Difference Between Sauna and Steam Room: Which One is Better for You?
When looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, two options pop up – the sauna and steam room. While both of these facilities have long been known to promote detoxification, aid in relaxation and improve overall health, there are some basic differences between the two. Let’s understand these differences to determine which facility is better for you.
The Temperature
The most obvious difference between a sauna and steam room is the level of heat. Saunas are typically kept at a higher temperature of around 80C – 100C, while steam rooms have a lower temperature of around 40C – 50C. The high temperature of the sauna makes you sweat and opens up your pores, while the steam room can clear your sinuses and hydrate your skin.
The Humidity
Another basic difference between the two is the level of humidity. Saunas have a lower humidity level, around 5% to 30%, while steam rooms have a higher humidity level of about 100%. If you have a preference for dry heat, the sauna might be perfect for you. However, if you want a more humid experience, the steam room is ideal.
The Health Benefits
Both sauna and steam room have numerous health benefits. Saunas have been known to reduce stress, improve heart health, and relieve muscle pain. A sauna increases your heart rate, which not only promotes cardiovascular health but also strengthens your immune system. Steam rooms, on the other hand, are helpful in reducing respiratory symptoms, treating dry skin and easing joint pain.
Which One is Better?
It really depends on the type of experience you want. If you like dry heat, a sauna is perfect for you. However, if you are looking for a more humid environment that can help with respiratory symptoms or dry skin, a steam room might be better. Ultimately, try both and decide which one suits you better.
In conclusion, one should know the differences between a sauna and a steam room to be able to make a better decision about which one is ideal for their needs. Whether you are looking for a relaxation session or a full-body detox, both the sauna and steam room can provide you with numerous health benefits. So, choose according to your preferences and enjoy your relaxation session.
Table difference between sauna and steam room
| Feature | Sauna | Steam Room |
|---|---|---|
| Heat source | Dry heat from hot stones or electric heaters | Humid heat from steam generators |
| Temperature | Typically between 160-190°F | Typically between 100-120°F |
| Humidity | Low humidity, typically less than 20% | High humidity, typically between 100-125% |
| Benefits | Relieves muscle tension, improves circulation, detoxifies the body, improves skin health | Relieves respiratory issues, improves skin health, detoxifies the body, improves joint flexibility |
| Precautions | May not be suitable for people with heart conditions or high blood pressure, may cause dehydration | May not be suitable for people with respiratory issues, may cause dehydration |