When the temperature drops during the winter months, there’s nothing better than taking a hot shower. It’s a great way to warm up and relax, especially after a long day. However, using hot shower gels might not be the best idea.
Here are seven reasons why:.
1. They Can Dry Out Your Skin
Hot water and soaps are notorious for drying out the skin, especially during the winter months when your skin is already vulnerable.
Using a hot shower gel can worsen the problem, stripping away your skin’s natural oils and leaving it dry and itchy. If you have dry or sensitive skin, it’s better to opt for a mild soap or body wash that’s specifically formulated to moisturize the skin.
2. They Can Irritate Skin Conditions
If you have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, hot shower gels can aggravate your symptoms. The hot water can cause flare-ups and make your skin itch and burn.
It’s best to use lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free body washes that won’t exacerbate your skin condition.
3. They Can Damage Your Hair
Your hair may feel great after a hot shower, but the truth is that it’s not good for your hair. Hot water can strip away your hair’s natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. The heat can also damage the hair shaft and cause split ends.
If you want to keep your hair healthy during the winter, it’s best to use lukewarm water and a gentle shampoo that won’t dry out your hair.
4. They Can Make You Feel Lightheaded
Standing in a hot shower for too long can make you feel lightheaded and dizzy, especially if you have low blood pressure. The heat can cause your blood vessels to dilate and lower your blood pressure, leading to a feeling of dizziness.
This can be especially dangerous if you’re alone in the shower, so be careful and try not to stay in the shower for too long.
5. They Can Increase Your Water Bill
Hot showers use more water than cold showers, and they also use more energy to heat up the water. This means that using hot shower gels can lead to a higher water and energy bill.
If you want to save money and reduce your carbon footprint, try taking lukewarm showers instead of hot ones.
6. They Can Make You Smell Less Clean
Hot showers can make you feel clean and refreshed, but they can also make you smell less clean. The heat and steam can cause your body to sweat, which can lead to body odor.
This is especially true if you’re using a hot shower gel that’s heavily scented. If you want to avoid smelling less clean after a hot shower, try using a mild body wash that won’t leave a heavy scent or residue on your skin.
7. They Can Cause Burns
Hot water can be dangerous, especially if it’s too hot. If you’re using a hot shower gel and the water is too hot, you could end up with burns on your skin.
This is especially true if you have sensitive skin or if you’re not paying attention to the water temperature. To avoid burns, be mindful of the water temperature and test it before stepping into the shower.