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What each wavelength actually does to your body
The difference between far infrared and full spectrum comes down to which infrared wavelengths the heaters emit — and each does something different.
What each infrared wavelength does. Full spectrum saunas emit all three; far infrared saunas emit FIR only.
| Wavelength | Range | Primary effects |
| Near infrared (NIR) | 0.7–1.4 μm | Cellular repair, collagen production, skin rejuvenation |
| Mid infrared (MIR) | 1.4–3 μm | Joint and soft-tissue penetration, circulation, pain relief |
| Far infrared (FIR) | 3–1000 μm | Deep tissue heat, core temperature rise, detox, cardiovascular |
Far infrared saunas emit FIR only — typically 5–15 μm, the range most studied for cardiovascular and metabolic benefits.
Full spectrum saunas emit all three — NIR, MIR, and FIR — usually via a combination of carbon panel and ceramic heaters, so you get the full therapeutic range in a single session.
Important: most infrared sauna health research references far infrared specifically. The NIR and MIR benefits of full spectrum are supported by separate bodies of evidence (photobiomodulation research, physical-therapy literature). Both are legitimate — they’re just different mechanisms.
Side-by-side: far infrared vs. full spectrum
Far infrared vs. full spectrum at a glance (Canadian market, mid-2026).
[comparison]
| Far infrared The proven core |
Full spectrum FIR + NIR + MIR |
|
| Wavelengths | FIR only | NIR + MIR + FIR |
| Typical temp range | 110–140 °F | 120–150 °F |
| Heat feel | Gentle, even | Slightly more intense |
| Best for | Daily wellness, stress, sleep, cardio | Recovery, skin, joints + all FIR benefits |
| Price range (Canada) | $1,500–$4,000 | $2,500–$6,000+ |
| EMF consideration | Same — depends on heater quality, not wavelength type | Same — depends on heater quality, not wavelength type |
| Research backing | Strong (FIR specifically) | Strong (FIR) + emerging (NIR/MIR) |
Who should buy which
[cards]
Choose far infrared if:
- Your budget is under $2,500
- You want daily use for stress, sleep quality, and general recovery
- You’ve never owned a sauna and want to start with the proven option
- You’re primarily drawn to the cardiovascular and metabolic research
Choose full spectrum if:
- You want a single unit that covers the widest therapeutic range
- You’re serious about skin health and cellular repair (NIR is the key)
- You have joint issues, chronic muscle tension, or do high-intensity training
- You’re buying once and want room to grow your wellness practice
“For most Canadians buying a home sauna for the first time, a well-built full spectrum unit in the $2,500–$3,500 range is the better long-term investment — you’re not paying for features you won’t use, and you’re not leaving therapeutic range on the table.”
— Nordik Product Specialist, Montreal
The Nordik Recovery full spectrum sauna
The 2-Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna is built for daily Canadian home use:
- Full spectrum heaters: carbon + ceramic combination for NIR, MIR, and FIR coverage
- Low-EMF panels: independently tested — under 3 mG at body distance
- Canadian hemlock construction: dense, warp-resistant, odour-neutral
- 120V compatible: standard outlet — no electrician needed
- Ships across Canada: free delivery, Canadian warranty
Full spectrum saunas combine carbon and ceramic heaters to emit NIR, MIR, and FIR.