By Navitas Spa & SportsPublished: 25 August 20261 min read
At a glance
A Finnish sauna is dry heat at 70–90 °C and low humidity; a steam room is wet heat at 40–45 °C and near-100% humidity. Sauna warms muscles deeply and suits preparation for a massage and recovery after training; steam is gentler on the body, opens the skin and airways and suits preparation for a hammam scrub and relief after a cold, dry cabin. Both end best with a cool shower.
Side by side
| Compare | Sauna | Steam room |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–90 °C | 40–45 °C |
| Humidity | 10–20% | ~100% |
| Feels | Hot, dry, intense | Warm, wet, enveloping |
| Round length | 8–15 min | 10–15 min |
| Best before | Massage, especially deep or sports | Hammam scrub |
| Best after | Training, a swim | A flight — sinuses and skin |
| At the spa | Pale wood, marble column | Navy-to-white mosaic |
The circuit
- 01Shower
- 02Steam room, 10 minutes
- 03Cool rinse under the experience shower
- 04Sauna, 10 minutes
- 05Bucket shower
- 06Rest on the heated loungers with water
Cautions
- Not in pregnancy or with uncontrolled heart or blood-pressure conditions
- Not when dehydrated after a long flight — drink first
- Leave at once if light-headed
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for a cold?
Steam, for the airways — but stay home if you have a fever.
Can I do both?
Yes, with a cool shower and a few minutes' rest between.