Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Sauna Vs. Steam Room


Both saunas and steam rooms are considered to be hot baths, but which is better?
Saunas have very low humidity which can make them much hotter than steam rooms. Saunas are usually between 80 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius. Saunas are safe because dry heat is used. A steam room is usually about 40 degrees Celsius. If the steam room reaches any degrees hotter than 40 degrees Celsius its capable of scalding your skin. Saunas are heated with stones placed on a steamer vs. steam rooms that are heated by a steam generator. Both saunas and steam rooms have therapeutic benefits. Steam rooms tend to feel hotter because your sweat doesn't evaporate and carry away heat. If you have respiratory problems like sinus congestion or asthma you might like the moist heat of the steam room. Steam rooms are very effective against bronchitis, allergies, and sinusitis. A downside of the steam room is that it can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria because of the warm heat. If the steam room is properly cleaned this wont be of much concern. Both saunas and steam rooms have there pros and cons id suggest trying them both out and deciding which you like best!


2 comments:

  1. This is really interesting! I never knew there would be a difference between the two. I always thought that they were both practically the same.

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  2. I love going into both the Sauna and Steam Room! It is so relaxing! I think that I enjoy the Steam Room more because, like you said, it can help with congestion. I feel it open up my pores and it really does make a difference with my sinuses. Most importantly, whenever I walkout of it, I feel completely relaxed and rejuvenated!

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