I regularly talk to people who experience dry skin during winter. One man even told me he went to the doctor with a rash on his back. The doctor took one look at his back and said, “That’s not a rash. You just stand under the hot water in your shower for too long!”
What is better than a hot shower on a cold winter morning? It feels great, but those few minutes can lead to dry skin for the rest of the day. You can also end up more dehydrated.
Sure enough, he reduced the temperature of his shower and the ‘rash’ went away.
Here Is a Way to Shower That May Help Avoid Dry Winter Skin
- Turn your shower on as hot as you like for a few moments so the shower cubicle, floor, tiles and air are lovely and warm – this is the secret! It doesn't take long if you have the temperature high enough.
- Step into the shower and rinse under the hot water for a few seconds if you wish – this is optional.
- Turn the shower down to the coolest temperature that is still comfortable for you.
- Shower as usual, but use a soap-free or low-foaming product. Enviro-Care Sensitive Liquid Hair and Body Cleanser is a great option if you are looking for a recommendation. Try not to linger in the shower for too long – it benefits your water bill and the environment, as well as your skin.
- Here comes the hardest part – turn the water down until it is quite cold and have a quick rinse. I know this sounds awful in the middle of winter, but it really isn't too bad if you are already nice and warm. Rinse for around 30 seconds, although less is fine too. This helps cool the skin after the heat and steam. Added bonus – you may also notice less frizz if you rinse your hair too!
- Dry off gently with a towel. If you feel the need to use a body moisturiser, then go for it. However, you may find you have less need for added products. If you need a good recommendation, check out VegeSorb.
- Bonus step – eat healthy fats. Fat helps to moisturise the skin from the inside out because the cells of our body contain fats as part of their structure. Fat is important for the strength, hydration and integrity of our skin. Some great sources of dietary fat include gently cooked fish, nuts, seeds, coconut, olive oil and avocado.
Cold Showers May Offer Benefits Beyond Caring for Your Skin
Did you know that cold showers may offer health benefits beyond simply caring for your skin?
Cold exposure may activate ‘disease-fighting’ white blood cells. It may also stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays an important role in clearing waste and supporting immune function. Cold water can also stimulate blood flow as the body works to maintain its core temperature.
Interestingly, cold exposure has also been linked to brown fat, or brown adipose tissue. Unlike white fat, brown fat is metabolically active and uses energy to produce heat. Brown fat has been linked to metabolic health and may play a role in energy expenditure.
Including some cold water in your shower can also feel stimulating and invigorating.
If you think about it, humans have only had easy access to large amounts of hot water relatively recently. Our prehistoric ancestors certainly weren't standing under long, steaming showers every morning! Keeping very hot showers to a minimum may be a simple change worth trying.
If you are struggling with dry winter skin, give it a try. If you would like more support to improve the condition of your skin, book your appointment.