The Many Health Benefits of Steam Saunas

The Other Side of the Sauna Story

On the flip side of the comparison, many people feel that a steam sauna provides benefits that can’t be matched by a far infrared sauna. Their main position is that the steam produced by a conventional sauna is essential to the healing process, especially in regard to respiratory health.

In response to those who say a steam sauna will dry out membranes, supporters of Finnish and other conventional saunas state that the steam is beneficial to those with sinus conditions and add that because they operate without steam, infrared saunas are drying and can irritate nasal and lung passages. In addition the dry heat from infrared saunas can cause hair to dry out and skin to become itchy and flaky.

Supporters of conventional saunas feel that information about the health benefits of saunas that operate with infrared have been exaggerated or claimed without proof. They refer to different studies that show a traditional sauna produces more sweat and removes more toxins.

And some say that any radiation, even infrared, is unhealthy and should be avoided. An infrared sauna has several heaters, and bathers must sit within a foot of the heat source in order to gain full benefits. In some cases, this has caused people to feel sunburned following an infrared sauna.

Others who prefer conventional saunas feel that a steam sauna simply feels more healthy and refreshing. And because you can control the steam, heat, and humidity by adding more water or moving to a higher or lower bench in the sauna, you can tailor the experience to match your needs and preferences.

Some people prefer a sauna that is heated with wood, allowing a traditional heat source as well as the option to add smoke to the sauna for additional purifying features. Others add aromatherapy oils to their sauna steam to create a dual cleansing and healing effect. This is typically not possible with an infrared sauna.

And there is the tradition and ritual that comes along with certain aspects of a sweat lodge or Finnish sauna that have been a part of different cultures for hundreds of years. For many people, a sauna is not only key to a healthy physical life, it is also important to overall spiritual health, and making the steam, or löyly (lou-lu), is an important part of that ritual.

Gain First-Hand Knowledge Before Choosing

When it comes to choosing between an infrared sauna and a steam sauna or one that operates with more conventional technology, it is best to try each type yourself and to talk with people who own them. Take time to fully research your options and talk to your doctor about health concerns with either type of sauna. In the end, the choice may come down to limitations in budget, space available, preferences in heating sources, or other personal factors.

No matter which you choose, you will be joining the ranks of millions of people who use and enjoy saunas to improve their health, provide relief and relaxation from life’s stresses, socialize with friends and family, and even find spiritual peace.

Return to Conventional Steam Saunas vs. Infrared Saunas

About the Author:

C.J. Gustafson is a successful writer for Saunas-N-Sauna-Kits.com. She has been a fan of home saunas ever since a grade school friend’s Finnish grandparents invited her to enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna complete with a shockingly refreshing dip in the ice-covered pond.