Sauna vs. Steam

I've been receiving a lot of inquiries lately about the benefits of the sauna and steam room and what is actually the main difference. There aren't actually many differences between the two.. Basically, it just comes down to dry or wet. Saunas provide dry heat, while steam rooms provide moist heat. Figuring out which is right for you completely depends on your own personal preference. 

The sauna tends to be hotter as the temperature can reach 200 degrees F, as opposed to a steam room which ranges from around 110-120 degrees F. They both are great for the skin by opening up your pores, helping relax your muscles, and assisting with chest or sinus congestion.

However, there are many common myths when coming to either sitting in these steam rooms or sauna. When people think of these things, they think they are giving their body a "detox." So many people think they can sit in the sauna and just get rid of all the toxins they fill their body with on a daily basis... but this could not be more false. Also, thinking this is a quick way to lose weight. When in reality, the only weight being lost is water weight. Which is quickly replenished once you re-hydrate your body and then you will be back to where you began. 

It is shown though, that sweating in these high heat environments will allow your body to flush out excess salts. So if you are feeling bloated from a weekend of high sodium food intake, the sweating caused by sitting in the sauna or steam room can help release those excess salts stored in your blood plasma. 

Although excess salts can be released from body, there is no clear evidence to support claims that the sauna or steam room will provide true detoxifying effects. There is no way for the heat to draw out toxins from your organs through the skin. On the other hand, there is an increased calorie burn from sitting in these environments because when you are sitting in these high heat environments, your heart rate will rise, which leads to an increased calorie burn. But, this is not a fix to weight loss, you will only reap the benefits if you are also partaking in a consistent exercise program. However, what it will do is help you relax, may help clear your skin by opening your pores, and loosen tight muscles after an intense workout. The heat will lower your pulse and blood pressure which can help fight the effects of stress. 

Since saunas cause you to sweat, your pores open up, leading to a temporary cleansing of the skin. The heat dilates your blood vessels, increasing blood flow by about 100 percent after 10 or 15 minutes. This then gives your skin a healthy, glowing appearance.

Performing stretching exercises in the sauna can provide great benefits in releasing painful muscle tension and can help soothe that lactic acid build up.

Also note, you should not exceed sitting in these environments for over 20 minutes and you should be extremely hydrated. Make sure you drink at least 2-4 glasses of water prior to sitting in a sauna or steam room to minimize the effects of overheating or dehydration. And, if you are someone who suffers with asthma or rheumatoid arthritis, the sauna would be a better option as the most air in a steam room can trigger negative side effects.