Real halotherapy or just pretty rocks?

Can you see (or has staff named) a halogenerator unit in the room?

Real caves run a visible box with a hopper, fan, and intake -- usually mounted on the wall or in a service alcove. Brands: SaltAir, Halotherapy Solutions, Halo One, Saltability.

Does the studio confirm they use pharmaceutical-grade NaCl (99.99% pure)?

This is the only salt that should ever go into a halogenerator. Pink Himalayan or table salt is a giveaway it's decor-only.

Do you hear a low mechanical hum or grinding sound during the session?

The micronizer mechanism makes a soft hum. Total silence = no active aerosolization happening.

Do you taste salt on your lips within the first 10 minutes?

Aerosolized NaCl in the 1-5 micron range deposits on lips quickly. No salty taste at all = no real aerosol concentration.

Are sessions at least 30 minutes long?

Clinical halotherapy protocols are 30-60 minutes. 15-minute 'sessions' don't deliver enough particle exposure to do anything.

Is there loose salt on the floor that you can sit or walk on?

Floor salt isn't required, but it's common in real caves. Sterile-looking rooms with only a wall of pink rocks are a yellow flag.

Does the room feel dry, not humid?

Dry salt therapy requires <50% humidity. Steamy / humid rooms means moist salt that won't aerosolize -- usually a 'salt sauna' that isn't halotherapy.

Does the studio describe a between-session cleaning or salt-refresh protocol?

Real operators replace or refresh salt and clean the halogenerator hopper. If staff can't describe it, the unit may be off.

Is the marketing focused mostly on the Himalayan salt walls and 'ambience' rather than a halogenerator?

Decor-first marketing is the loudest red flag. If a website never says 'halogenerator' or 'dry salt therapy', it's probably not delivering it.

Does the studio make specific medical claims (cures asthma, eliminates allergies, treats COPD)?

Reputable halotherapy operators say 'may help' and cite research. Cure claims = either ignorance or deception.