Do you enjoy a long soak or a quick blast under a cold shower? Find out what you should be doing, and how your bathing routine can help beat your aches and pains.
HOW OFTEN?
Some of us shower in the morning, others in the evening. And some do it twice a day. But how often do you really need to shower?
The American Academy of Dermatology says most people don’t need to shower more than once a day – unless you’ve been working up a sweat.
But if you have dry or sensitive skin, you may benefit from fewer showers.
In fact, people who live in cool, dry climates and don’t sweat much may get away with showering every second or third day (although areas like the underarms and groin should still be washed daily).
Most experts agree that anything longer than 10 minutes in the shower is too much – and five minutes is better for saving water.
IS A COLD SHOWER GOOD FOR YOU?
When it comes to the temperature of the water, lukewarm is best.
Showers that are too hot can dry out your skin, or even result in dizziness or changes in blood pressure that can be dangerous.
Feeling adventurous? Some studies suggest an icy blast from the cold tap can help with muscle soreness, may promote weight loss and could help to boost your immunity.
However, cold showers should be avoided if you’re already feeling cold, have any heart issues or feel unwell.
WHAT ABOUT BATHS?
Baths can be great for relaxing, and when you’re tired and and achey from a week on your feet, what’s better than a warm soak?
However, if you have a condition, such as eczema, a special treatment like an oatmeal soak may be beneficial.
Again, baths should be kept to a lukewarm temperature, and should last for around 10 minutes. So a hot soak in the tub might not be what your sore body needs.
WHEN PAIN STRIKES
When pain strikes, our first step is to seek relief. And while a cold shower or soothing soak might be a help, sometimes you want to reach for something else.
Kunzea Pain Relief Cream is a topical analgesic cream that contains 100 per cent natural active ingredients, plus vitamin E, to help assist muscle and joint pain. With coconut and macadamia oils, your skin will feel hydrated after each application.
Kunzea Pain Relief Cream (100g) $34.95 zea.com.au
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Incorrect use could be harmful.
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
