Dermatologists are cautioning against frequent hot showers, revealing their detrimental effects on skin and hair health. Hot water strips away protective oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and potential for allergies. While an occasional warm shower is permissible, experts recommend shorter durations, mild cleansers, and immediate moisturization to mitigate potential damage.
Having a
hot shower
after a stressful day is calming beyond words. You could experience the steam gently warding off the day’s miseries, letting both your body and mind enter a realm of zen. While a hot shower can be soothing, is it really comforting to your skin and hair? Experts weigh in.
Dr. Victoria Barbosa, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Chicago told The New York Times that there are benefits to warmers showers, and baths, however, none of those are beneficial for your skin. She also added that a
hot bath
or shower should be a treat, not a daily occurrence. Several research suggest that hot water strips away the oil and moisture-retaining substances from skin and hair.
Dermatologist Dr. Emily McKenzie told Health Minute that though some people find hot showers as a nice way to relax after a tiring day, the hotter the water is, the more oil and moisture is removed from your skin. The longer you are in the shower, the more this is prolonged. She also adds that shorter lukewarm showers are more protective for your skin. She also recommends using milder, less harsh soaps to retain the natural moisture of the skin.
Dr. Caren Campbell, San Francisco-based board-certified dermatologist told NBC that the skin barrier is crucial as it locks the moisture and also protects against potential allergens and irritants in the environment. When this barrier is disrupted it results in dry skin, rashes, and irritation and also increases the risk of developing allergies. Campbell adds that not using lotions and moisturizers after a hot shower, could further lead to skin damage.
Dr. Elika Hoss, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, told The New York Times that just like the skin, hot water may make hair dry by stripping away the sebum, which keeps the hair moisturized and protected.
Dr. Paola Baker, a dermatologist in Boston, who has researched the function of the skin barrier, told The New York Times about the role of lipids, that help to retain moisture in the skin and protect it. However, a scalding shower will strip the sebum, resulting in dry skin
A 2022 published research by Dr. Trinidad Montero-Vílchez, a dermatologist at Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital in Spain, found that hot water weakens the skin’s barrier. During the study, adults who immersed their hands in hot water experienced increased water loss, redness, and a weakened skin barrier, compared to those who used cold water.
According to several experts having hot showers occasionally as a treat is appropriate. Make sure you keep it shorter. Using a mild soap or cleanser could protect your skin. Aftercare is crucial, so do not forget to slather your favourite moisturizer right after the shower.
(Pic courtesy: Pexels)
I’m Manas Ranjan Sahoo: Founder of “Webtirety Software”. I’m a Full-time Software Professional and an aspiring entrepreneur, dedicated to growing this platform as large as possible. I love to Write Blogs on Software, Mobile applications, Web Technology, eCommerce, SEO, and about My experience with Life.
