Overusing saunas can lead to dangerous health risks, despite their potential health benefits.

A great way to unwind after a strenuous workout or a demanding day is to spend time in a sauna.

In a sauna, you can enhance relaxation by reading a favorite book, listening to a motivational podcast, or simply closing your eyes, taking deep breaths, and sweating away stress.

At gyms and spas, saunas are a common feature, but you also have the option to purchase one for your own home.

While a sauna has health advantages, it's crucial to be aware of potential dangers.

According to the North American Sauna Society, a sauna is defined as a room that is heated to a temperature between 150 to 195 (F) degrees, and the temperature and humidity of the room can be controlled by sprinkling water on the rocks in the heater/stove.

Wood-burning saunas, electrically heated saunas, manufactured sauna rooms, smoke saunas, steam rooms, and infrared rooms are some of the most common types of saunas found.

The majority of health benefits from saunas are similar regardless of the type used.

Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist from Scottsdale, Arizona, and founder of youth skin care brand BTWN, stated in an email to Planet Chronicle Digital that while many benefits overlap, steam may be better for respiratory issues, and far infrared may be better for weight loss and recovery.

There are several different health benefits that come along with sauna use.

According to Jeffy, both steam and dry saunas can positively impact respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease, and dementia.

"In addition to relaxing the body, both steam and infrared saunas can help stiff muscles and joints, increase circulation to the skin, and lower blood pressure. Infrared saunas may also aid in weight loss when combined with exercise and enhance muscle recovery."

According to Jeffy, the time of day you use a sauna is irrelevant. Both a morning sweat or a relaxing sauna session before bed can have health benefits.

Many people also choose to hop in a sauna after a workout.

Jeffy stated that sessions following exercise aid in managing weight and recovering muscles.

Ensure to monitor your time while using a sauna.

Gym saunas often come equipped with clocks, allowing you to keep track of time without bringing your phone in, which could overheat.

Make sure to bring a timer or set an alarm to signal when it's time to leave if a clock or timer is not available.

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"Jeffy stated that the recommended time to spend in a dry sauna or steam room is approximately 15-20 minutes. However, an infrared sauna can be used for longer periods, ranging from 20 to 40 minutes."

If you choose to incorporate sauna use into your routine, it's important to be aware of both the benefits and risks.

The risks include dehydration, heat exhaustion and stroke, according to Jeffy.

Bring a bottle of water to the sauna to prevent dehydration.

If you're not a regular sauna user, start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration to allow your body to adjust.

According to Jeffy, if you are pregnant, sick, intoxicated, or prone to dizziness, you should not use a sauna.

Jeffy stated that saunas should not be used if you have a history of heart attacks, angina, aortic stenosis, or congestive heart failure.