One question that remains unanswered is Dry Sauna or Wet sauna. Is one actually better than the other? How are dry sauna and wet sauna different? However, without a doubt, after an arduous day at work or intense workout, we run for a nice, warm bath. It seems to take all the stress away. The sauna works on the same principle. Both dry and wet saunas are gaining popularity. We see them functioning at our gyms, doctor’s clinics or even some people’s houses. It provides various undeniable health benefits. But the hot burning question remains the same- Dry sauna as opposed to wet sauna. Well, they are actually quite different. Which one is best for you? Let’s find out.
Wet Sauna:
Benefits
Wet saunas can also be perceived as steam baths. The temperature is quite high in these rooms but they also have fairly high humidity levels. Inside the wet sauna, your heart rate increases. The steam will boost circulation and rejuvenate fatigued muscles or joints. You break a sweat which helps your body to get rid of toxins. The steam clears out the skin and leaves it blush and glowing. It can prevent minor illnesses such as a cold. It helps the body to detoxify and relax. While sitting in a room full of steam makes you feel completely transported to a calmer place. It definitely reduces your stress levels, hence encouraging good mental health as well as physical health.
Harmful Effects
It is extremely important to stay hydrated in a wet sauna. You must drink enough water to make up for the loss of bodily fluids for the amount of time you are inside the room. It can cause dehydration. As the heart rate increase, it can be risky for people with heart problems to spend long hours in the bath. Consult a doctor, listen to your body and make sure you go in these rooms clean. Increased levels of humidity can lead to harmful bacteria or fungi growth and cause infections.
Dry Sauna:
Benefits
Dry saunas are quintessential saunas that are made as a plain, wooden rooms with modern electric heating or wood burning stoves. The dry heat makes you sweat as well. However, you perspire much more in a dry sauna than in a wet sauna. The blood flow improves paving way to muscle longevity. Inflammation in muscles and joints reduces with regular sauna baths. Sweating comes with various benefits to our body. It doesn’t only help you get rid of toxins but improves overall circulation as well. The major difference between dry sauna and wet sauna is the humidity level and temperature. Since it uses dry heat, the humidity is much lower than wet sauna making it more tolerable. You can sit in for a longer period of time in dry sauna than wet sauna. The quality of the skin improves since the heat causes pores to open and all the dirt gets removed and harmful bacteria gets killed. According to a Study by Harvard Medical School, Sauna seems to lead to lesser heart problems and longer life.
Harmful Effects
A longer period of exposure to dry sauna can cause skin irritation, chapping and drying. It may occur as a result of dehydration as well because of the excessive loss of body fluids. Wet sauna has this edge over dry sauna. Furthermore, people with serious heart conditions must consult a doctor.
Precautionary measures before going into the sauna
- Before you enter into steam room or sauna, take a quick shower to remove any bacteria build up. It’s essential for you as well as others.
- Be aware of the amount of time you spend in the bath. Don’t exceed 15- 20 minutes. It is advised to take a cooling off period in between your session.
- After the session is over, take a cold shower to get rid of sweat. This will ensure the dirt from clogged pores gets cleaned out. Additionally, it will improve lymphatic circulation.
- Hydrate. Drink about 2-3 glasses of water before starting the session and don’t hesitate to carry a water bottle inside in case you feel the need.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol before going into these baths.
So the choice between dry and wet sauna depends on you. It’s a matter of personal choice. Where wet sauna has better effects on the skin, dry sauna aids in muscle strain reduction, curing a mild cold and sinuses and more regulated blood flow. However, you can’t go wrong with either!