Bathing with hot or cold water: What is better for hair, skin and circulation?

Beyond a simple hygiene habit, The daily shower directly influences physical and emotional well -being. According to specialists, the water temperature not only affects the immediate sensation of activation or relaxation, but also the status of the skin, hair and circulatory system. Choosing between hot, cold or warm water can make a significant difference according to the health objectives of each person. Ducha with cold water causes an alert response in the body. According to Dr. Christopher Babiuch, a doctor from Cleveland Clinic, this type of shower generates vasoconstriction, that is, a contraction of blood vessels, which increases the flow to vital organs. This response activates the sympathetic nervous system, raising heart and respiratory ratewhich can translate into an immediate sensation of energy. According to the dermatologist Glenda scaleaya, this physiological reaction also stimulates the release of norepinephrine and endorphins, neurotransmitters associated with the improvement of mood and the reduction of mild depression symptoms. In addition, the occupational doctor Marita Ramos added that brief exposure to cold water can strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, reduce muscle pain and favor recovery After intense physical exercise. Stop with cold water causes an alert response in organisms Hutterstocken contrast, showering with hot water generates vasodilation, which expands blood vessels and promotes the general relaxation of the body. Calaya indicated that this process activates the parasympathetic nervous system, associated with calm, stress reduction and preparation for night rest. Cardiologist Juan Ramírez, of the International Clinic, explained that this type of shower can be especially useful in people with mild hypertension, since it helps reduce blood pressure. In addition, when relaxing the muscles and relieving accumulated tensions, Hot water can improve sleep quality and reduce muscle discomfort.

Hot water:

Dermatologist Elba Naccha warned that Hot water showers can damage the skin barriereliminating the natural bait of the skin and favoring dryness, sensitivity or peeling. Heat can also activate inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, generating itching or irritation, especially in sensitive skin or with dermatological pathologies. Regarding hair, Marita Ramos explained that hot water opens the hair cuticle, which facilitates deep cleaning. However, you can also leave hair more vulnerable to dehydration, frizz and loss of brightness.

Cold water:

Cold water can be beneficial for fatty or irritated skin, since it helps to close the pores and reduce inflammation. It also has a soothing effect, ideal for people with skin sensitivity. Regarding hair, it contributes to closing the capillary cuticle, which allows to retain hydration, improve brightness and reduce fat production in the scalp.

Warm water:

According to Calaya, warm water is the most balanced option for very dry skin or with conditions such as atopic dermatitis. It is also adequate for dry hair, damaged or treated chemically, since it avoids thermal aggressions and helps preserve the balance of the scalp. Water temperature also influences circulation and cardiovascular system. Cold water causes vasoconstriction that can increase temporarily blood pressure. This reaction improves venous return and can be beneficial to relieve swelling or heaviness in the legs. Besides, After exposure to cold, there is a reactive vasodilation that favors microcirculation.The water temperature also influences the circulation and cardiovascular system (Photo: Freepik) However, people with non -controlled hypertension or coronary heart disease, this response can represent a risk. Ramírez explained that the abrupt increase in oxygen demand by the heart can trigger angina or other adverse events. By its part, hot water favors greater oxygenation of tissues and helps reduce blood pressure, which is beneficial for people with mild hypertension. However, in patients with serious cardiovascular diseases, the decrease in pressure can cause dizziness, syncope or even ischemia. In cases of varicose veins or venous insufficiency, hot water can aggravate congestion and increase the sensation of heaviness. On the other hand, cold water improves venous return and reduces edema. Contrast showers consist of alternating hot and cold water in short cycles. This technique, used in physiotherapy and sports medicine, generates a vascular pumping effect that stimulates circulation, improves lymphatic drainage and favors muscle recovery after exercise. Dr. Ramírez explained that this type of shower can relieve symptoms of fatigue, inflammation and heaviness, in addition to improving the alert state. However, he warned that its use is not indicated for people with active cardiovascular diseases or un controlled blood pressure, due to the risk of adverse reactions to thermal stress. Cold showers (20 to 25 ° C) are appropriate in the morning or after exercise. The hot ones should not exceed 38 ° C to avoid damage to skin or hair Leonardo Maine – Archive the country

Contraindications: Who should avoid extreme temperatures?

Dr. Babiuch said people with hypertension, diabetes, peripheral neuropathies or vascular disorders They should avoid sudden temperature changes. In addition, Calaya mentioned that those who suffer from heart failure, arrhythmias, severe hypotension, Raynaud phenomenon or regional dysfunction must also refrain from showering with extremely cold or hot water without medical supervision.

Adequate temperature:

Dr. Babiuch stressed that there is no universal ideal temperature, but depends on personal goals. Cold showers (20 to 25 ° C) are appropriate in the morning or after exercise. The hot ones should not exceed 38 ° C to avoid damage to the skin or hair.

Recommended duration:

The internist Juan Manuel Jiménez recommended limiting the showers between 5 and 15 minutes. The hot ones must last less than 10 minutes; Las Frías, between 2 and 4 minutes. For contrast showers, it is suggested to alternate 30 seconds of cold water with 1 to 2 minutes of hot water, in cycles of up to four repetitions.

Moment of the day:

Cold showers are recommended in the morning or after intense physical activities. The hot ones are more suitable at night, to induce rest and reduce accumulated tensions.By elim Johana Alonso Dorado