For many of us, a hot shower is the first thing we do in the morning, and often the last thing we do at night. It's a way to relax our muscles, ease our minds and prepare for the day. But are hot showers really the best way to start and end our day? Some experts say no. The claim is that cold showers offer a host of benefits, too, from improved circulation to better skin health. So, which is it? Should we be reaching for the cold knob or the hot one?

Benefits of a Cold Shower

1) Calming itchy skin
The cold water causes the blood vessels to constrict, which reduces inflammation, thus easing itchiness and allergic reactions. In addition, the sensation of cold water can help to distract from itchiness and provide a temporary reprieve.

2) Increases blood circulation
When you jump into a cold shower, your blood vessels constrict, and your heart rate increases as your body tries to keep warm. But as you acclimatise to the cold water, your blood vessels dilate and improve circulation. This increase in circulation delivers more oxygen-rich blood to your muscles, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling.

3) Glowing skin and hair
Cold water can help improve blood circulation near the skin, giving it a natural glow. It can also help seal the cuticles, leading to shinier, healthier-looking hair.

4) Keep you awake/alert
The shock of the cold water can help increase your heart rate and get your blood flowing to the brain. This burst of energy can then help to improve your mood, wake you up and increase your productivity – great for early starts and after exercise but probably not for before bed.

Benefits of a Hot Shower

1) Relaxes muscles
Hot water can help to massage and relax tense muscles, which can be especially beneficial after a long day or a tough workout. The heat can also help to open your airways and relieve congestion in the lungs and sinuses, making it a great option for people with a cold, flu, or covid.

2) Reduces stress
The warmth of a hot shower can help soothe the mind and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. It can also help release endorphins, which are the body's natural mood boosters.

3) Cleanses skin
Hot water helps to open pores and dislodge dirt, oil and other impurities from the skin. This deep cleaning can help to reduce the occurrence of breakouts. In contrast, cold showers make the pores contract, potentially trapping dirt and grease and making it harder to fully rinse away cleaning products and shampoo.

4) Lowers blood pressure
The heat of a hot shower can help to dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure. This can be beneficial for people with hypertension or other heart conditions, and for if you’re feeling stressed or depressed.

The Verdict

Hot showers offer many benefits and have an instinctive appeal not shared by cold showers, but the bracing rigour of a cold shower shouldn't be discounted either. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what feels best. Whichever you opt for, a shower pod is a great way to make the most of your shower experience. Shower pods offer the best of both worlds – with options for hot and cold water, you can customise your shower experience to suit your needs. Download your free Shower Pods Guide to get started.

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