Sauna or Steam Room: Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes to choosing between a steam room vs sauna, it can take time to know which one is right for you. They both have benefits, depending on what you're looking for. In this post, we'll explore the differences between saunas and steam rooms so that you can decide which is right for you. We'll also provide tips on getting the most out of either experience. So let's start with an introduction and the benefits of each of these.

Sauna: Meaning and Benefits

A sauna is a warm room where you can stay in the heat for a while. It has been used as an ancient therapy to relieve stress and improve health. Modern saunas have become popular in recent years, and their use as a health spa or treatment has increased. There are several different types of sauna, each with its benefits.  In fact, you can also enjoy a sauna in your home since the cost of installing a sauna and operating it is far less in the long run. The experience is relaxing and soothing and can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase circulation.

Benefits

​Increased blood flow. One of the biggest steam sauna benefits is that your blood vessels widen as your body temperature rises inside a sauna. And this is true for both a traditional sauna room as well as a portable capsule. Also,  blood pressure also rises in the sauna.  When all of these things work together, it means your circulation will improve. Circulating more nutrient-rich blood from the core to the periphery and back again may provide additional health benefits. It's usually a good idea to get the blood pumping around the body more often.

Quicker recovery after an intense workout. Those who workout frequently or intensely may reap additional benefits from using an infrared sauna. Because infrared light used in infrared saunas may reach deep into muscle tissue, it has the potential to speed up cellular repair and regeneration. Therefore, after a strenuous workout, when your muscles are tired all over, an infrared sauna may be precisely what the doctor ordered.

Time spent unwinding and calming the mind. Infrared saunas are preferable to steam rooms since you can stay in them longer than the standard 15 minutes. Extra heat and comforting sensations can have a profound effect on certain people. Along with the aforementioned physical benefits, saunas may also help with mental wellness. Saunas may be ideal for meditating by yourself or with a guide.
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Detoxification through sweat. The low humidity in saunas has been hypothesized to cause a cleansing sweat that helps to open up pores and flush the body of impurities.

​You might also want to read: Top 8 Steam Sauna Trends You Shouldn’t Miss In 2022

Steam Room: Meaning and Benefits

While both steam rooms and saunas work by warming their users with dry heat, steam rooms use moist heat from steam, making them more similar to baths than to saunas. Traditional steam rooms use a steam generator that boils water to produce steam, and as a result, the steam room becomes a hot and humid place to be. On the other hand, some steam rooms have boiling water poured over heated stones to produce steam and a distinctive aroma. Even yet, the average temperature inside a steam chamber is between 100 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

Benefits

​To spend 15 minutes in a steam room is similar to spending time in a sauna in terms of relaxation and comfort, but the experience is unique. The following are some of the steam room benefits:

Reduced congestion. When compared to a sauna, a steam room is more effective at relieving stuffy noses and other nasal congestion. Inhaling steam has the dual benefits of lubricating the upper respiratory tract and opening up the sinuses. Simply put, this indicates that your nasal passageways are unblocked, which may make your congestion disappear. This is especially so because some steam rooms boost the soothing effects of the steam by adding eucalyptus oil or other essential oils to the water.

Reducing stress and easing tense muscles. Naturally, the heat will aid in relaxing your muscles and dilating your blood vessels. Some users find steam rooms incredibly relaxing, especially those that incorporate essential oils, and they look forward to visiting them weekly.

Enhanced blood flow. Steam rooms' moist heat can potentially improve circulation all over the body. Also, as mentioned in the section on the advantages of saunas, this may have a secondary advantage of increasing the circulation of oxygenated blood to the brain and other critical regions of the body.

Things to Consider When Choosing Between a Sauna or Steam Room

When it comes to saunas and steam rooms, there are pros and cons to each option. So, how do you choose between a sauna or a steam room?

Well, whether it's a sauna or steam room, here are some things to consider when making your decision:

-Heat control: Saunas can be heated with electric heaters, wood-burning stoves, or infrared panels. This allows you to control the level of heat you're exposed to during your session. Some people prefer saunas because they find the dry heat less irritating to their skin than steam rooms.

-The temperature: While sauna and steam rooms both are humid, saunas are typically hotter than steam rooms. A sauna is the way to go if you're looking for a more intense heat experience. However, if you're not a fan of scorching temperatures, then a steam room might be more your speed.

-The humidity: Steam rooms are much more humid than saunas. If you have respiratory issues or are just looking for a less drying experience, then a steam room is probably the better option. However, if you don't mind low humidity, then a sauna could be just what you're looking for.

-Time commitment: Saunas typically require a longer time commitment than steam rooms. If you're short on time or just want a quick heat fix, then a steam room is probably your best bet. However, a sauna could be perfect for you if you want an extended relaxation experience.

-Expenses: Saunas tend to be less expensive to operate than steam rooms since they don't require as much water. A sauna may be the way to go if you're looking for an affordable option.

So, which one should you choose? It really depends on your personal preferences and needs. Consider the factors above and make your decision based on what will provide you with the best experience.

How to use a sauna or steam room
When using a steam room or sauna first monitoring your body temperature and second staying hydrated is important. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or fruit juice, and take breaks as needed to cool down.

Saunas are typically hotter than steam rooms, so it is important to start slowly and work your way up to the temperature that is comfortable for you. Steam rooms tend to be more humid than saunas, so it is important to limit your time if you start to feel lightheaded or dizzy.

Both saunas and steam rooms can benefit your health, so choose the one that feels best for you and enjoy!

Curious what’s the difference between sauna and steam room?

You can read our blog - Saunas vs. Steam Rooms: Everything You Need to Know.

So, which one is better - A Sauna or Steam Room?
When it comes to physical health, both steam room benefits and steam sauna benefits are quite similar. On the other hand, most people like saunas over steam rooms because the former offer more benefits and may be enjoyed for a longer period. For instance, a lot of people choose sauna when deciding between sauna or steam room for cold.

Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a "better" heated room. What you get out of a session in a sauna or steam room relies on personal preference and intended use. Ask a spa or wellness expert, like those working at Next Health, what you may expect to get out of a sauna bath or steam room session if you aren't sure what you're looking for.

Conclusion
The main difference between a steam room vs sauna is the temperature, which is hotter in a sauna. Both can benefit your health, but choosing the one that's right for you is important. If you have health concerns, speak to your doctor before using a sauna or steam room.
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Regardless of your choice, whether it's sauna or steam room, Steam and Sauna Experts is
your go-to solution for any steam sauna needs. With more than a decade's expertise in providing top-notch steam sauna bath services, we aim to provide you with a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. Having served thousands of happy clients, we aim to build our base and become an international brand. So, for any of your steam and sauna needs, feel free to hop on a call with our client support team.