Hot Shower Vs Cold Shower: In the chilling winter of the northern part of the country, choosing between hot shower and cold shower seems like a tough decision. While mostly people bathe with hot water for bodily comfort. Some theories and many social media influencers suggest taking cold showers.
Is it better to take a hot or cold shower in the winter? Let’s break down the Hot Shower Vs Cold Shower debate. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make the best choice.
What Are The Disadvantages Of A Hot Water Bath?
Is it good to bathe with hot water in winter? While a hot water bath can give your body comfort in frosty winter, it can also rip your skin off its natural oils. Extreme hot showers can damage skin health.
It can lead to skin rashes, acne, dry skin and itchy skin. Many studies including ‘Impact of Water Exposure and Temperature Changes on Skin Barrier Function’ advise to “ avoid hot water.”
Hot Shower Benefits In Winter
If we talk about the advantages of hot showers during winter, there are plenty of them. Hot water bath relaxes muscles, making you feel calm and peaceful. Hot water bath benefits stiff joints, improves sleep quality and boosts blood circulation.
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However, experts advise to take a ‘warm water bath’ instead of a hot shower. A Japanese study suggests that “immersion bathing (in warm water), but not shower bathing, exerts hyperthermic action that induces increased blood flow and metabolic waste elimination.”
Can Hot Water Damage Hair?
Well, the right answer depends on people to people. Some people may get hair cortisol loss with a hot shower while some may not. However, hot water takes away the natural oils of your scalp and may lead to dry and frizzy hair. It’s better to wash hair with lukewarm water.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Cold Showers?
Valid question. Is it a bad idea to take cold showers in winter? While a cold shower refreshes the body, sudden exposure to cold water can give you chills. Cold showers can also lead to respiratory problems in some people.
Elderly people prefer warm water baths because it’s good for their health. Hot water bath helps reduce swelling, joint pain and is comfortable for the body to endure winter. Similarly, babies should also be bathed with lukewarm water.
Cold Shower Benefits In Winter
Hot Shower Vs Cold Shower in winter is the toughest choice. However, those who choose cold water may enjoy the benefits it gives. A cold shower boosts blood circulation, carrying the oxygenated blood to your organs.
Cold shower also keeps the skin healthy, improves metabolism and boosts feel-good hormones like dopamine and endorphins. A Norwegian study says that cold water baths may “have a protective effect against cardiovascular, obesity and other metabolic diseases.”
Hot Shower Vs Cold Shower
Choosing between hot shower vs cold shower is not that difficult. If you have joint pain, muscle stiffness or swelling, go for a hot water bath. If you think your immune system can bear the cold water bath, go for it.
Cold showers bring many health benefits including skin health and energy. But if you do not want to bathe with cold water, experts advise that lukewarm water is ideal. Our skin can easily bear lukewarm water temperature. It is good in winter as it helps with stress and sleep.
When it comes to choosing between hot and cold showers in winter, the best option ultimately depends on individual preferences, health conditions, and body capacity. However, for a balanced approach, lukewarm water emerges as an ideal choice.
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Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Individual needs and health conditions vary, so it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your bathing routine, especially if you have specific medical conditions or sensitivities.
