Each one has its own good points. Also, each one has it drawbacks. To say that one is superior to the other is inaccurate. The best way to determine which will be more helpful and effective is to assess your own requirement and current health conditions. At one point you may find steam bath more relaxing and rejuvenating. At another time, you may find FIR sauna more therapeutic and soothing. Below is more detailed and complete evaluation of various criteria of the two:



Steam Sauna

In a steam sauna, the available air inside the room that makes your body warm is heated. People with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, sinus congestion or allergies are recommended for steam saunas. The steam produced makes it easier to breathe inside. It is regarded as a therapeutic treatment for curing many sicknesses due to the improved blood circulation from excessive sweating. It uses a steam generator that maintains a temperature between 30'C and 40'C with a humidity level that can reach 100%. Steam saunas are usually made of ceramic tiles and other non-porous materials that can hold the moisture produced by the steam.

Setting up a steam sauna may require trained and licensed plumber to install it properly. More time and effort is utilized in order to seal the room suitably. You have to consider plumbing and drainage requirements as well. A professionally done electrical wiring system may also be necessary.

The heating time for a steam sauna is usually 25-35 minutes. The recommended bathing time is 45-80 minutes and you can place aromatherapy oils and scent for a more soothing experience. Remember to take a shower before and after the bath to prevent germs and bacteria. But a regular cleaning is a must since bacteria is most likely to breed because of the warm and wet environments.

FIR Sauna

An FIR sauna uses radiant energy from infrared light to heat the body directly. The radiant heat that penetrates the body through the skin are claimed to be more effective in the detoxification process. A common sauna room is made of wood ? cedar, bamboo, fir, poplar, aspen, or hemlock.

No plumbing is required when building a sauna. Less labor and materials are needed to set it up. Though, it may require electrical wiring system. The average time for sauna rooms to warm up is 10 minutes. It is suggested to drink a lot of water before and after bathing to avoid dehydration. A bathing time of 15-25 minutes is already enough. Electricity consumption is cheaper for saunas since it takes less time to heat the room. You will incur a cost of approximately less than $1 for every 20-minute session.

There are people who have experienced drying of hair and skin after several sessions. Dehydration is also more probable because of the high temperature.

Regular cleansing is not required with FIR saunas. To remove stains on the wood, use various acidic solutions or light sanding at least once a month. The FIR sauna offers the flexibility of easily moving it to a new location.