Is it better to shower in the morning or at night?

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute or replace advice from a medical professional.

Do you shower in the morning or at night? It’s a question that divides us! People may argue that showering in the morning helps you to wake up before you begin your day, while night bathers may say that showering in the evening helps you to relax while washing off the dirt and grime of the day. But who is correct? Read on to find out more about the difference between having a morning shower vs evening shower. We’ll delve into the subject and answer the question: Is it better to shower in the morning or night?

Is it better to shower in the morning or night?

When you decide to shower ultimately depends on your personal preference. There really is no right or wrong answer! Whichever works best for your lifestyle and schedule will be the best option for you. However, below you’ll find some of the benefits of both.

Benefits of showering in the morning

• A morning shower can help you wake up – using an energising shower gel or a blast of icy-cold water is a great way to feel ready to tackle the day!

• You sweat during the night – a person can sweat up to half a pint during the night. And, you might not want to think about it, but your bed also contains skin cells, bacteria and oils from your skin. Showering in the morning is a good way to start your day feeling cleansed and refreshed.

• Hair styling – if you wake up with bed head, showering in the morning gives you a chance to wash your hair and freshly style it for the day, making you feel more groomed and put together. 

Benefits of showering at night

• Remove the grime of the day – showering in the evening means you have the chance to wash away the dirt, sweat and skincare products that build up on your skin throughout the day. 

• Cleaner sheets – if you get into bed with clean skin every night, it means your sheets will feel cleaner for longer! Less laundry is always a bonus!

• Evening relaxation – less pressure in the evening means you can take your time to have a relaxing shower. Use products that aid relaxation, and take the time to use skincare products like body lotion to care for your skin post-shower. You may also fall asleep faster or have better quality sleep.

Morning shower vs evening shower: which is better for your skin?

It’s not so much the time of day you shower that’s better for your skin, it’s how you shower. Below you’ll find some tips for showering that can actually affect your skin health and how it feels. 

Water temperature matters more than timing

Having a hot shower on a cold day can feel good, but it can harm your skin. Using water that is too hot (above 40ºC) can leave you with dry skin and can cause flare-ups of skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. However, a blast of cold water at the end of your shower can be beneficial for skin, hair and boosting circulation. 

Showering too often can dry out skin

Showering more than once a day or for longer than 5-10 minutes can also contribute to skin dryness and irritation. Washing for too long or too often will remove the natural oils from your skin, leaving it feeling parched. 

Gentle cleansing matters at any time of day

No matter what time of day you choose to shower, make sure you’re using a shower gel or body wash to suit your skin type and any specific concerns you have. For dry skin, try a moisturising shower gel that provides hydration and supports your skin barrier. Sensitive skin types should look for hypoallergenic formulas that are less likely to irritate. If you have oily skin, look for a deep-cleansing shower gel that helps to control oil production.

Final thoughts: evening vs morning shower

When it comes to having a morning shower vs evening shower, go with your preference and the option that fits best into your day-to-day life. There are benefits to both a morning shower and an evening cleanse. Make sure you shower properly, using gentle products that suit your skin type and keep it feeling nourished and healthy. Sanex shower gels and body washes are formulated for different skin types and needs. They’re free from sulphates and kind to your skin, respecting its natural pH level.

FAQs

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about having an evening vs morning shower:

Can a morning shower help you feel fresher?

A morning shower will help to scrub away the sweat and microbes picked up from your bed during the night, allowing you to start your day feeling fresher and cleaner. 

Is a cold shower in the morning good for your skin?

Yes, a cold shower in the morning doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils like a hot shower does. This makes it less prone to dryness and irritation. Cold showers can also boost circulation, leaving it feeling firmer and fresher, with less redness. 

Can showering twice a day dry out your skin?

Yes, showering twice a day can strip your skin of its natural oils, especially if you shower for too long or use water that is too hot. A compromised skin barrier can lead to dryness, irritation and even cause flare-ups of skin conditions like eczema.