Taking a hot, relaxing shower after a long day can be quite therapeutic, but is the hot water drying out your skin? Hot showers do help when it comes to stress and they can even clear up nasal congestion when you are sick. It is important to realize though, that hot water mixed with dry indoor air can really take a toll on your body.

Why is dry skin bad?

Skin is a vital component of the body, and if it is dry, it cannot do what it is supposed to. The skin is the largest organ and it controls body temperature and protects the body from germs.

The proteins and fats on the skin allow moisture to lock in and protect the body from the harsh outside environments. Not only does hot water affect the skin negatively, so does dry air in the home.

What do hot showers do to your skin?

When the skin is exposed to hot water, it can cause inflammation and irritation. In fact, it can have similar effects to a sunburn and can cause the skin’s natural balance to be disrupted while stripping it of its natural moisture, fats, oils, and proteins.

So, what can you do to fight back?

When washing hands or taking a bath or shower, make sure the water temperature is cooled down to lukewarm water. This helps the skin stay hydrated and strong and prevents it from drying out.

We also recommend limiting showers to 10 minutes or less and consider having a humidification installed in your home. On top of that, we encourage you to use moisturizers daily and drink plenty of water.

Struggling with dry air in your home? We’re here to help! Levine and Sons has years of humidity control experience and can help you choose the right system for your unique needs. Give us a call today!