What is the best water temperature for washing hair?

The temperature of the water can significantly affect the health 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 essential that you probably don’t even think about it as a wash day component. However, the temperature and quality of the water play a pretty big role in the health of your hair and scalp.

What happens if you wash your hair with hot water?
Advantages of washing hair with hot water; for example, higher temperatures open the pores, which helps shampoo and other products penetrate the scalp. Washing your hair with hot water can help remove dirt, product and grease more effectively than cold water.

Although warmer temperatures make it easier for products to penetrate the scalp, hot water can strip the hair of its natural oils, 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 hair.

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 hair, 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 graying of hair.

And what if you wash it with cold water?
According to experts, there are many advantages – and a few significant disadvantages – to washing your hair with cold water.

Advantages:
Preserves natural oils: Unlike hot water, cold water does not dissolve natural oils, which is beneficial for the health and growth of the scalp and hair.

Shine is increased: Cold water works on the hair by closing the pores of the scalp, thereby increasing the shine of the hair as moisture is retained by closing the pores.

Extra moisture: Because cold water can close the pores of the scalp, the hair’s natural moisture level 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, 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 showering with cold water helps the scalp retain moisture, this in turn will relieve dandruff and the irritation that comes with it.

Improves blood circulation in the scalp: Although using cold water to wash your hair may initially feel uncomfortable, 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.

Disadvantages:
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. Also, try not to use cold water when the weather starts to get colder, especially in 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: While not the worst mistake, cold water isn’t as comfortable and relaxing as hot or lukewarm water, and if you’ve never washed your hair in cold water, it will take some getting used to.

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 washing with cold water, it is advisable to switch the water to cold towards the end of the shower to retain moisture.

If you have oily hair, you may want to finish with a warmer 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.