Sauna vs Steam Room: Which Is Better For Your Health?

Both saunas and steam rooms provide distinct health benefits primarily due to their heat sources: saunas use dry heat, while steam rooms offer moist heat. Both improve circulation and relieve congestion, but personal preference and health goals will determine which is best for you. Understanding their differences can help you tailor your wellness routine.

Which steam room or sauna has more health benefits? Read on.

Sauna vs Steam Room: What Are Key Differences?

The difference between saunas and steam rooms is the heat source. Saunas rely on dry heat from rocks, wood-burning stoves, or electric heaters. On the other hand, steam rooms use moist heat by boiling water and releasing steam. This distinction in heat source affects customer experience differently. 

So, which steam room or sauna is better for you? Read on for more distinctive characteristics between the two:

Temperature Comfort

A sauna typically has a temperature of 150 to 200°F and a humidity of 10%. You will feel hot and sweat profusely, and your skin temperature will elevate while your heart rate increases.

Meanwhile, a steam room has a temperature of around 110°F and 100% humidity. Inside a steam room, your body releases endorphins, making you feel good. Moreover, steam rooms provide a refreshing environment due to the low heat levels, making the experience more comfortable and relaxing.

Health Benefits

Saunas have gained popularity in daily life due to their numerous health advantages. However, steam rooms are becoming increasingly popular as well. They not only offer various health benefits but also provide a more enjoyable experience thanks to their high humidity, which makes the sessions more comfortable.  

Steam room vs sauna benefits will depend on personal choice and health goals, as each offers unique effects on overall well-being. Continue reading to learn more about steam room health benefits:

Benefits of Steam Rooms for Health

• Respiratory system benefits: steam room benefits include clearing congestion in the respiratory system and opening up airways with the help of moist heat, which is beneficial to people with allergies or asthma

• Skin Hydration: The moist heat coming from steam rooms helps open pores and hydrate the skin, facilitating detoxification and enhancing skin health

• Relaxation: Similar to saunas, steam rooms help people relax by lowering stress and enhancing their mental state

• Joint and muscle relief: Conditions like arthritis or muscular stiffness can be relieved by the moist heat of the steam room, which helps relax aching muscles and joints

Benefits of Sauna for Health

• Better circulation: Saunas can enhance blood flow and dilate blood vessels, both of which are beneficial for cardiovascular health

• Detoxification: Sweating in a sauna helps with the skin's removal of pollutants and poisons

• Muscle relaxation: Saunas can ease tense muscles and encourage relaxation, which may lessen stress and pain

• Respiratory system benefits: Although saunas only deliver dry heat, some people feel that the warm air helps ease symptoms such as nasal congestion or asthma

Versatility 

Traditional saunas are expensive and require extensive labor as they involve connecting plumbing, placing drainage systems, and other complicated setups.

On the other hand, modern steam rooms are pre-made, and all the parts are made to be easily installed anywhere at home without professional help. 

The said steam room features are found in Geyser’s steam room. It is portable, allowing you to use it indoors, outdoors, on your patio, or in your backyard, wherever there is space. And no plumbing or permit. Just plug it to work! Adding to these units are mold-resistant and easy-to-clean features. 

Risk & Limits

Despite the fact that there are many health benefits of steam room and sauna, research found that there is a correlation between dehydration or heat exhaustion and over usage of traditional saunas

According to the American Heart Association, exposure to extreme heat can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially straining the heart, especially for those with pre-existing heart conditions. 

Both steam rooms and saunas offer various health benefits, however, steam rooms are more relaxing and comfortable; opt for a steam room, one like Beppu® that is portable, easy to clean, and ready to use!

Is the steam room or sauna better for weight loss?

Both the sauna and steam room can help in weight loss, but neither is superior. Experimenting with both can support your goals, although neither provides quick results. Achieving your desired physique takes time and effort, along with a consistent exercise routine. Sweat in both settings can temporarily reduce water weight, helping you appear slimmer, but it doesn't equate to actual fat loss.

Is a Steam Room or Sauna Good for Cold?

Saunas and steam rooms can help alleviate cold symptoms by clearing nasal blockages and promoting relaxation, but they offer different benefits. Saunas improve the immune system, boost circulation, and enhance sleep. In contrast, steam rooms target chest congestion and reduce inflammation.

Is a Steam Room or Sauna Good for Back pain?

Because of the high heat generated, saunas are used to treat back pain and stiff joints. Research from the Arthritis Foundation has indicated that heat is particularly effective in helping persons with arthritis loosen up tight joints and relieve achy muscles.

Is a sauna or steam room better for the skin?

Steam rooms are better for the skin because of the 100% humidity of the environment, which hydrates and rejuvenates the skin by promoting moisture. 

Is a sauna or steam room better for removing toxins?

Steam rooms are better for removing toxins. Saunas are often known for effective detoxification since the high temperature induces sweating that flushes toxins out of the body. 

Is a sauna or steam room good for the lungs?

Steam rooms are much more beneficial for lung health due to the humid air that helps in clearing congestion. Although saunas can help with better breathing by relaxing the airways, steam rooms provide immediate relief and better lung function.

Do you sweat more in a sauna or steam room?

You tend to sweat more in saunas due to the high temperatures. Dry heat promotes more sweat compared to steam rooms, which are much cooler because they create a humid environment.

Is it better to go in the steam room or sauna after a workout?

It would be best to go for a steam room if you want to relax and enjoy a “cooler” environment after working out. The humidity will not only hydrate your skin but it will also keep you relaxed. Depending on your preference, if you want to keep increased heart rate after exercise and a dry surrounding, then opt for a sauna. 

Steam Room vs Traditional Sauna: What Should You Go For?

Choosing between a steam room and a traditional sauna will most likely depend on your preferred environment to relax in. But getting a Fly Geyser 2-person steam room will guarantee you two things:

• Breathing Comfort: Unlike the harsher dry heat of a sauna, the moist air in a Fly Geyser at-home steam room is kinder to the respiratory system, making it an excellent option for people who are sensitive to dry air.

• Gentle vs. Intense: The Fly Geyser steam room is ideal for relaxation and skin hydration because of its lower temperature and increased moisture content, which make it feel softer and more calming. For people who want a strong, energizing sensation, a sauna offers a more powerful heat.

Both options are excellent, but the Fly Geyser offers more health benefits, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues, muscle pain, or those simply seeking greater relaxation. 

If you're amazed by the wonderful effects of a steam room, consider building one in your home as a budget-friendly option to enjoy these benefits. Read this article for a comprehensive guide on how to build a steam room yourself!

It is also the best home spa option due to its portability and ease of use! To find out how the Fly Geyser 2-person steam room can change your wellness plan, contact us!