Pros and Cons of Hot Showers

A cold shower in the morning exhilarates some people and wakes them hot. Other people prefer showers so hot that it can almost burn the skin. But what does the science say about it? Learn more about the pros and cons of hot showers over cold showers.

Pros of Hot Showers

Hot Showers Relax the Muscles 

People who experience tense muscles on a regular basis will find that a hot shower relaxes the muscles, especially after a strenuous workout.

Hot Showers Clear the Pores and Sinuses

The body contains numerous small pores throughout the skin. When these pores get clogged, it can result in oily skin and acne. Hot showers can help rinse out these pores, assisting in clear skin. 

Hot water can also help relieve stuffy sinuses, similar to how it helps to breathe in steam from a pot of water when you feel sick.

Hot Showers Feel Great

Ultimately, more people prefer how hot showers feel compared to cold showers. They’re just more comfortable, especially in the winter.

Cons of Hot Showers

Hot Showers Dry the Skin

Hot showers can dry the skin by removing natural oils, leaving the skin itchy and flaky. For people with certain pre-existing dry skin conditions, such as eczema, hot showers may exacerbate the condition.

Hot Showers Can Burn the Skin

Naturally, hot water can eventually burn the skin, especially if the user sets the temperature over 120°F. When temperatures reach 150°F, they can scald the skin with third degree burns after only 6 seconds.

Hot Showers Cost More Money 

Hot showers cost more money than cold showers, because they require more energy from the water heater. The higher the temperature and the longer the showers, the higher the utility bills.

Pros of Cold Showers

Cold Showers Increase Blood Circulation

Cold showers can create energy, and that’s because it literally gets the blood flowing due to its impact on the circulatory system. 

The perceived increase in energy is one of the main reasons researchers found 91% of study participants starting a new cold shower routine wanted to continue with it.

Cold Showers Numb Pain 

A 2014 study found that cold showers create the reduced pain response known as stress induced analgesia (SIA). The cold water works as a stress stimulus that produces SIA, reducing feelings of pain.

Cold Showers Cost Less



You can save quite a bit of money by choosing a cold shower over a hot shower. The lower the temperature, the less it will cost.

Cons of Cold Showers

Cold Showers Aren’t Comfortable 

Cold showers aren’t as agreeable as warm or hot showers. At least, at first. The body does get used to cold showers over time.

Cold Showers Can Hinder the Immune System 

Cold water shocks the body. This isn’t only uncomfortable, but it also shocks your body’s internal system. Specifically, your immune system. This is especially true for people already fighting a bug.

Your body’s immune system is the part of the body that fights foreign pathogens, keeping you healthy. When your immune system is diminished, you have a better chance of getting sick.

Cold Showers Lower Body Temperatures 

Cold showers lower a person’s body temperature. The cooling effect can be a welcome relief before going to bed on a hot, summer night. During the winter months, however, reduced body temperatures can leave someone susceptible to hypothermia.

What’s the Optimal Shower Temperature?

The optimal shower temperature varies based on skin, local climate, and personal preference. However, there are a couple of things you can consider:

• Opt for a lukewarm temperature
• Moisturize after hot showers
• Avoid cold showers in the winter and when sick

Buy a showerhead with advanced temperature control

U.S. Water Heating Solutions

Whatever temperature you like your showers, we at U.S. Water Heating Solutions can help you get hot water (or warm water) you can rely on. 

We provide a wide range of services for both residential and commercial water heaters, including:

• Water heater repair
• Water heater installation
• Water heater preventative maintenance
• Water heater replacement 
• Water heater warranty services 

Contact U.S. Water Heating Solutions to get a quote today!