Dry Sauna Vs. Wet Sauna

Having a sauna at home is not as easy as having it done instantly. There are a lot of choices to make, particularly the installation part depending on whether it is a dry sauna or a wet sauna. Though they have some differences, their basic mechanism is pretty much the same. So what exactly differentiates the two?

Water is poured on these rocks in order to produce steam in a wet sauna, whereas, in the dry type, these rocks are simply heated to higher temperatures. However, there are some moisture levels in a dry sauna, and these can be controlled by pouring a small amount of water on the rocks.

Dry Sauna: Temperatures are much higher, and hover anywhere between 150 °F to 200 °F.

Wet Sauna: Temperatures are lower, and range between 100 °F to 114 °F. However, the amount of heat experienced is the same, due to the humidity levels.

Dry Sauna: There is very little moisture in the air that allows the body to sweat and cool itself. Further, these moisture levels can be controlled.

Wet Sauna: Humidity levels are higher because of the steam generated. Because the heat levels are the same, the body sweats as much, but has no way of cooling off because of the continuous presence of moisture.

Dry Sauna: Health experts propound the use of a dry sauna for weight loss. Due to the high levels of heat that induce sweating, the body is able to burn off more calories. It also increases the body's metabolic rate.

Wet Sauna: A wet sauna is extremely beneficial for those who would like to cleanse their skin and detoxify the body. The steam opens up the skin pores, thereby allowing them to be cleaned easily.

Dry Sauna: It is usually constructed with wood panels, because the humidity levels are comparatively lower, and because wood can absorb the excess heat.

Wet Sauna: It is constructed with ceramic tiles, because of its resistance to high amounts of moisture.

Dry Sauna: The temperatures should be carefully monitored, because higher temperatures can cause the skin to scald.

Wet Sauna: The prime concern is that of one's ability to breathe, because of the heavy humidity. On the other hand, it is more useful if you have a cold, as it opens up the nasal passages and reduces breathing trouble caused by the cold. It is important to wear a towel in a wet sauna, in order to prevent any type of infection.

Both, a dry sauna and a wet sauna are meant to induce a condition called hyperthermia, where the body's temperature is elevated to then serve different benefits. Be it weight loss, skin care, or simply increased blood circulation to keep the body free of health problems, both provide adequate benefits to the body.

At the end of the day, it all boils down to which sauna you are more comfortable with. Apart from the presence of humidity, the benefits of a dry sauna may not necessarily outdo those of a wet one.

Those who suffer from blood pressure problems or are pregnant, should avoid the use of a sauna altogether. Further, getting used to a sauna, either dry or wet, is going to take some time.

If you are new to the entire experience, it is a good idea to start with spending a few minutes in the sauna, and gradually increase the time spent, so that your tolerance to the heat levels increases.