It's as simple as it sounds; taking a cold shower can help regulate sebum production and keep new flare-ups at bay, board-certified dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, tells Byrdie. "Oil doesn't flow through pores as easily when it's cold, and cold water reduces the inflammatory effects of acne, which is where a lot of discomfort comes from," she explained.
According to Sophia Knapp, a licensed cosmetologist, turning the temperature down when showering can be beneficial for your skin barrier as well, as its state can affect acne breakouts. "If you have chronically dry skin, hot water can strip your sebum levels (oils) and exacerbate the issue, so cold water is a good alternative," she shared with Healthline.
Cold water has also been proven to boost your immune system, improve mental health, and help your muscles recover after working out, UCLA Health reports. However, not every shower you take should be a freezing one, as there are possible downsides to this seemingly magical hack.
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