Table of contents:
- The difference between dry sauna and wet sauna
- Dry sauna
- Wet sauna (steam or steam bath)
- Which one is right for you?
Today, you can find saunas in many places, such as spas, gyms and other wellness centers. You can see people inside the sauna dressed in towels and they look relaxed. Is it true that saunas have a good effect on health? What effect is there? What's the difference between a dry sauna and a wet sauna (steam bath)? Which one is right for you? After reading this article, you will know the answer!
The difference between dry sauna and wet sauna
Dry saunas and wet saunas (also known as steam or steam baths) are traditional types of spa treatments. Both dry sauna and steam, both have good health effects.
The fundamental difference lies in the type of heat provided and the resulting health effects. Dry saunas use dry heat, usually from hot rocks or a covered stove. Meanwhile, steam uses a generator filled with boiling water.
Dry sauna
Usually dry saunas use a room made of wood with benches. The dry heat from the sauna will soothe your nerve endings, as well as warm and relax the muscles, which will relieve tension from your body and minimize pain.
This is very beneficial for those who suffer from diseases such as arthritis or headaches (migraines). In addition, dry saunas can also have a relaxing effect on your body as well as relieve stress.
If you experience insomnia, a dry sauna can also help improve the quality of your sleep. This is because the heat from the sauna can help the body release endorphins, which then reduce the effect of stress on the body and can help you feel more relaxed and have good quality sleep.
Dry saunas are much hotter than steam rooms, which are around 70-100 degrees Celsius. However, you are likely to last as long in a dry sauna as in a wet sauna, which is slightly cooler. This is because the evaporation in the steam room (wet sauna) will make your body feel hotter even at a lower temperature.
The length of time in the dry sauna varies, depending on the type of treatment you are undergoing. However, the ideal is twenty to thirty minutes.
Wet sauna (steam or steam bath)
Wet sauna or steam room uses a generator to boil water into steam. The hot steam can help open up your respiratory tract. This can smoothen your respiratory system.
The wet heat (humidity) you get in a steam bath opens the mucous membranes in your body, reducing the pressure. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from respiratory disorders such as asthma and bronchitis, it also helps reduce sinusitis symptoms.
Apart from that, steam baths also increase metabolism and can help control weight. The sweat that results from the heat also helps flush out waste products from your body. This wet and humid heat can help people with acne problems by balancing oil production, although experts caution against staying in the steam room for too long as it can dehydrate the skin and body due to excessive sweating.
The temperature in the wet sauna is around 46-50 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the ideal length of time to undergo a steam bath treatment is around ten to fifteen minutes.
Which one is right for you?
The answer to this question depends on the health goals you want to achieve. You can take advantage of both, but it's best if you try on a different day.
Don't spend too long in the sauna as it can cause dehydration (lack of fluids), dizziness, and a racing heartbeat. Make sure you drink enough before, during, and after you take a steam bath or enjoy a dry sauna.
