Interest in whether or not cold showers carry health benefits has grown popularity on online web searches. Maybe you are even one of these people attempting to find out if you should be taking a cold shower. Well we are here to clear up your questions based on the facts. Unsurprisingly, it’s more complicated than a “yes” or “no” answer.
What Cold Water Can Do For Your Health
There are multiple studies that suggest cold water during a shower can help increase metabolism, boost your mood, and even produce healthier skin and hair. However, the research is still at its beginning stages or is loosely connected.
For example, there is data to suggest your mood can be boosted from some cold water, originating from a study in Finland, but it is not enough to be certain. In addition, researchers say that 2-3 minutes in a cold shower may relieve depression symptoms, but again they noted a need for further research. Another possible outcome of a cold shower may include the build up of brown fat (a type of fat that burns extra calories).
However, there is enough evidence to say that cold water “will flatten the ruffled cuticles and lock in moisture to prevent breakage” in your hair. Cold water can also increase blood circulation, constrict blood vessels to tighten pores, and decrease redness and puffiness. So if you want a nice and healthy glow in the morning, perhaps you want to try ending your shower with some cold water.
The Conclusion On Cold vs. Hot
The benefits of cold water are yet to be concluded confidently, however the health experts suggest that you could revel in the possible benefits with just a 10 second burst of cold water at the end of your shower. And if you absolutely can’t stand the thought of cold, then you probably won’t miss out much.
The best showers you can take are in lukewarm or mildly cold water that last for 10 minutes or less. Be sure to lather with a gentle and fragrance-free soap. At the end of your shower pat your body down with a towel and moisturize your body while your skin is still damp. You should be able to thoroughly enjoy a beautiful glow.
One warning when taking showers is to be sure that the water isn’t “super” hot. You might feel relaxed but it can truly be damaging for your skin and hair. Why is this? The hot water will strip away natural and protective oils. Those who have to deal with skin conditions such as eczema should be especially aware since the disappearance of these oils can leave your skin feeling dry and itchy.
So take the cold water advice, but only at a minimum. Don’t worry too much about missing out on these loose health benefits. You could benefit even more from living a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and a good fitness regime.