Wet Sauna vs. Dry Sauna — What’s the Difference

Did you know that people have used saunas for thousands of years around the globe? Many countries and cultures, from Finland and Turkey, have long recognized their numerous health benefits.

If you have ever experienced sitting in a sauna, it was either a wet sauna or a dry sauna. What is the difference between the two, and are they created equal?

Read on to learn all about dry saunas and wet saunas and the benefits of each.

1. Dry Sauna vs. Wet Sauna

Wet saunas are also known as steam rooms. Almost all saunas use some type of heater and volcanic rocks, but the difference between them lies in the steam.

In a wet sauna, you splash water on the hot rocks. Since the rocks are so hot, when the water vaporizes, it creates steam. Steam rooms are much more humid than dry saunas, even though they’re not as hot.

Dry saunas are much hotter and less humid than steam rooms. In a dry sauna, there is still the presence of a heater and volcanic rocks; however, there is no water used, just hot rocks.

Scientific evidence is still unclear whether steam rooms have the same physiological impact on the body as a dry sauna. The primary difference is they’re not as hot, so they may not create the same responses in the body as the dry sauna.

2. What are the Benefits of Using a Sauna?

There are numerous health benefits that you can reap from the regular usage of a dry sauna.

• If you’re looking for something to aid in your weight loss journey, in addition to a good diet and exercise, you can add a sauna into your routine. Sitting in a sauna after working out can help you burn even more calories and even help regulate the appetite.
• Saunas work wonders on the skin. Sitting in a sauna will open up your pores and rejuvenate the skin, having an anti-aging effect. Saunas also serve the purpose of being a natural moisturizer by opening up the sebaceous glands.
• Sitting in a sauna increases your blood circulation. When your body temperature rises, your heart rate increases, thus increasing your circulation. You’re getting the benefits of doing mild cardio by just sitting in the heated space.
• When you sit in a hot tub, you sweat. When your body sweats, you eliminate toxins. Some of the most common toxins in our bodies that get flushed out during dry sauna use include BPA, lead, mercury, and nicotine.
• Do you suffer from a rheumatic disease? If so, a dry sauna may benefit you. A 2018 study found that dry saunas can help with rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.
• Individuals suffering from chronic fatigue or other pain syndromes can also benefit from regular dry sauna sessions.

Try a Dry Sauna Today

If you’re looking for something natural to improve your health, try out a dry sauna today. Whether you have access to one in your complex or invest in one for your home, the health benefits far outweigh the cost.

Are you interested in reading more articles about your Lifestyle? Check out the life section of my blog for more great wellness reads.