Average Shower Temperature: A Guide To The Perfect Shower Experience

We all love getting home from a hard day's work and relaxing in a hot and steamy shower to melt off the day's stresses. You know the one. The one where the bathroom gets thick and steamy and your skin turns red from the shower. But, has it ever occurred to you that this may be doing more harm than good? Have you ever considered that a lot of our common skin complaints are directly related to shower temperature? Have you ever wondered what the correct shower temperature is? Let's take a look at some answers to these questions.

Average Shower Temperature

The average shower temperature in the US is 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Each individual has their preferences on shower temperature, and women generally like theirs to be hotter. But the average hot water heater can heat up to 140 degrees. That is hot enough to burn your skin within 5 seconds! Most dermatologists recommend showering in no more than 99 degrees. So, what kind of harm are we doing to our skin with hot showers? How is prolonged use affecting us daily?

Effects of Hot Water on Our Skin

Our skin has a protective oil called sebum. Hot showers strip your skin of this oil and effectively dries out your glands. This leaves your skin red, inflamed, and itchy.

Do you take hot showers and suffer from eczema? Try lowering your shower temperature to lukewarm (about 99 degrees) and adding a good moisturizer to your routine.

Oily acne prone skin? It may be your skin's way of trying to overcompensate for the loss of moisture in the shower. Washing with warm water will open and clean those pores, but they need to be closed back up. Splashing a bit of cold water on after cleansing and following with SPF moisturizer will help close your pores and seal in moisture.

Using hot water to clean your face isn't bad. It is just advised to keep it only on your face, and for short amounts of time. Steams are great for clearing the skin and making it soft.

Effects on Your Hair

Your hair will also thank you. Hot water opens the hair follicles, making it hard to retain any moisture which leads to brittle split ends. Cooler showers will help strengthen your hair and close up your hair follicle to lock in moisture. This will make your hair looking shinier and healthier.

Do you die your hair? Cooler showers might even help keep your die from fading, making it last longer between trips to the salon. If you regularly bleach your hair, washing it in lukewarm water will help retain protein that is normally lost in the process.

Heat can be beneficial if used properly. If doing a deep conditioning treatment. Use hot water only on your hair to open its follicle. Add your deep conditioner, and when its time to rinse use cold water. This will lock as much moisture as possible by closing the hair follicle.

Other Effects to Your Health

If your average shower temperature is above 110 degrees, you could be at risk of lowering your blood pressure. The hot water dilates your blood vessels, which in turn lowers your heart rate. These sudden and drastic drops in blood pressure can leave you feeling weak and lightheaded. If you are dehydrated also, you could very well faint in the shower. Shower falls come with all sorts of risks, we've all seen the commercials. Keeping your shower temperatures to no more than 105 will prevent this from happening. If you want to attach a water filter in your shower, read the review from www.heavybubbles.com

Effects on Your Utilities

Using extremely hot water not only runs up your gas bill (or electric), but it also puts more wear and tear on any appliances used by the same hot water heater. So not only will lowering your average shower temperature help you, but it will also help your wallet.

For every 10 degrees that you lower your hot water heater, you can save anywhere from 3 to 5 percent on utilities. Also, with your hot water heater being cranked up too high, it will decrease the lifespan of it. So, you will have to shell out more money faster than you probably would really like to for a replacement.

Effects on Our Environment

If everyone in the US lowered their average shower temperature, it would have a huge impact on our carbon footprint. Most hot water tanks are run off gas. Gas is 29% of the United States’ energy consumption. Reducing the use of gas fossil fuel will help with reducing carbon emissions, and lowering the waste produced by these companies.

These are non-renewable resources. Currently, the US only has enough natural gas to sustain itself for 90 years. With over 85 percent of the United States using natural gas, this could be higher or lower depending on usage.

Keeping Temperature Under Control

This isn't to say that you can NEVER have a hot shower but cutting back will improve your hair and skin’s health. Any time you decide to take a hot shower or bath, always take precautions and use a good lotion or body oil after to help quench your skin. A good body oil to use after a hot shower would be Jojoba oil. It is the closest to sebum that you can get.

If you have trouble making sure that your average shower temperature isn't too high, try setting your hot water heater to 120 degrees. Which is still hot enough to scald within 10 minutes, but low enough that it will prevent serious burns. If all else fails, get a shower thermometer. They attach directly to your shower head and will tell you exactly what the water temperature is.

Colder showers might not make the stress melt away, but there are many benefits to them. Your skin, hair, wallet, and the planet will thank you later, which seems worth it to me. Maybe switching to morning showers will help wake you up a bit without the coffee? All of your problems will be blown away because you will have glowing skin and flawless hair, thanks to one minor adjustment. If you enjoyed reading this article please take a look at our Best Shower Curtains reviews. 

Finding the perfect shower temperature can be a delicate balance, as it plays a significant role in our overall shower experience and affects our skin's health. Whether you prefer a hot shower to unwind after a long day or a refreshing cold shower to energize you in the morning, understanding the importance of average shower temperature is essential. We will explore the best practices for determining the ideal shower temperature, how to adjust your showerhead, and expert advice on shower temperature and skin health. Discover the secrets to enjoying the perfect shower experience while maintaining your skin's health and well-being.

Understanding The Importance Of Shower Temperature

Showering is more than just a routine; it's an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. Hot showers can help melt away stress, while cold showers can invigorate the senses. However, finding the right balance between hot water and cold water is essential for maintaining your skin’s health. Dermatologists recommend lukewarm water as it's gentle on the skin and can prevent scalding. Striking the right water temperature ensures an enjoyable shower or bath while keeping your skin soft and supple.

Determining The Best Shower Temperature For You

The ideal shower temperature varies from person to person, but it’s generally advised to keep it around 37°C (98.6°F), close to the average body temperature. Hot water can strip your skin of natural oils, while cold water might be too shocking for some. For sensitive skin, shower water temperature should be adjusted according to individual comfort. It's best to set the temperature on your water heater to a safe level, ensuring a comfortable shower or bath while minimizing the risk of burns.

Mastering The Art Of Adjusting Shower Temperature

Setting the right temperature for your shower can be tricky, but with a bit of practice, you'll find the sweet spot that's perfect for you. A general rule is to avoid water hot enough to turn your skin red, as it can lead to dryness and irritation. If you have a thermostatic showerhead, it will help maintain a consistent temperature, making it easier to enjoy a soothing shower. For those with sensitive or itchy skin, using lukewarm water can help minimize irritation while still providing a relaxing experience.

Expert Advice On Shower Temperature And Skin Health

Dermatologists advise that maintaining the right shower temperature is crucial for your skin's health, especially for those with eczema or other skin conditions. Hot water can cause itchiness and redness, while colder showers may help soothe irritated skin. Hot water opens up pores, making it easier to wash away dirt and bacteria. However, it's essential to moisturize after a shower to prevent skin from becoming too dry. Balancing the shower water temperature will help keep your skin happy and healthy.

Shower Safety And Enjoyment Tips

Showering should be a relaxing and indulgent experience, but it's also essential to keep safety in mind. Setting your water heater to a maximum of 41°C (105.8°F) can help prevent scalding, especially for small children. After a long day, a warm shower can help you unwind and soothe tired muscles, but be cautious not to become lightheaded from the heat. Mixing hot and cold water to find the perfect temperature will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable shower, while still taking care of your skin's needs.

Conclusion

In the end, It is concluded that finding the ideal shower temperature is crucial for a comfortable and rejuvenating experience while keeping your skin healthy. By adhering to the recommended safe temperature range between 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit, you can maintain your core body temperature and promote healthy blood flow. Installing a thermostatic showerhead helps regulate the temp, ensuring a pleasant experience, whether you prefer hot or cold showers. It's essential to avoid irritating your skin with water that's too hot and to replenish your skin's natural sebum with a moisturizer after showering. As you explore the perfect shower temperature for your skin, remember that striking the right balance between tepid and warm water will lead to a more enjoyable and beneficial shower routine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’ve still got questions about average shower temperature, then these may help:

What Is The Average Shower Temperature?

The average shower temperature typically ranges between 37-40°C (98.6-104°F), which is close to the body's core temperature. This temperature provides a comfortable balance between hot and cold water, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for most people. However, individual preferences and skin sensitivity may lead to slight variations in the ideal shower temperature for each person.

What Is The Highest Bath Temperature?

The highest bath temperature recommended for a safe and comfortable experience is around 40-41°C (104-105.8°F). Beyond this point, water becomes too hot and can lead to burns, scalding, or skin irritation. It's important to exercise caution when taking a hot bath, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures may affect blood circulation and cause lightheadedness or dizziness.

Is There Any Benefit Of The Hot Shower?

Hot showers offer several benefits, such as helping to lower stress levels and relax tense muscles. Hot water allows for better blood circulation by dilating blood vessels, providing a soothing effect. However, it's essential not to crank the temperature too high, as water above 110 degrees can strip natural oils and cause skin irritation or dryness. Following the general rule of keeping the shower temperature around 105 degrees ensures a pleasant experience without harming your skin.

Is 40 C Hot For A Shower?

A 40°C (104°F) shower is considered warm and comfortable for most people. It provides a pleasant balance between hot and cold water, offering relaxation without causing skin irritation. However, individual preferences and skin sensitivities may vary, so it's essential to find the temperature that works best for you. Always be cautious when adjusting shower temperature to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

What Temperature Is Unsafe For Bath?

Bath temperatures above 41°C (105.8°F) are considered unsafe, as they can lead to burns, scalding, or skin irritation. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can also affect blood circulation, causing lightheadedness or dizziness. It's essential to exercise caution when taking a hot bath and adjust the temperature to a comfortable and safe level for a relaxing experience.