Sauna and steam room

The temperatures that are reached, both in a sauna and in a steam bath, are high. The big difference is the degree of humidity and the type of construction.

The sauna

• In the heat and the environment is dry.
• The achievable temperature exceeds 90ºC.
• It is a warm structure made of wood.
• The user can sit or stretch out on wooden benches.

Steam baths

• High degree of humidity.
• The temperature does not usually exceed 50-70ºC although it may not seem so since the humidity reaches 100%.
• It is a cold structure with tiles, mosaic or stone.
• The user can sit or stretch out on benches built into the space.

The choice between a sauna or a steam room will depend on the preferences of each. There are those who are overwhelmed by humidity and prefer the dryness of the sauna and, on the contrary, there are those who prefer to feel the humidity on their skin.

Different benefits

Both the sauna and the steam bath are very beneficial for health since they manage to relax the user, among many other positive aspects.

• The first thing a person notices when entering a sauna is the temperature increase that causes perspiration. By perspiring, toxin cleansing is carried out and waste products are eliminated through the pores of the skin.
• In addition, the dry heat acts as an anti-inflammatory perfect for muscle and joint discomfort. Those who suffer from joint and rheumatological alterations feel relief by doing therapeutic sessions in the sauna.
• On the other hand, the heart rate increases approximately 30% so the heart distributes more blood to the body, to a greater extent towards the skin.
• Regarding the blood pressure, this can decrease or increase depending on each individual. For this reason, it is recommended that people with altered blood pressure or heart problems consult their doctor before using the sauna. Pregnant women are also included in this assumption.
• However, the steam room gives off moist heat, very positive effect for those with respiratory problems, bronchitis or allergies. The humidity of the steam bath is of great help to improve the alterations that these pathologies present.
• In addition, moist heat is also useful as a therapy for respiratory conditions and, if combined with, the benefit is even greater as clear the airways by being able to eliminate the mucus that may exist by facilitating its elimination by increasing fluidization.

Use tips

Before going to a sauna or steam room, it is advisable to take a look at the advice for use.

• Avoid the alcohol consumption or medication before entering a sauna or steam room.
• Hydrate good (between 2-4 glasses of water when leaving).
• Consult your doctor in case of doubt or if you experience a strange sensation.
• Get a shower before entering the sauna.
• Use a towel as a hygienic habit but without preventing the piece from properly preventing sweating.
• Sit on the intermediate or superior banks with the legs at the same height so that the extremities reach the same temperature.
• Perform the repeats of cycles in the case of saunas, that is, go out to cool down after having been between 5-10 ′ inside, before breaking in a sweat again. Carrying out one or two cycles is what is recommended on a regular basis.
• Use flip flops in steam rooms since they are not always places free of fungi and bacteria due to difficulty in cleaning them.

• The use of saunas or steam rooms is very healthy but should not be done lightly. Some indications must be followed.
• There are many health, beauty and wellness benefits that saunas and steam rooms provide.
• Following some habits and tips for use before and during use will allow you to obtain more benefits from the session.