As soon as winter begins and after waking up in the morning, the biggest question that often arises is whether one should take a bath or not. Even if we have decided to take a bath, the next problem is whether we should take a bath with hot or cold water. Many people believe that it is better to take bath with hot water in winter because it relaxes the body, removes fatigue and provides relief from cold. However, some people argue that hot water is harmful for both skin and hair as it removes the body’s natural oily layer. So let us tell you today whether it is better to take bath with hot water or cold water in winter.
What do experts say?
A 2022 report in the International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development said that hot water damages the outer layer of skin cells, increasing the risk of skin diseases like eczema. Many doctors also recommend that in winter, one should drink only lukewarm water and avoid very hot water. Too hot water makes the skin dry, which is called xerosis. Some experts also say that the natural oil present on the upper layer of the body protects the skin from bacteria and dust. When we use very hot water, this oil layer comes off completely, which increases itching, redness and dryness.
What are the disadvantages of bathing with cold water?
Experts say that suddenly bathing with cold water in extreme cold can be dangerous for the body. Actually, due to very cold water falling on the body, the blood vessels shrink, due to which the blood pressure can suddenly increase and the heart beat can become faster. It also increases the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in people who already have heart or blood pressure problems.
What do doctors say?
Doctors say that bathing with very cold water can cause problems like chilblains, which can cause swelling, irritation and blueness in the hands and feet. Doctors say that bathing with lukewarm water in winter is the safest and most comfortable. It is important to apply moisturizer afterward to maintain skin moisture. People in rural areas often bathe with hand pump or borewell water, which may feel cold or hot depending on the season. Experts say that this water often contains high amount of minerals, due to which it becomes hard. Such water strips away the natural oily layer of the skin and damages the hair structure. For this reason, doctors always recommend using lukewarm water for bathing, whether it is winter or summer.
