Washing your face is an essential daily ritual to maintain healthy and radiant skin. However, a common question that arises in the facial care routine is: is it better to use hot or cold water? It's not just about personal preferences, but about knowing how temperature affects our skin.
Learn the advantages and disadvantages of each skin care option, so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.
BENEFITS OF COLD WATER FOR YOUR SKIN
REDUCES INFLAMMATION AND SWELLING
Cold water is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and swelling . This is especially helpful in the morning, when many people wake up with a swollen face. Applying cold water can help reduce that swelling, providing a fresher and more awake appearance .
IMPROVES BLOOD CIRCULATION
When the skin comes into contact with cold water, blood vessels constrict and then dilate, which can improve blood circulation in the face. Better circulation can result in a healthier, more vibrant skin tone.
CLOSE THE PORES
Cold water can help close pores after cleansing. Not only can this make pores look smaller , but it can also help prevent dirt and bacteria from entering, reducing the risk of acne breakouts.
FEELING OF FRESHNESS AND VITALITY
Cold water provides a refreshing and revitalizing sensation, which can be especially pleasant on hot days or after a workout.
DISADVANTAGES OF COLD WATER
LESS EFFICIENCY IN CLEANING
Cold water may not be as effective in removing excess oil and dirt built up on the skin, especially if makeup products or sunscreen have been used.
LESS OPENING OF THE PORES
Although pore tightening can be a benefit, it can also be a drawback in terms of deep cleansing . Cold water doesn't open your pores as much as hot water, which can make it harder to remove impurities .
BENEFITS OF HOT WATER
OPENING THE PORES
Hot water helps open pores, making it easier to remove dirt , oil , and makeup residue. This can result in a deeper, more effective clean.
RELAXATION AND STRESS RELIEF
Hot water has a relaxing effect on the body and mind. Washing with hot water can be a pleasant way to start or end the day, helping to reduce stress and tension.
IMPROVE ABSORPTION OF FACIAL CARE PRODUCTS
Hot water prepares the skin to better absorb facial care products, such as serums and moisturizers. Open pores allow active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin.
| To maintain a healthy balance in sebum production and sebaceous gland health, it is recommended to use warm water to wash your face. Warm water is hot enough to effectively clean away excess oil and dirt without completely removing the natural oils that protect and keep skin hydrated. |
DISADVANTAGES OF HOT WATER
RISK OF DRYNESS AND DEHYDRATION
Hot water can eliminate the skin's natural oils , causing dryness , dehydration and an imbalance of the microbiota , preventing the correct functioning of its barrier effect. This is especially harmful for people with dry or sensitive skin.
IRRITATION POTENTIAL
Using water that is too hot can cause redness and irritation , especially in sensitive skin or skin prone to conditions such as rosacea.
| Hot water is worse for the skin's immune system, as it helps eliminate its natural oils, which can cause irritation and alter the skin microbiota. Although cold water has its disadvantages, especially in terms of cleansing, it does not have as negative an impact on the skin barrier and microbiota as hot water. |
EXCESSIVE DILATION OF THE PORES
Although opening the pores can be beneficial for cleansing, excessive dilation can make the skin more vulnerable to the entry of bacteria and contaminants.
THE PERFECT BALANCE: WARM WATER
The best option is the intermediate point. Warm water has multiple benefits for the health of your skin.
Warm water offers the benefits of both extremes without their main disadvantages. It opens the pores enough to allow effective cleansing , but not so much that it causes excessive dilation. Additionally, warm water is less likely to cause dryness or irritation compared to hot water.
| Hot water can strip the skin of its natural sebum, causing a cycle of dehydration and oil overproduction that can lead to problems like oily skin and acne. The additional irritation caused by hot water can also make these problems worse. |
Ultimately, the temperature you choose to wash your face can have a significant impact on the health and appearance of your skin. While cold water can revitalize and reduce inflammation, hot water can provide a deeper cleanse and relax the skin.
The general opinion of dermatologists , as can be seen in various publications, including those of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), warm water represents an ideal balance, offering effective cleansing without the risks of dryness and irritation.
Also remember that the use of gentle cleansing products suitable for your skin type is as important as the temperature of the water.
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