The ultimate effect of dry saunas and steam rooms is much the same. Both make you hot, induce sweating and increased heart rate. But there are sufficient differences to make people ask which is better in a contest of sauna vs steam room. The effect of breathing dry sauna air or wet steam is very different for the respiratory system and the moisture effects skin very differently too. This blog aims to look at the sauna v steam room.
Steam rooms create very good respiratory conditions with the humidity level at 100%. People with coughs and lung problems sometimes use a steam room to soothe their respiratory systems. Steam rooms are also more hydrating for your skin than saunas. This is great for people with dry skin, who might suffer in a dry sauna.
Some people find steam rooms stifling though and think that the humid air is difficult to breathe. Steam rooms have a mystic quality, with the air shrouded in steam, while saunas are clean and clear enough so that you could read a book if you wanted. If you have greasy skin you might find that a dry sauna is better, because your pores may get blocked by moisture if you stay in the steam room too long.
When it comes to sauna vs steam rooms, both increase circulation to the surface of the skin and make you sweat, which can be a pleasant sensation and has proven benefits for cardiovascular health. Both can also promote a healthy and deep sleep.
Some other benefits that you can only get from a steam room include:-
clearing of throat, sinus and lung congestion,
relief of dry throat and nasal passages and
relief from the discomfort of sinusitis.
If your only intention is to sweat as much as possible then consider that some people believe that you sweat more in a dry sauna, so perhaps that would be the better choice.
Finding it difficult to choose one or the other, then just alternate between the two. Within the Thermal Spa Experience, at each of the Spa Experience by Better locations you are free to use both scented steam rooms and dry saunas. At most of the locations you'll find either a refreshing monsoon shower or cold plunge pool to enhance your sauna and steam experience.
So when it comes to sauna vs steam rooms, you really have to decide which is better yourself, based on your respiratory health, skin type and personal preferences.
Looking to book a Thermal Spa Experience today? We've locations UK wide with prices from as little as £6 a session.