Despite using multiple skincare products to achieve a radiant complexion, one of the simplest and most effective practices for maintaining healthy skin is washing your face twice a day, while adhering to certain guidelines. But have you ever wondered about the ideal water temperature for facial cleansing?

Proper cleansing is a vital part of any skincare routine, but it's equally important to do it correctly. Just as you carefully choose your facial cleanser by understanding its ingredients and their effects on your skin, it's crucial to be aware of how different water temperatures can impact your skin.

If you're someone who is passionate about skincare, chances are you already have a well-established skincare routine. However, you might still have some lingering questions that need answers. For instance, you might be curious about the notable differences between creams and lotions, or when it's the right time to introduce retinol into your routine. Even seemingly simple tasks like washing your face can raise questions, such as whether it's better to use cold or hot water.

The temperature of the water you use for cleansing your face does indeed have an impact, and there are pros and cons associated with both cold and hot water. 

Hot water

Although a steamy hot shower or face wash can provide a momentary sense of relaxation, it's not the ideal choice for your skin. Hot water can increase skin sensitivity and deplete essential natural oils, resulting in dryness. Regardless of your skin type, it's advisable to avoid cleansing with hot water. However, it's particularly crucial for people with dry or oily skin to be mindful of water temperature. Hot water exacerbates dryness in already dry skin, and even oily skin should avoid it. When natural oils are stripped away by hot water, oily skin might respond by producing more oil, leaving you with an excessively shiny complexion or, worse, causing clogged pores and unwelcome breakouts.

Benefits of hot water bath

As it is widely recognized, higher temperatures have the potential to eliminate a greater number of germs. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for a hot water bath as a means of detoxification. Scientific research indicates that immersing oneself in hot water enhances muscle flexibility and alleviates muscle soreness. This practice serves as a form of hot water therapy for relaxing the muscles. Moreover, taking a hot water bath can contribute to reducing sugar levels in the body, thereby decreasing the susceptibility to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Additionally, hot water baths have been found to be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of cough and cold. The steam produced during the bath helps to clear the airways and relieve congestion in the throat and nasal passages.

Cold water 

Opting for cold water over hot water when washing your face offers several advantages for your skin. There are multiple benefits associated with using cooler temperatures for facial cleansing.

Decrease puffiness

Cold water has the ability to constrict the blood vessels beneath the skin, leading to a reduction in facial puffiness.

Diminish redness

When you have recently exfoliated your skin or used products with active ingredients, using cold water to cleanse your face can help minimise redness and potential irritation.

Energises you

Taking a refreshing cold water bath in the morning can invigorate your senses and provide an energising start to your day. Additionally, it can help combat lethargy and promote a sense of alertness. Cold water baths have been found to increase the release of mood-enhancing chemicals like beta-endorphins, which can contribute to alleviating depression. 

Stimulates testosterone levels

Research indicates that cold water baths can positively impact male reproductive health by stimulating the release of testosterone. Moreover, they may have potential benefits for enhancing lung function.

Boosts immune system

The stimulation of the lymphatic and immune systems is another advantage of cold water baths. By promoting the production of infection-fighting cells, cold water baths can effectively boost the immune system.

Calms your skin

Cold water possesses soothing properties that can provide relief for specific skin conditions, including rosacea and acne. However, it's important to note a potential drawback of using cold water to wash your face. If the water is too cold, it may not effectively cleanse your skin since oils and makeup do not easily dissolve in cold water.

Optimal water temperature for washing your face

The ideal water temperature for washing your face lies between hot and cold, known as lukewarm. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that using lukewarm water offers the optimal experience for cleansing your face and enhances overall skin health.Lukewarm water enables your facial cleanser to generate the right amount of foam, effectively remove dirt from your skin's surface, and maintain a proper balance of natural skin oils.

Conclusion

The temperature of the water you use to wash your face plays a significant role in maintaining healthy skin. Hot water should be avoided as it can strip natural oils and cause dryness, while cold water offers benefits such as reducing puffiness and minimising redness. However, the optimal water temperature for facial cleansing is lukewarm, as it allows your cleanser to work effectively without compromising the balance of natural oils on your skin.

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician or doctor. The Company does not vouch for or endorse any of the above content, and disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, relating to the same.