With parts of the UK sweltering in temperatures exceeding 30°C this weekend and stifling humidity adding to the discomfort, many Brits are turning to cold showers for instant relief. But health experts are now warning that this go-to heatwave hack might actually be making things worse.
According to Brian Clarke, a wellness expert at UK Saunas, cold showers, while refreshing in the moment, could interfere with the body’s natural cooling mechanisms.
“Cold water causes your blood vessels to constrict, reducing heat loss through the skin,” he explained. “As a result, you may end up feeling even hotter once you step out.”
The warning comes as the UK faces more intense summer temperatures, with last year seeing over 1,300 heat-related deaths in England alone.
As the climate continues to warm, experts are urging people to be smarter about how they stay cool, and that starts in the shower.
Rather than shocking your system with ice-cold water, Clarke recommends a surprising alternative: lukewarm or even warm showers.
“Research shows that warm water helps activate your body’s natural cooling system,” he said. “It boosts circulation to the skin’s surface, encouraging heat to escape.
“And as water evaporates from your skin afterwards, it produces a longer-lasting cooling effect.”
This method isn’t just a niche opinion, it’s supported by research and health organisations.
The National Sleep Foundation has also noted that warmer showers may actually be more effective than cold ones during extreme heat, particularly when room temperatures are high.
“Short, cold showers don’t give the body enough time to cool properly and may even halt sweat production, which is one of the body’s key methods of temperature regulation,” Clarke added.
“Meanwhile, a tepid or warm shower gently encourages heat dissipation and leaves you feeling cooler for longer.”
So while an icy blast might feel tempting when you’re overheated, experts say a warm rinse could be your best bet for real, lasting relief.