Hot vs warm showers is a question of comfort against skin health. A long, steaming shower feels wonderful, especially in winter. For your skin, though, heat and time in water are two of the commonest causes of dryness and itching. A small drop in temperature makes a noticeable difference.
What hot water does to skin
The outer layer of the skin is held together by natural oils and fats. They keep moisture in and irritants out.
- Hot water dissolves and removes these oils more quickly than warm water.
- With less oil, water escapes from the skin faster after the shower.
- Blood vessels widen, which makes skin red and can make itching worse.
The result can be tightness, flaking and itch, particularly on the legs, arms and back.
Signs your shower is too hot
- Your skin is red or blotchy when you step out.
- It feels tight or itchy within minutes.
- The mirror and the whole bathroom are thick with steam.
- Dry patches or eczema get worse in winter.
What dermatologists recommend
- Warm, not hot. The water should feel comfortable, not like a challenge.
- Five to ten minutes.
- A gentle cleanser.
- Moisturizer straight afterwards.
There is no single "correct" number, but water close to body temperature or slightly above, roughly 37 to 40°C (98 to 104°F), is a sensible range for most adults. If you have no thermometer, use this test: you should be able to step under the water at once without flinching.
Hot, warm and cool compared
| Hot | Warm | Cool or cold | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Relaxing | Comfortable | Bracing |
| Effect on natural oils | Removes the most | Removes some | Removes the least |
| Dry, itchy skin | Often worsens | Suitable | Can soothe itch |
| Redness and flushing | Increases | Little effect | Reduces |
| Cleansing | No better than warm | Good | Rinses less oil and product |
Who should be most careful with heat
- People with dry skin, eczema or psoriasis.
- People with rosacea or skin that flushes easily.
- Older adults, whose skin makes less oil.
- Babies and young children, whose skin is thin and burns easily.
- Anyone who feels faint in heat. Very hot showers can lower blood pressure.
How to enjoy a warm shower
- Warm the room, not the water. Close the door and windows, or run a heater safely beforehand.
- Turn the heat down gradually over a week.
- Finish with a slightly cooler rinse, if you like.
- Have a warm towel and dressing gown ready.
- Moisturize within a few minutes. See When to Apply Body Lotion for Your Daily Routine.
What about cold showers?
Some people enjoy a cool finish, and cool water can calm itchy or flushed skin. Claims that cold showers close pores or greatly improve skin are not well supported. Pores do not open and close like doors. People with heart conditions should avoid sudden cold exposure, unless a doctor has said it is fine.
Hair and scalp
Very hot water can dry the scalp and hair and fade hair color faster. Wash with warm water and rinse conditioner with slightly cooler water.
If you love hot baths
- Limit them to once or twice a week.
- Keep them to 10 to 15 minutes.
- Add a bath oil or colloidal oatmeal, and take care, because oil makes the bath slippery.
- Moisturize generously afterwards.
Aftercare matters as much as temperature
Pat your skin dry and apply a cream or lotion while it is still slightly damp. For persistently dry skin, see Dry Body Skin: Moisturizing Tips for Everyday Care, and for a cold-weather routine, Winter Body Care: A Routine for Dry Skin. The complete shower sequence is in Shower Routine: Simple Steps for Daily Body Care, and How Often Should You Shower? looks at how often to wash.
Related on ArniSun
- Shower Routine: Simple Steps for Daily Body Care
- Dry Body Skin: Moisturizing Tips for Everyday Care
- Winter Body Care: A Routine for Dry Skin
- How Often Should You Shower?
- When to Apply Body Lotion for Your Daily Routine
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Are hot showers bad for your skin?
Regular hot showers strip natural oils and can leave skin dry, red and itchy. Warm showers of five to ten minutes are gentler.
Why is my skin itchy after a shower?
Hot water, long showers, harsh soap and not moisturizing are the usual causes. Cooler, shorter showers and a cream applied straight afterwards usually help.
Do cold showers tighten pores?
Cold water can make skin look temporarily tighter, but pores do not open or close. Any effect is short-lived.