How the water temperature during washing affects the health and appearance of the hair
When wash day rolls around, you probably have a checklist: shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, heat protectant, etc.
One thing that probably isn't on that list is water.
Water is the ultimate hair-washing hero — you can't get the job done without it, but it's so crucial that you probably don't even think about it as a wash day component.
However, as it turns out, the temperature and quality of your water play a pretty big role in the health of your hair and scalp, Beauty and Health reports.
What happens if you wash your hair with hot water?
Advantages of washing hair with warm water; for example, higher temperatures open pores, which help shampoo and other products penetrate the scalp. Washing your hair with warm water can help remove dirt, product and grease more effectively than cold water.
Although higher temperatures make it easier for products to penetrate the scalp, hot water can strip the natural oils from the hair, which can dry out the hair and scalp and cause irritation and itchiness.
The condition of the scalp has a huge impact on hair growth and health, so a dry, unhealthy, flaky scalp can inhibit hair growth or weaken strands.
In addition to a dry and itchy scalp, washing your hair with hot water can also aggravate conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and eczema.
Washing your hair with hot water can also change the appearance of your hair. When hot water is used to wash your hair, your hair follicles are exposed to environmental and oxidative damage, which can lead to hair loss. Hair loss is accelerated due to the loosened grip of the damaged hair root. This can also lead to premature gray hairs.
And what about when you wash with cold water?
According to experts, there are many advantages — and a few significant disadvantages — to washing your hair with cold water.
Preserves natural oils: Unlike hot water, cold water does not dissolve natural oils, which is beneficial for the health and growth of the head and hair.
Shine is increased: Cold water works on the hair by closing the pores on the scalp, which increases the shine of the hair as the closing of the pores locks in moisture.
Additional moisture: As cold water can close the pores of the scalp, the natural moisture level of the hair is maintained, as well as the moisture you get from the conditioner. As a result, hair is better able to take advantage of the product's benefits, leaving it looking and feeling healthier and more hydrated.
Helps with Dandruff: Dandruff is the result of a dry scalp and needs moisture to heal. Since taking a cold shower helps the scalp retain moisture, this will in turn relieve dandruff and the irritation that comes with it.
Improves blood circulation in the scalp: Although using cold water to wash your hair may feel uncomfortable at first, it can help the blood in the deep tissues of the scalp to circulate faster. This helps maintain ideal body temperature as well as optimal health such as brain health, heart health and healing processes in the body.
Reduces volume: Cold water is great for helping hair retain moisture, but excess moisture can make hair look flat and less voluminous. While this won't happen to everyone, be aware of how your hair reacts to cold water. Additionally, try not to use cold water when the weather starts to get colder, especially during the winter.
Excess moisture: When hair retains moisture, it can leave too much oil on the scalp, which can make it look and feel greasy and flat.
Discomfort: Although not the worst mistake, cold water is not as comfortable and relaxing as warm or lukewarm water, and if you have never washed your hair in cold water, it will take some time to get used to it.
What is the best temperature for washing hair?
Most hair experts recommend washing your hair with lukewarm water. If you want to enjoy the benefits of cold water washing, it is advised to switch the water to cold towards the end of the shower to lock in the moisture.
If you have oily hair, you might want to finish with a hotter rinse to better remove oils and shampoo or conditioner.
Regarding the specific temperature, it is recommended to use water that is 38°C (which is slightly above normal body temperature) for washing hair. During the summer months, you can use water at a lower temperature.
