Photo by Elina Fairytale
The ritual of bathing, a fundamental aspect of human routines, is often performed without much thought. Yet, could the timing of this seemingly mundane activity—be it at the break of dawn or under the cloak of night—bear implications for one’s well-being?
This question has sparked a fiery debate that has persisted for years, dividing individuals into two distinct factions: the morning shower enthusiasts and the night shower advocates. In the digital realm, content creators passionately defend their preferred bathing habits, with some even invoking the authority of science to bolster their arguments.
Despite the fervor of this dispute, the choice between morning and evening showers may not carry substantial consequences for one’s health. A consensus among healthcare professionals across various specialties suggests that the timing of showers is largely inconsequential—you are free to bathe at your leisure.
As Thomas Russo, MD, a distinguished professor and head of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo, succinctly puts it, “There is no scientific literature that says you need to shower in the morning or at night.”
While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation, medical experts suggest that certain factors may influence an individual’s optimal shower time. These factors are largely dependent on a person’s unique health conditions and personal preferences.
So, what do the experts have to say about the potential health effects of morning versus evening showers, and how can you determine which is the right choice for you? Let’s delve into the details.
The act of showering at the dawn’s break can be seen as a symbolic cleansing, a washing away of the remnants of the night.
As we surrender ourselves to the realm of sleep, our bodies become a fertile ground for bacteria and skin cells to proliferate, accumulating on our skin and sheets, as explained by Cindy Wassef, MD, an esteemed assistant professor of dermatology at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
Moreover, if nocturnal perspiration is a common occurrence for you, this too clings to your skin. A morning shower serves as a refreshing cleanse, washing away these unwanted remnants.
Beyond the realm of hygiene, the act of showering can also serve as a catalyst for morning alertness. Our bodies rely on certain stimuli to transition from the state of slumber to wakefulness, and a shower can serve as one such cue, according to W. Christopher Winter, MD, a renowned neurologist and sleep medicine physician with Charlottesville Neurology and Sleep Medicine, and host of the Sleep Unplugged podcast.
He suggests that if this ritual is performed consistently at the same time each day, it can act as a circadian marker, enhancing the sensation of wakefulness.
This effect can be further amplified by turning the shower dial towards the colder end of the spectrum. This triggers the body to release neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone, thereby stimulating wakefulness.
Setting aside the benefits of alertness and cleanliness, opting for a morning shower may simply be a matter of practicality or convenience, especially for those who engage in physical exercise upon waking.
A 2018 consumer intelligence survey revealed that approximately half of Americans who have a preferred workout time choose to exercise in the morning. If you fall into this category, it is most beneficial to shower post-workout.
Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, explains, “The goal of a shower is to remove soiling from the skin, so the best time to shower is after your biggest exposure to sweat, dirt, and oils. For most people, this is after exercise.”
While the merits of a morning shower are undeniable, the case for an evening rinse is equally compelling, offering a plethora of benefits.
Firstly, an evening shower serves as a cleansing ritual, washing away the grime and pathogens accumulated over the course of the day. This practice ensures that you retire to bed in a state of cleanliness, thereby preserving the sanctity of your sheets, as pointed out by Zeichner.
While this may not serve as a foolproof shield against illness, as Russo clarifies, it could be beneficial for those who are immunocompromised or live with someone who is. An evening shower can help rid the body of any germs that may have been picked up during the day’s activities.
This is particularly relevant for those plagued by seasonal allergies. An evening rinse can help eliminate any residual pollen, potentially averting the onset of nocturnal allergy symptoms.
Another compelling reason to opt for an evening shower pertains to individuals with skin conditions such as eczema. As Wassef explains, environmental irritants and pollutants can exacerbate certain skin diseases. If you find yourself frequently exposed to these elements, an evening shower to cleanse your skin might be a prudent choice.
Moreover, for those with dry or eczema-prone skin, the process of moisturizing can be somewhat laborious. In such cases, an evening shower might prove more convenient.
Individuals with these skin conditions might benefit from applying a water-based lotion first, followed by a thin layer of an oil-based moisturizer like Vaseline, as suggested by Ife J. Rodney, MD, the founding director of Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics and a professor of dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. This regimen effectively seals the moisture into your skin.
However, these layers can feel somewhat heavy in the morning or potentially stain your clothes, making an evening shower a more appealing option.
Lastly, an evening shower can serve as a gentle nudge to your body, signaling that it’s time to unwind and prepare for sleep. Just as a morning shower can act as a wake-up call, an evening shower can serve a similar function in easing the transition to sleep, as explained by Winter.
He elaborates that the process of raising your body temperature before bed, followed by the subsequent cooling, can act as a natural sleep trigger. This is due to the rapid decline in body temperature that typically occurs in the evening, signaling to the body that it’s time for sleep.
While the allure of both morning and evening showers is undeniable, attempting to indulge in both could prove to be not only unnecessary but potentially detrimental, as dermatologists caution.
Wassef warns that excessive showering can rob the skin and hair of their natural moisture, leaving them parched and devoid of their usual luster.
In the event that a second shower becomes necessary—perhaps due to an unexpected bout of perspiration or an unplanned midday workout—Rodney suggests opting for a cleansing oil or moisturizing cleanser in lieu of traditional soap.
She explains, “Employing soap twice a day can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness.”
When it comes to determining your optimal shower schedule, several factors warrant consideration. These include your typical exercise routine, any existing skin conditions or allergies, and potential sleep concerns. However, the ideal shower time ultimately boils down to personal preference and convenience.
As Rodney aptly puts it, “It’s really whatever aligns with your lifestyle.”
Surces: Original article.