Skin10 min
A Lukewarm Bath Instead of a Very Hot One in Winter
Keeping bath water comfortably warm rather than steaming hot, and keeping it short, to stop skin drying and itching. A simple habit change.
Less heat, less dryness
A steaming hot bath feels lovely in winter but strips the skin's natural oils and leaves it tight and itchy. Comfortably warm water cleans just as well and is gentler.
Keep the bath to about ten minutes, use a mild soap only where needed and pat dry. Hot water on the face is especially drying. This is a simple habit change and not a treatment for dry skin conditions.
Ingredients
- A bucket of comfortably warm water
- A mild soap or cleanser
- A soft cotton towel
How to prepare
- Mix hot and cool water until it feels pleasantly warm on your wrist.
- Keep the bathroom warm so you do not rush.
How to use
- Bathe for about ten minutes.
- Follow with a little moisturiser on damp skin.
Helpful habits
- Wash the face with cooler water.
- Use soap only on underarms and groin.
Precautions
- Very hot water can scald children and older adults; always test it.
- Persistent itching or rashes need a doctor.
- A habit change, not a treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is a hot bath bad?
- Not harmful occasionally, but daily very hot baths can dry skin.
What about hair?
- Use warm water at the roots and a cooler final rinse.
Is it fine for babies?
- Test the water carefully and follow your doctor's advice.
