Why you should always avoid a hot shower after a long flight
IF one of the first things you do after a long flight is hop in the shower, you might want to think again.
Experts have revealed why a hot shower is one of the worst things you can do.
Jamie Fraser, founder of Wild Packs, said it can not only damage your skin, but make the effects of jet lag even worst.
He said: “Jumping into a hot shower might feel like the best way to recover from a long flight, but it could do more harm than good for your skin.
“The humidity levels on a plane can drop between 10 per cent to 20 per cent, which is far below the 40 per cent to 50 per cent your skin is accustomed to.
“As such, the dramatic drop in moisture can leave your skin dehydrated, even after short flights, especially for those with dry skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis as the dehydration can trigger flare-ups, making post-flight skincare even more important.
“But taking a hot shower can make things worse as it can irritate acne by removing the natural oils your skin needs.”
Not only that, but a cooler shower could help you with adjusting to the correct time zone.
He added: “If you feel jet lagged, a cold shower can help you feel more alert as the cold shock increases your heart rate and sends more blood to your brain.
“This can help improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and leave your skin looking fresh.
“Plus, it triggers the release of endorphins and noradrenaline, which can boost your energy and reduce jet lag.”
Other experts have backed this up.
Travys Carinci, customer service manager for Qantas who flies 60,000 miles a month, said he also opts for colder showers.
He told CN Traveller: “I skip overly hot showers which, even though it is tempting after a long flight, is a surefire way to dry out your skin.”
And experts at Travel + Leisure said a cold shower has several benefits.
This includes “increasing your circulation, which provides a quick energy boost if you […] need to stay awake the rest of the day.”
When it comes to a pre-holiday shower, you are also best to have one the day before.
How often should you be showering?
A dermatologist has argued that we don't need to shower everyday.
The sweet spot is actually around every two to three days, depending on your lifestyle.
Dr. Mary Stevenson, assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Health in New York, US claimed that how often you shower should depend on a number of personal factors.
Because after all, personal hygiene is just that – personal.
These factors include your skin, age and activity level.
Dr Stevenson suggested “you should be showering, bathing or cleansing yourself every two to three days”.
However, if you’re a gym bunny working up a sweat everyday, then you should be hosing yourself down after each workout.
If you have an early flight, having one at night can save you 20 minutes in the morning – allowing some much needed sleep.
Here are three other ways to avoid severe jet lag after a long flight.