7 Health & Beauty Benefits of Taking Cold Showers

The pursuit of health and beauty often leads us down unexpected paths, or in this case, into a cold shower. Much more than just a frigid wake-up call, cold showers offer an array of health and beauty benefits that may surprise you! 

Here, our Little Rock cosmetic surgery team invites you to dip your toe into the chilling yet charming world of cold showers and shares 7 health and beauty benefits.

How can cold showers enhance your health and beauty? 

The thought of stepping into a cold shower may give you the shivers, but the potential health benefits are compelling, and a cold shower may be an easy addition to your beauty regimen that offers some naturally beauty-boosting effects.

1. Improved circulation

Cold water constricts your blood vessels, and your body responds by boosting blood circulation to help maintain your core temperature. Nutrient and oxygen-rich blood is redistributed throughout your body to reach your skin and organs more effectively; this is especially helpful for post-workout recovery as the increased blood flow reduces the time it takes your muscles to recover. 

2. Healthier skin & hair

Hot water can strip the natural oils that keep your skin hydrated and compromise your protective skin barrier. Cooler water dissolves less oil and may help alleviate dry, irritated skin. A splash of cold water may even stimulate the tiny arrector pili muscles connected to your pores to help your pores appear smaller and your skin tighter for a smoother, more even complexion.

Additionally, there is some evidence that cold showers can help improve hair and scalp health. Just like it does with your skin, cold water can tighten the cuticles and pores in the scalp to help lock in moisture and support stronger, healthier hair.

3. Relieve stress

Believe it or not, a cold shower may be the new happy hour—don’t worry, you only need a few minutes to experience potential benefits! The cold water activates your sympathetic nervous system and increases the amount of beta-endorphins and noradrenaline in your blood. The rush of these “happy hormones” can help boost your mood, reduce stress, and even alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

4. Natural body contouring

Combining cold showers with a healthy diet and active lifestyle may help support weight loss. Shivering and the energy your body uses to keep you warm in cold temperatures burns calories. Cold showers can stimulate your body’s “good” fat (brown fat) to generate heat and help burn off the “bad” fat (white fat). While an icy shower is certainly not a substitute for proper nutrition and regular exercise, it may be worth adding to your routine! 

5. Boost your immune system

A brisk, cold shower can boost your immune system. Cold water exposure increases the production of white blood cells to help you fight off viruses and bacteria. One study showed a 29% decrease in self-reported sick days after participants ended their normal showers with a 30-90 second period of cold water for 30 consecutive days. (You may be able to save your sick leave for a much-deserved vacay!)

Cold showers are typically safe and potentially beneficial for most healthy people.

6. Brighten your under eyes 

A cold shower can help soothe and rejuvenate tired eyes; cool water contracts blood vessels to help reduce puffiness and dark circles around your eyes for a more refreshed look. 

7. Full body detox 

Being exposed to cold water enhances your lymphatic flow. The lymphatic system removes toxins and waste from your body, and increasing its ability to function efficiently contributes to your overall well-being and appearance.

Are cold showers right for everyone?

Cold showers are typically safe and potentially beneficial for most healthy people. We recommend you consult with your physician if you’re interested in trying cold water therapy and have any health concerns, including:

• Heart disease 
• Raynaud’s syndrome
• Skin reactions to cold temperatures (hives)

How to incorporate cold showers into your routine

There are several approaches you can take to reap the benefits of cold water therapy:

• You can gradually lower the temperature of your showers over a period of time. 
• You can shower normally with warm water and end with a cold rinse, gradually extending the cold rinse as your body adapts.
• You can jump right into a cold shower and slowly increase your time in the water. 

No matter which method you choose, start with 30 seconds (or less if you need to) and work your way up over time. There’s no definitive answer on the optimal length of a cold shower, but research suggests 2-3 minutes is plenty of time at a water temperature of 68 degrees (the lowest temperature on most showers is around 60 degrees). 

The Cosmetic Surgery Center is led by board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Rhys Branman. Along with his expert medical team and the aesthetics specialists at Exhale Med Spa, Dr. Branman believes in a holistic approach to cosmetic enhancements and uses cutting-edge procedures and treatments to complement your natural beauty. We offer a range of cosmetic surgery options for the face, breast, and body, and premium non-surgical treatments at our Little Rock med spa, including Botox & fillers, chemical peels, and laser treatments.   

We would be happy to meet with you and help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Call the Cosmetic Surgery Center at (501) 227-0707 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation at our Little Rock location today!