Bathing and shampooing are daily routines, especially during hot summer days. However, many people are unaware of whether they should shower or shampoo first, and how this affects their health.
Does it matter if you shower or shampoo first?
Bathing and shampooing have a significant impact on overall health, beyond just skin health. Improper showering habits can lead to illnesses such as colds and, in extreme cases, even sudden death. Pouring water over the body causes a change in body temperature, and without a gradual adjustment, the body can go into shock when exposed to cold water, leading to sudden changes in blood pressure.
Therefore, it is crucial to follow a proper sequence when bathing and shampooing, allowing the body to gradually adjust to the water temperature. Start by wetting your hands and feet first, then the rest of your body, and finally, your head and hair. This gives your body time to prepare and adapt to the water.
The importance of bathing and shampooing
Both traditional wisdom and scientific advice suggest showering before shampooing. According to TS.BS Wu Li-Fen, Deputy Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Qianwei Hospital in Jilin, China, proper bathing and shampooing habits can effectively relieve fatigue, improve sleep quality, prevent diseases, promote health, enhance beauty, and even slow down aging. When it comes to personal hygiene, it is recommended to start by wetting your hands and feet first, allowing your body to adjust to the water, and then proceed to a full-body shower. Only when your body is accustomed to the water temperature should you wet your hair and scalp. This practice helps prevent sudden changes in brain blood circulation, which can occur when there is a drastic change in temperature.
During hot summer days, it is tempting to immediately cool down by standing under the showerhead or pouring water over your head. However, this abrupt change in temperature can lead to a stroke or a cold due to changes in blood circulation. Additionally, when the weather is cold, and you use hot water, starting with your head can cause the blood vessels to suddenly expand due to the temperature change, leading to a dangerous condition called cerebral vascular disease. In hot weather, when the body is already warm, pouring cold water directly over your head can cause a rapid drop in body temperature, which the body may struggle to adapt to.
Hence, the best practice is to start by wetting your feet, then the rest of your body, and only then proceed to shampoo your hair, ensuring your body has adjusted to the water temperature.
Important considerations for bathing and shampooing to maintain good health
– Never bathe on an empty stomach, as it can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness and fainting due to low blood sugar levels.
– Avoid bathing immediately after a heavy meal, as it can interfere with digestion. It is advisable to wait for at least an hour or two after eating before taking a shower.
– Refrain from bathing when you are sweating profusely. After intense exercise or physical labor, allow your body to cool down and return to its normal temperature for at least 30 minutes before stepping into the shower.
Wet your body before shampooing your hair
– When you’ve been out in the hot sun, give your body time to cool down and let your sweat dry before taking a shower.
– Avoid bathing when you are heavily intoxicated, as it can worsen dizziness and increase the risk of a stroke.
– Do not bathe immediately after waking up, as your body’s functions are still recovering. It is recommended to wait for at least 30 minutes after waking before taking a shower.
– Refrain from bathing after 10 pm, as it can disrupt your circulatory system and potentially lead to sudden death.
– When you are extremely tired, ill, or running a high fever, opt for a quick bath or a sponge bath instead of a full shower.
– Maintain a moderate water temperature when bathing, as extremely hot or cold water can affect your blood vessels. Cold water can cause cardiovascular problems and colds, while hot water can damage your skin and hair. Aim for a comfortable temperature of 38 to 44 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for cleaning your skin and hair without stripping away their natural oils.
– Avoid sealing the bathroom door tightly and spending extended periods in the shower, as this can lead to oxygen deprivation and fainting. Ensure there is proper ventilation, such as a small window, in the bathroom.
Keep your shower duration to 7-10 minutes, and your hair washing to 5-7 minutes, to avoid fatigue. After showering, dry off before stepping in front of a fan or entering an air-conditioned room. Ensure your hair is dry before going to bed.
