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Stepping into a shower at the end of a long summer day can be refreshing. After a sweaty and sticky day, there are few things that can give you that relief your body and skin so badly need. But what temperature is best for a summer shower?
You might tend to go for the super cold and quick shower to cool off. When the temperatures rise, it is natural to want to jump into a cold pool or take a super cold shower, even if just for a few seconds. Even though it sounds logical to take a really cold shower to cool down in the summer heat, water that is too cold can actually have the opposite effect, according to The New York Post.
Consider taking warm or room-temperature showers instead. You don’t have to take a hot shower, which can make you feel even warmer. Water that is more similar to your body temperature is what is recommended. The temperature of your shower can do so much for your skin, mood and overall health
The Perks of Warm Summer Showers
When the days get hot, your body acts to cool off and regulate your temperature naturally. One of the main ways, according to The Conversation, is through sweat.
About 22 percent of your body’s heat is lost by sweating. So although uncomfortable and not the most pleasant thing, sweating can actually be great for you, because it means your body is working to regulate your temperature.
When you are hot and sticky, a freezing cold shower might seem like the best solution. But you might want to think twice.
For people with high blood pressure or heart conditions, sudden exposure to cold water can be risky. When your overheated body is exposed to cold water, it can trigger a reaction where your body tries to conserve heat. Although rare, for some people it can cause something called cold shock response, where blood pressure rises and their heart starts working harder.
Instead, taking a warm or room-temperature shower is typically best, and can even help you get cleaner than a cold shower. And if you do want to end off with some cold water, the best thing to do is turn down the temperature gradually so your body can adapt to the different temperatures.
Another perk is a warm shower can help you wind down and relax you, especially in the evenings. Warm water can help soothe your muscles and get you into the perfect calm and pre-bedtime mindset.
Stay Cool in the Summer
Keeping yourself cool in the summer is important but air conditioning can be expensive and use a lot of energy. Instead, the BBC recommends using fans in your home to keep the air flowing and enhance the breeze. This can especially feel good on your skin after your warm shower and help you dry off faster.
Remember to be safe and use sunscreen, stay hydrated, restrict exercise to the cooler parts of the day, and keep cool during these super hot months.
Keep in mind that when you want an energizing and comfortable shower, choose a warm, lukewarm or room temperature one, even after your workouts. Your body and your mood will thank you for it.
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