It's the age-old debate, what's better for you: cold or hot water? While so many of us love to wash the day off with a steamy shower, it's long been known that this can have undesired consequences on your skin or body. That being said, cold water has its own pros and cons. So which is it? It seems it's all down to what you're doing with the water and what benefits you want to prioritize. Here's everything you need to consider before you decide which way to turn the faucet.
When it comes to facial beauty and skincare, cold water and warm water can both work wonders, so choose according to your goals. Wash your face with cold water if you're suffering from under-eye bags. As it retracts and tightens your skin, it will help to reduce any puffiness. Cool water can also help close up your pores, giving off an even skin appearance. On the other end, the American Academy of Dermatology champions the benefits of lukewarm water for skin care. Considering most face cleansing products are designed to work best when applied with warm water, it's your go-to if there's nothing pressing to deal with.
Now, the big question is showering. Cold showers, as uncomfortable as they may be, can have some seriously positive effects on your body and skin. The cool water can: help to relieve itchy skin, wake you up in the morning with a bang, encourage blood circulation, help to burn fat, ease tight muscles after exercise and even boost hair shine. Hot showers, on the other hand, can help to clear up nasal congestion and provide relief from colds, open up pores and clear your skin, and also help to relax your muscles. If you suffer from dry skin or eczema, hot showers can worsen these conditions and should be avoided!
Can't decide which way to go? Dr. Gerrit Keferstein recommends a technique known as a contrast shower. Run the water as cold as you can handle and stand in it for one minute. For the next minute, take it as hot as you can handle. Continue to alternate between the two for three to five cycles. If you can cope with the constant change, it's a way to get the best of both worlds! Next, check out why drinking warm water is good for you!
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