What’s the difference?! A simple guide to infrared saunas, red light therapy & near infrared light

If you’re new to Gaia Wellness & Recovery, you might be wondering what all this talk about infrared saunas, red light therapy, and near-infrared light is really about. And, more importantly - what’s the difference between them?

You’re not alone! These therapies all use light and heat to support your health and recovery, but they work in different ways. Let’s break it down so you can choose the best option for you.

Infrared saunas vs. traditional saunas: What’s the difference?

Traditional saunas work by heating the air around you, which then warms your body. This type of sauna gets really hot, usually between 70–90°C, making you sweat heavily. While great for relaxation and detoxification, some people find them a bit too intense or struggle to stay in for long.

Infrared saunas, like the Nu—A Infrared Sauna at Gaia, work differently. Instead of heating the air, infrared wavelengths penetrate deep into your body, warming you from the inside out. This means you get a more comfortable, gentler heat (55°C) while still sweating out toxins, improving circulation, and supporting muscle recovery. Bonus: Infrared saunas are also great for skin health and can help with conditions like eczema.

🚿 At Gaia, you’ll have a private room for 45 minutes, plus a shower, toiletries, and towels, so you can leave feeling completely refreshed.

Which one is better?

If you love the steamy, intense heat of a traditional sauna, go for it! But if you want a gentler, more effective detox that goes deeper into your muscles and joints, infrared is the way to go.

Red light therapy vs. infrared sauna

Both red light therapy and infrared saunas use light waves, but they work in completely different ways.

Red Light Therapy at Gaia uses red and near-infrared wavelengths to stimulate cellular function. This helps with muscle recovery, reducing inflammation, improving skin health, and boosting energy. Sessions are short, just 20 minutes, and provide a gentle warmth.

Our Red Light Pod offers a fully immersive, lie-down experience for deep relaxation, while the Red Light Panel allows for standing, movement, and targeted recovery, making it ideal for enhancing circulation and muscle relief.

Infrared Saunas, on the other hand, focus on deep heat therapy, helping to relax muscles, improve circulation, and promote sweating for detoxification.

Which one is better?

It depends on what you need! If you’re looking for deep relaxation, sweating, and detoxing, an infrared sauna is your best bet. If you want to support recovery, boost energy, and improve skin health without heat, book red light therapy.

🌟 Want the best of both? Many people love doing contrast therapy (infrared sauna and ice bath) session first, then finishing with red light therapy for a full recovery experience.

Near infrared vs. infrared: What’s the deal?

This is where things can get a little confusing, so let’s keep it simple:

Near-infrared light (found in red light therapy) and infrared light (used in infrared saunas) are not the same thing.

🔴 Near Infrared Light (NIR) (in Red Light Therapy)

• Used in red light panels and pods

• Penetrates deep into the skin and muscles to promote healing

• Boosts cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and enhances recovery

🔥 Infrared Light (in Infrared Saunas)

• Heats the body from the inside out

• Helps with detoxification, relaxation, and circulation

• Supports muscle recovery and stress relief

Which one is better?

Both are great! If you want a deep heat therapy experience, go for an infrared sauna. If you’re more interested in skin, muscle, and energy benefits, red light therapy with near-infrared light is the better option.

So, which therapy should you choose?

It depends on your goals:

✔ Need a deep sweat & detox? Infrared Sauna

✔ Want to reduce inflammation & boost recovery? Red Light Therapy

✔ Love a full wellness experience? Try both!

At Gaia Wellness & Recovery, all our therapies are designed to work together, so you can create a routine that fits your needs. Whether you’re trying red light therapy, sweating it out in an infrared sauna, or combining both for the ultimate wellness session, we’re here to help you feel your best.

Ready to try it for yourself? Book a session today.