Can the temperature of your water have an effect on your face? You may have heard the statement that washing your skin with hot water is bad for your complexion but is this a fact or fiction? In this article, we delve into the topic of water temperature to see if it could be damaging your skin.
What does water temperature have to do with washing your face?
Well, it all goes back to science. You may have heard that warm water will open your pores and cold water will close them, almost like a contraction. The issue with this theory is that your pores have no muscles, so they technically can’t be shrunk. This theory has evolved from the science that things natural expand when exposed to high temperatures.
Why are hot temperatures bad for your skin?
Although your pores won’t alter when exposed to hot water, your blood vessels could potentially dilate, causing your complexion to become red. If your blood vessels burst, you’ll be left with red spots under the skin. Hot water also causes dryness as heat strips the natural oils from your skin. Consequently, your skin may suffer from irritation. This is especially important to remember during the winter when we are most likely to crank the temperature up.
What about cold water?
Cold water is less damaging than hot water, but it could still present issues for your complexion. Cold water makes it difficult to remove excess sebum which could cause problems for oily skin as this may lead to clogged pores and blemishes.
What is the best temperature for your skin?
Using lukewarm water is the most effective temperature for washing your skin as you’ll be able to remove dirt, grime and oil (remember to use a gentle cleanser) but you won’t risk damaging your skin. Just ensure that you test your water beforehand to check it’s not too hot or too cold.
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