Is Steam Sauna Good for You? Yes, using steam saunas as part of your wellness routine can be incredibly beneficial to your physical and mental wellness.
The high humidity and moist heat can help to improve circulation, promote skin health, aid in the recovery of workouts and provide relief from respiratory congestion.
However, keeping hydrated and limiting the time spent in the sessions is extremely important to avoid possible risks such as dehydration or overheating. Stepping onto a cloud of warm and enveloping mist is like giving your soul a big hug. But aside from the immediate relaxation, you may be wondering as to the actual health impact.
Is this ancient practice of steam bathing merely a luxury or is there something more to it, something that tangibly improves one’s health? Whether you are seeking to get a better complexion, recover after a gym session or just seeking to unwind, we are diving deep into the world of steam therapy to answer all your burning questions.
Key Takeaways
- Respiratory Relief: The moist heat is great for opening up the sinuses and calming irritation in the lungs.
- Skin Glow: Steam opens up the pores and helps to hydrate the skin, thus it’s a natural beauty treatment.
- Post-Workout Recovery: It helps to reduce muscle tension and it can improve the flexibility.
- Not A Weight Loss Miracle: Though you may lose water weight, it’s not fat loss-it is just temporary.
- Safety First: Hydration is key; keep sessions down to 15-20 minutes to avoid feeling dizzy or dehydrated.
What Does a Steam Sauna Do to Your Body?
When you get into a steam room, your body responds to this high humidity (100%) and moderate heat. Unlike in a dry sauna, the moisture in a steam room means that your sweat does not evaporate. This causes your internal body temperature to rise faster, and triggers a “hormetic stress” response.
Is sauna and steam room good for you in this state? Yes – this process makes your heart work harder, leading to better circulation and simulating some of the effects of light exercise. It also causes the release of endorphins, which is why you have that “post-steam glow.”
Is Steam Sauna Good for Your Skin?
One of the commonest questions is: is steam sauna good for your skin? The answer is a resounding yes but with a few caveats.
The humid heat does a deep cleanse that no soap is capable of imparting. It opens up your pores allowing trapped dirt and sebum to just be rinsed off by the condensation.
- Hydration: For the people who are wondering which is better for skin, sauna or steam room, steam rooms would generally win for dry skin types as it provides external moisture.
- Anti-Aging: Regular use can increase skin elasticity and “radiance” by increasing blood flow to the skin’s surface.
Is Sauna and Steam Room Good for your Hair?
This is a tricky one. The answer is: It depends on the type of your hair.
- The Good: The moisture can moisturize dry, brittle hair. It opens the hair cuticles thus enabling conditioning treatments to penetrate deep into the hair.
- The Bad: The intense humidity can cause the frizz to people with curly or fine hair. Also, the scalp sometimes is irritated with excessive sweat if it is not washed in a timely manner.
- Expert Tip: Put hair oil or conditioner into your hair before getting in. Treat it as you would a hot oil treatment!
Is Sauna and Steam Room Good for You When You Have a Cold?
Generally, yes. The steam can help to relieve congestion and make you feel better. However, if you have a fever, do not use the steam room. Raising your core body temperature even higher than it already is when you have a fever is dangerous.
Is Portable Steam Sauna Good for you?
Portable steam saunas have become popular in the home market. They are generally effective and provide some of the same benefits (circulation, sweating, relaxation) as commercial units.
- Pros: Cheap, easy to install, convenient.
- Cons: Can be claustrophobic for some, the heat distribution may not be as even as a professional build.
- Verdict: Yes, they are a good investment if building a permanent steam room at home is not possible.
Is Sauna and Steam Room Good for You Everyday?
For healthy people, use on a daily basis is normally safe. However, most experts suggest taking a day off every once in a while to allow your body to catch up and normalize its core temperature. 3-4 times a week is a “sweet spot” for many.
Is Sauna or Steam Room Better for Weight Loss?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Let’s set the record straight. When you sit in a steam room it goes to sweat profusely. You could step on the scale and immediately see that you’ve lost a pound or two.
However, this is a completely water weight. As soon as you drink the glass of water, the weight is back again.
That being said, some studies have shown that some people who use saunas regularly may have a slightly higher metabolic rate because of the work that the heart does to cool the body. While this could be a positive addition to a more comprehensive weight loss plan, in that it might burn a few extra calories (like a slow walk), sitting in a steam room is never a substitute for diet and exercise. It is a complementary, rather than primary, weight loss practice.
Steam Room Benefits and Disadvantages The Risks
While the answer to the question “Is steam sauna good for you” will most of the time be a positive one, there are steam bath disadvantages and risks you need to know about.
- Dehydration: Number one risk is dehydration. You lose fluids rapidly. If you do not replenish them, you can feel dizzy, nauseous, and get headaches.
- Overheating: If you are in too long your core temperature can rise to dangerous levels (hyperthermia).
- Infection Risk: Public steam rooms are warm wet places – perfect for the growth of bacteria and fungi if not cleaned properly. Always wear flip flops and sit on a towel.
- Heart Conditions: The heat causes the blood vessels to dilate and the heart rate to increase. If you have unstable heart disease or have had a recent heart attack, consult a doctor first.
1. Steam Sauna Temperature for Health Benefits
When you want to enjoy the maximum benefit from your time in the steam sauna without stressing your heart, a steam sauna temperature that provides health benefits typically ranges between 110 degrees Fahrenheit and 120 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius – 49 degrees Celsius). While this is low when compared to a dry sauna, because of the 100% humidity it feels much more intense.
| Feature | Recommended Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 110°F – 120°F (43°C – 49°C) | Hotter isn’t always better; humidity makes 110°F feel like 130°F. |
| Humidity | 100% | This is what defines a steam room vs. a dry sauna. |
| Session Duration | 15 – 20 Minutes | Listen to your body; leave if you feel dizzy. |
2. Benefits of Steam Room After Workout
One of the favorite times to take to the steam room is immediately after a heavy lifting session or cardio. Why? Because it aids recovery.
- Muscle Relaxation: The heat gets deep into muscle tissue that helps to relax tight muscles and decrease stiffness.
- Lactic Acid Reduction: While the science on “flushing out lactic acid” is mixed, the increased blood flow certainly helps clear the muscles of metabolic waste products, which may help to increase recovery time.
- Joint Flexibility: Heat increases the flexibility of connective tissue, and this can help improve your range of motion.
3. Relief of Stress and Mental Health
In our hectic modern world, stress is a constant buddy. Steam baths compel you to slow down. The heat promotes the release of the body’s “feel-good” chemicals called endorphins. Many users report experiencing better sleep quality and reduced anxiety levels after being regular steam therapy users.
Expert Tips for a Safe Steam Session
- Hydrate Before, During and After Drink a glass of water before you go in. Carry a water bottle with you if allowed, and drink plenty of water afterwards.
- Remove Jewellery Metal can get extremely hot in a steam room and burn your skin, or tarnish from the moisture.
- Shower After: Always take a shower after the session to wash out the toxins and sweat that you have discharged from your pores.
- Avoid Alcohol: Never drink alcohol before or during a steam session. It causes the increased risk of dehydration and hypotension (low blood pressure).
- Cover Cuts: If you have any open wounds, cover them up. The humid environment is not sterile and you do not want an infection.
Is Sauna or Steam Room Better?
Both have their merits. If you are trying to decide which is better for you, consider how your body reacts to heat.
| Factor | Steam Room | Dry Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Type | Moist Heat (High Humidity) | Dry Heat (Low Humidity) |
| Temperature | Lower (110°F–120°F) | Higher (150°F–195°F) |
| Tolerance | Easier for those who struggle with dry heat. | Better for those who dislike “wet” heat. |
| Best For | Skin hydration, respiratory issues, muscle relaxation. | Heavy sweating, cardiovascular endurance, intense heat exposure. |
| Breathing | Easier to breathe for most; feels tropical. | Air can feel harsh on the lungs for some. |
Verdict: If you have respiratory issues or want to improve your skin, the steam room is likely better for you. If you want an intense heat experience and dry sweat, the dry sauna wins.
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FAQs
Is steam better than sauna for congestion?
Yes, is steam sauna better for breathing? Definitely. The moisture is important in order to soothe the respiratory tract, while dry sauna air can sometimes feel irritating to people who suffer from sensitive sinuses.
Is steam better than sauna for detoxing?
A: Both cause sweating, which is the body’s natural method of keeping itself cool down, not necessarily “deting” in the medical sense (your liver and kidneys do the real detox work). However, steam rooms have a heavier sweat induction in a shorter period of time due to the humidity, which is what many users prefer.
Is a steam shower as good for you as a sauna?
Yes, a steam shower (a shower enclosure fitted with a steam generator) has essentially the same beneficial health effects as a commercial steam room, in respect to skin hydration and relief of the respiratory system. The big difference is space, a steam shower is typically smaller and more private.
Can I use a steam sauna if I have high blood pressure?
It’s complicated. The heat opens up blood vessels and this may actually cause a temporary decrease in blood pressure. However, the stress that is put on the heart can be risky. You must ask your doctor before taking a steam room if you are suffering from uncontrollable hypertension or heart problems.
Final Thought
So, is steam sauna good for you? The answer to this is a resounding yes. From helping to improve the texture of your skin, to helping your muscles recover after a grueling workout, or calming your respiratory system, the list of benefits is enormous. Whether you choose to go on a day of luxury spa treatments or invest in a portable steam sauna for your own home, the most important thing to remember to get the most out of these treatments is moderation and hydration as well as listening to your body.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always talk with a healthcare professional before undertaking any new healthcare regimes, particularly if you have pre-existing health conditions.
