What Do You Use First Sauna or Steam Room: A Complete Guide to Wellness Treatments

By George From Sweat N Chill Zone •  Updated: 03/28/24 •  11 min read

Table of Contents


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Deciding between a sauna or steam room as the first step in your wellness journey relies heavily on your individual health and aesthetic goals.

A general understanding of the main differences between the two facilities is essential: a sauna provides dry heat, while a steam room offers moist heat.

Prioritizing hydration is vital, drink plenty of water before entering either a sauna or steam room.

If detoxification is your goal, starting with a sauna could prove beneficial due to its ability to induce sweat and aid in eliminating toxins from the body.

However, for those focused on optimal skin hydration, using a steam room first could be more advantageous. Keep cleanliness and hygiene top of mind when using shared wellness facilities as they can be breeding grounds for bacteria.

Consider important factors such as the time spent in these hot environments, rehydration needs following each session, and any underlying medical concerns that might affect your use of saunas and steam rooms.

what do you use first sauna or steam room

Understanding the Differences Between a Sauna and Steam Room

In the world of wellness, saunas and steam rooms are common but different in their own ways. The primary difference between a sauna and a steam room lies in the type of heat they emit. Saunas generally release dry heat, which can aid in opening up your pores for effective detoxification. On the other hand, steam rooms emit moist warmth that is ideal for skin hydration.

[Pro tip: Being aware of your personal goals before deciding on a sauna or steam room can guide you towards an optimal wellness experience.]

The Importance of Hydration Before Entering a Sauna or Steam Room

Hydration plays a pivotal role when using spa facilities. I cannot stress enough how vital it is to drink one to two glasses of water before entering either facility. By doing so, you are preparing your body to deal with heat while minimizing any risk associated with dehydration.

Maintaining Cleanliness and Hygiene in Shared Wellness Facilities

The importance of cleanliness cannot be overlooked when using shared wellness spaces like saunas or steam rooms. Now that I think about it, taking a shower prior to starting your “sauna vs steam room” session not only promotes proper hygiene but also helps open your pores for better results.

[Pro tip: Don’t forget that maintaining cleanliness benefits not just you but all users of these communal spaces.]

The Benefits of Starting with a Sauna for Detoxification Purposes

If detoxification is on top of your list, consider using the sauna first – their dry heat can work wonders activating sweat glands which help remove toxins from our bodies more efficiently – hence my usual “sauna first” routine.

Using a Steam Room First for Optimal Skin Hydration

All things considered, if hydration is what you’re after in your wellness journey, you might want to use the steam room first. The humidity present in steam rooms can effectively hydrate your skin, making them ideal for achieving a healthy glow.

[Pro tip: When “using steam room first”, make sure not to stay too long, especially if it’s your first time. Limiting your exposure can prevent any negative reactions.]

Considerations for Time Duration, Rehydration and Medical Concerns in Using Saunas and Steam Rooms

You see, spending 15-20 minutes in each facility is generally recommended for healthy adults. However, since both saunas and steam rooms can result in excessive sweating, rehydration post-session is absolutely essential. In any case of related health concerns such as high blood pressure or cardiovascular disorders, do seek medical advice before choosing which one to use first.

[Pro tip: Always listen to what your body tells you – if the heat is too intense or you feel unwell while using either facility – don’t hesitate to step out.]

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When you start using a sauna, you might have questions about what to use first: the sauna or the steam room. Whether it’s for relaxation, detoxification or other health benefits, understanding how to use these facilities properly can greatly enhance your wellness experience. If you’re interested in exploring more about saunas, there are several helpful guides on our website. For those who want to know the proper sequence of using a sauna in relation to workout, we have an insightful page for that. We also answer specific queries such as what does a sauna do for your health and whether saunas contribute to weight loss. Of course, getting started with a home sauna also involves some practical considerations. If you’re wondering how big your sauna should be, we’ve got tips and advice on that too. And since many people worry about maintaining their saunas correctly, we even cover points such as how often you should change your sauna rocks. Moreover, if you’re debating between different types of saunas like infrared or steam-based ones, check out our comparison on which type of sauna is best. With all these resources at hand, getting the most out of your sauna or steam room experience should be a breeze.

My Personal Take about What do you use first sauna or steam room?

Hey there, friend! It’s George here, your trusted guide to all things sauna and cold plunge.


Now that I think about it, many folks get puzzled over the question: “What do you use first sauna or steam room?“.


You see, both options have their unique benefits and it all ultimately boils down to your personal preference and comfort.


In any case, pairing either of these wellness treatments with a refreshing cold plunge can enhance your experience exponentially.


Words of advice:, always listen to what your body needs at any given moment.


To conclude on an optimistic note – whether you choose the sauna or the steam room first or prefer one over the other – there’s an incredible world of wellness opportunities waiting for you. The key lies in learning to appreciate these beneficial treatments in light of their uniqueness. So, why not dip into this enriching domain today? Consider investing in a well-deserved sauna session or better yet – dive into a cold plunge! Life is too short not to treat yourself well, so here’s to hoping this little guide has stirred up some excitement within you!


The debate between using a sauna or steam room first continues, but to achieve ultimate wellness, it’s essential to understand the benefits of both. For instance, experiencing the Sunray Tiburon 4-Person Traditional Sauna before stepping into a steam room can help open pores and relax muscles. Alternatively, you could start with the luxurious Vulcana Indoor Cabin Sauna Kit for an intense sweat session before cooling down in a steam bath.
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Frequently Asked Questions about What do you use first sauna or steam room?

Before you go…

Takeaway 1: Listen to Your Body and Prioritize Your Goals

Sometimes, when it comes to choosing between a sauna and a steam room, it all boils down to what you want to achieve. If detoxification is at the top of your list, consider starting with the sauna. The dry heat can work wonders in opening up your pores and helping you sweat out those toxins. But, if your main focus is on improving your skin’s hydration levels, then heading straight for the steam room might be more up your alley.

Takeaway 2: Prepare Your Body Properly Before Stepping In

Don’t forget to take care of yourself before indulging in some heat therapy. Grab a couple of glasses of water, hop in the shower to get rid of any grime and sweat lingering on your skin, and make sure you’re all set to enjoy a clean and refreshing experience.

Takeaway 3: Stay Hydrated, Be Mindful of Your Limits, Seek Professional Advice if Needed

Whether you’re sweating it out in a sauna or basking in the steam room’s warmth, remember that rehydration is key. These facilities can make you sweat buckets! Keep an eye on how long you’ve been inside each one – around 15-20 minutes should do just fine. And if health issues like high blood pressure or heart conditions are concerns for you, chat with a healthcare professional before diving into either option headfirst. It’s better to be safe than sorry! If you’re wondering what do you use a sauna for , our website will provide all the necessary information you need. However, have in mind that although many find saunas beneficial, it’s crucial to know if you can use a sauna with high blood pressure or with a pacemaker as health precautions should be considered. Proper maintenance is essential for the smooth running of your sauna; check out our guide on when to replace sauna rocks. To get the best from your sessions, learn about how many times can you sauna a day and the necessary items with our article on What is needed for a Sauna.
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George From Sweat N Chill Zone

George, the passionate founder of Sweat N Chill Zone, is an ardent advocate for holistic wellness through the healing powers of saunas and cold plunges. With a background in health sciences and a fervent dedication to sharing the benefits of thermal therapy, George curates an informative space, offering insights, tips, and expert advice to help individuals optimize their health and well-being through the transformative effects of heat and cold treatments. Through Sweat N Chill Zone, George aims to inspire and educate, fostering a community centered around rejuvenation and vitality.