Hot showers may feel relaxing, but some skincare experts say temperature and duration can affect your skin’s health, and the impact varies by person.
As conversations about shower habits trend on social media, concerns have been raised about hot water damaging the skin. However, experts caution that there is no universal rule.
“There are no hard and fast rules,” said Emily Tichy, esthetician and founder of the Skin Spot Laser Club. “It’s really important to listen to your body and your skin. You are the expert with your skin.”
Some individuals, like Allison Sanchez, said they enjoy long, hot showers despite the warnings.
“I tried rinsing with cold water, but didn’t find much of a difference,” Sanchez said. “Now I just take really hot showers and enjoy it.”
Tichy said shower length is also a matter of personal choice, as long as proper skincare is practiced afterward.
“If you’re using the right products and want to pamper your skin, then it’s fine to take a longer shower,” Tichy said. “If you notice dryness, that’s a sign to adjust — maybe shorten your showers or add more moisture.”
Sanchez said she showers once a day and washes her hair every other day.
“I think people should shower more often,” she said. “Before bed, it’s a good way to wash off the day and stay hygienic.”
Tichy noted that skincare product selection is often overlooked but plays a key role in overall skin health.
“Your skin is your body’s largest organ. It’s absorbing and functioning constantly,” she said. “We want to be gentle and avoid scrubbing. Cleansing should remove sweat, bacteria, and product buildup — not strip the skin.”
Concerns about product ingredients are also growing.
“I started reading about endocrine disruptors and how chemicals can affect your body internally,” Sanchez said. “That made me switch to more natural products.”
While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, Tichy said the best advice is to pay attention to what works for your skin.
“To put it simply, you’ve got to find the routine that works for you,” she said.
For some, showering is also a form of self-care.
“I love my eucalyptus in the shower,” Sanchez said. “It’s a little aromatherapy. It makes it cozy, luxurious, and fun."
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