In a previous health story, we talked about the benefits of cold showers. Now, we delve into its counterpart: hot showers. We take a look at why we love them and what it does to our skin…
You’ve just come home after an exhausting day and, naturally, you’re craving a bit of comfort. So, you decide to treat yourself to a soothing hot shower. As the water washes away the stress and strains of the day, a sense of relaxation gradually envelops you. Stepping out, you feel utterly refreshed. It’s a great feeling, right?
Hot showers have always been popular for their ability to transform a simple body cleansing ritual into a rejuvenating escapade you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home. As much as we love hot showers, though, it’s important to understand their inherent drawbacks. So, now, we invite you to discover the pros and cons of hot showers, as well as how to make the most of this revitalizing experience.
SCIENCE-BACKED BENEFITS
Many can attest that a hot shower relaxes the body. Medical advisor Jessica Caporuscio, in an article published by Medical News Today, mentions that hot showers can soothe tired muscles and stiff joints. In addition, the heat enhances blood flow by widening blood vessels and promotes cardiovascular health, which is good for those with congestive heart failure.
Another interesting reference is a 2017 study by Daisuke Kojima et al., which investigates the impact of hot water on brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF), small proteins crucial for nerve cell survival and growth. The study revealed that head-out hot water immersion induces hyperthermia, boosting BDNF production and contributing to improved brain health.
Furthermore, hot showers also relieve respiratory and cold symptoms. According to Healthline, the steam from hot water can clear out congestion by removing mucus buildup. Additionally, hot showers benefit the skin by opening up pores and facilitating the removal of trapped oil and dirt.
And if you have been experiencing sleep issues, hot showers might be the solution, as suggested by the Sleep Foundation. Our body temperature obviously rises during a hot shower, after which a cooling-down period follows; this triggers our circadian rhythm that dictates various body processes, including the way the body induces sleepiness.
GOOD FOR THE SKIN?
Although a long hot shower can feel like a luxury, some downsides exist. For one, it can wreak havoc on your skin. In an interview with Allure, New York-based dermatologist Shari Marchbein stated that some pre-existing skin problems, including eczema, rosacea and acne, can be aggravated by hot showers. “A hot shower can worsen any skin condition characterized by a defective skin barrier,” says Marchbein.
In addition, hot water strips the skin and hair of moisture and healthy oils, leaving them drier and dehydrated.
Another concern is the risk of pruritus or itching. Healthline explains that exposure to hot water can prompt Y mast cells—which contain histamine, a chemical compound notorious for causing allergy symptoms—to release their contents. Consequently, the skin becomes itchy. The Mayo Clinic mentions that dry skin, which might result from hot showers, can contribute to this itching sensation.
IT’S ALL ABOUT BALANCE
Hot showers have their benefits and drawbacks; this, however, shouldn’t deter you from enjoying this warm indulgence when the need arises. What’s important here is understanding how to make the most of the benefits of taking a hot shower and mitigate potential risks that come with it.
And, of course, it all starts with the water temperature.
In an interview with the Daily Express, Dr. Deborah Lee states that showering with water at temperatures above 40°C has significant health consequences. In general, she recommends water temperatures between 36°C and 40°C. And using a moisturizer is always a good idea to replenish the skin’s moisture post-shower.
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that shorter showers, around five minutes, are better for the skin. In addition, short showers also enable us to save water, which benefits the environment in the long run. And for better sleep, experts suggest taking a hot shower one or two hours before bedtime.
Hot showers are indeed comforting and offer a sense of rejuvenation. But if your priority is maintaining hydrated, supple and healthy skin, then it’s better to skip daily hot showers and treat them as a special luxury for those occasions where you really need one. Otherwise, stick to lukewarm showers.