Choosing your Oasis: Saunas vs Steam Rooms

Have you decided to treat yourself to your very own home oasis in the form of a sauna or steam room?

If so, congratulations, when it comes to relaxation and recovery nothing comes close to their cosy warmth. The wellness benefits of both these glorious experiences are truly outstanding and there is no better place to chill out (excuse the pun) after a long day at work.

Both steam rooms and saunas share a number of similar characteristics and are regularly confused by punters.

They are both often available at your local luxury gym, both rely on heat to create a healing and relaxing environment, and both are fantastic additions to any home.

Whilst they are similar in many ways, INCA saunas and INCA steam rooms are very different experiences. In this article we will uncover the intriguing differences between the two and help you to make a more informed decision. At the end of the day, it will come down to personal preference and what you’re the wellness benefits you are looking to achieve.

sauna bath

What are the biggest differences between saunas and steam rooms?

Temperature and humidity

Whilst both saunas and steam rooms generate heat, the type of heat they generate is very different and this is one of the biggest things that separates the two.

Saunas are extremely dry environments, heated to a high temperature of 70-90 degrees Celsius and with a humidity level as close to zero as possible. On the other hand, steam rooms are traditionally heated to a much lower but still sweltering 40-50 degrees. Steam rooms, however, are kept at an extremely high humidity level, as close to 100% as possible, making the environment feel a lot hotter than it is.

The moment you step inside the paradise of a steam room, moisture will begin to form on the skin, given your skin a stunning gleam that can’t quite be replicated anywhere else. Saunas in comparison work by causing your pores to open up as a result of blood vessel dilation caused by high temperature exposure.

Both these options are fantastic for the health and choosing the right one for you will simply come down to which type of heat you find more enjoyable and relaxing.

Health goals

Saunas are prized for the cardiovascular benefits they provide, increasing your heart rate and improving circulation. If you suffer from high blood pressure you may get some relief from using a sauna. Sauna’s are also often used by keen gym-goers to aid recovery by promoting blood flow to damaged muscles.

Steam rooms are fantastic for helping with respiratory issues, with steam inhalation being one of the best ways to ease congestion. If you suffer from allergies, asthma or other breathing problems, a steam room could provide you with welcome symptomatic relief. Make sure to consult with a doctor before you use a steam room or a sauna to treat a medical condition however, to ensure that it is safe to do so.