What Is an Infrared Sauna? The Principle Behind the Gentle Heat
An infrared sauna works fundamentally differently from a traditional Finnish sauna. Where a Finnish sauna heats the air around you to 80-100°C, an infrared sauna uses infrared radiation to warm your body directly from the inside — without making the air extremely hot.
The cabin temperature in an infrared sauna typically ranges between 40-60°C, considerably lower than a Finnish sauna. Yet you sweat just as much, because the infrared waves penetrate 3-4 centimetres deep into your skin and tissues. This creates an intensive but comfortable warmth experience that many people find more pleasant than traditional sauna heat.
At Sauna Delizia, we offer infrared saunas in several suites, including Arabian Night and Zen Gold, so you can combine this gentle warmth with our other premium facilities.
How Does Infrared Radiation Work?
The Science Explained
Infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy — just like visible light, but with a longer wavelength that we can't see but feel as warmth. It's the same type of radiation the sun emits.
Three types of infrared:
Near-infrared (NIR: 700-1400 nm)
Mid-infrared (MIR: 1400-3000 nm)
Far-infrared (FIR: 3000-10000 nm)
Most infrared saunas, including those at Sauna Delizia, use far-infrared or a combination of all three for the most complete experience.
Health Benefits of Infrared Sauna
1. Effective Pain Relief
One of the best-researched benefits. Infrared warmth penetrates deep into muscles, joints and connective tissue:
A study in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology showed regular infrared sauna sessions reduced pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients by an average of 40% after 4 weeks.
2. Deep Detoxification
Infrared sweat contains a higher percentage of toxins — up to 20% heavy metals, pesticides and other toxins, versus just 3-5% in conventional saunas. The deeper penetration mobilises toxins stored in fat tissue.
3. Cardiovascular Health
Regular use has measurable benefits: blood pressure drops by 5-10 mmHg, heart rate variability improves, blood vessel function improves. A University of Eastern Finland study following 2,315 men over 20 years concluded regular sauna users had a 40% lower risk of heart attack or stroke.
4. Skin Improvement
Infrared warmth stimulates collagen production and improves skin circulation: radiant youthful appearance, reduced wrinkles, improved texture, faster healing. Use Delizia Skincare products afterwards for optimal care.
5. Weight Management
A 30-minute session can burn 300-600 calories through increased heart rate and perspiration energy expenditure.
6. Better Sleep
The gentle warmth helps regulate your circadian rhythm, mimicking the natural sleep signal for faster, deeper sleep.
7. Boosted Immune System
Regular sessions stimulate white blood cell production and create a temporary artificial "fever" that helps fight pathogens.
Infrared vs Finnish Sauna: Which to Choose?
| Feature | Infrared Sauna | Finnish Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 40-60°C | 80-100°C |
| Heat source | Infrared radiation | Heated air (via stones) |
| Penetration depth | 3-4 cm into tissue | Surface (skin) |
| Warm-up time | 10-15 minutes | 30-45 minutes |
| Session length | 20-40 minutes | 10-20 minutes |
| Sweat composition | 80% water, 20% toxins | 97% water, 3% toxins |
| Best for | Pain relief, detox | Cardiovascular, mental reset |
| Available at Delizia | Arabian Night, Zen Gold | All suites |
Best of Both Worlds
At Sauna Delizia, you don't have to choose. Combine both experiences — start with gentle infrared warmth, alternate with the pool or jacuzzi, and finish with a Finnish sauna session.
Infrared Sauna at Sauna Delizia
Arabian Night — Infrared in Oriental Style
The Arabian Night suite offers an infrared sauna integrated into a complete oriental wellness concept with hammam, heated pool and jacuzzi.
Zen Gold — Intimate Infrared Experience
Zen Gold offers a compact but premium infrared sauna, ideal for couples who prefer gentle warmth. Includes private jacuzzi and terrace.
Combine with Massage
The gentle warmth makes muscles especially receptive to massage. Book a session afterwards for maximum effect. Popular combinations: Hot Stone, Sports Massage, Aroma Oil.
Tips for Optimal Use
Before: Hydrate well (500ml+), no creams/lotions, light meal
During: Start with 15-20 minutes, change positions regularly, listen to your body
After: Lukewarm shower, hydrate (500ml+), rest 10-15 minutes, apply moisturiser
FAQ
Is infrared radiation safe?
Yes. It's a natural form of heat energy — the same warmth from the sun, without harmful UV radiation. Safely used in healthcare for decades.
How often can I use it?
2-3 times per week is ideal. During your booking at Sauna Delizia, alternate freely between facilities.
Is it suitable during pregnancy?
Always consult your doctor. Generally advised to avoid sauna visits during the first trimester.
Can I combine it with a Finnish sauna?
Absolutely — and we even recommend it! The combination offers the best of both worlds.
Discover Infrared Sauna at Sauna Delizia
Infrared sauna is the most accessible and versatile sauna form. Whether you're seeking pain relief, detox, skin improvement or simply deep relaxation — the gentle warmth delivers results you can feel.
Check our suites, choose the experience that suits you and book today. Combine with a package or massage for the ultimate wellness day.
