On the other hand, if you have oily skin, constricting the pores with cold water may help to control excess oil so that your complexion doesn't get quite so shiny so quickly.
Washing your face with cold water may help treat excessively oily or acne-prone skin by combating the over-production of sebum.
Hot water dissolves accumulated oil easily than cold water and, therefore, it is the most recommended. This makes it easy to remove all the excess oils on the skin.
When you're washing your face, use hot water; this will break down the oil more effectively than cold or warm water is able to. Hot water also opens your pores, making it easier to clear out the excess oil. When you finish washing your face, splash it with ice cold water.
Although a hot shower removes sebum, the removal also triggers the body to produce more sebum after the shower. If you suffer from acne, it is advisable to take cold showers to help sebum control and prevent new breakouts.
Benefits of cold water
Cold water can be especially beneficial for dry or acne-prone skin, says Knapp. “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.”
The water's too hot or too cold
To get the right temperature for clear skin, you have to play Goldilocks. "Cold water tightens the skin's pores, which doesn't allow the natural secretion of sebum and acne-causing bacteria," says Neil Sadick, MD, of Sadick Dermatology.
Lukewarm water is advisable to wash your face with, but cold water has its benefits, too. Cold water tightens the appearance of your skin, so it may make you look renewed and refreshed. It also helps boost your circulation, which can help give your skin a healthier appearance, albeit temporarily.
Furthermore, the myth of cold water being able to shrink the size of pores has been proven false, since pore size is decided completely by genetics. However, cold -but not too cold- water does still have its benefits for the skin. Cold water causes blood vessels to contract, creating a tightened feeling.
"There are many benefits to applying ice water to the skin such as decreasing inflammation and reducing puffiness, also improving the appearance of the skin tone, minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores and improving superficial wrinkles."
In spite of the myth we've been sold all of this time, cold water does not “close” pores any more than hot water opens them, but ending your warm shower with a cold splash of water on the skin can still do wonders for your complexion.
Everybody's skin produces oil. Your sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily or waxy substance that moisturizes and protects your skin and hair. Oily skin happens when your glands produce too much sebum, which can lead to a greasy surface, clogged pores, and acne.
Oily Skin: Because rose water balances skin's natural oils and works wonders as a toner, it's a great fit for oily skin. Dry Skin: Rose water is a natural hydrator, providing moisture where skin needs it most. It's perfect for dry skin as it can offer a nourishing boost.
“Warm water is always best as hot can strip the skin of its natural oils and cold does not allow the pores to open to remove dirt,” says Dr.
Detoxifies the body and prevents acne
Warm water can increase your body temperature and make you sweat. This helps get rid of the toxins and impurities from the body and thus prevents the growth of acne.
Cleanse your face thoroughly before treating it with ice, as applying the ice on freshly cleaned skin is far more effective. Wrap the ice cube in a soft cloth before applying it to your skin.
That being said, you should try to avoid cleansing your skin with too much cold water because it does not effectively clean out the skin. Cold water tightens up your pores, which can trap bacteria and dirt into the skin.
What Kind Of Water Is Good For The Skin? Lukewarm water is best for the skin as it is the gentlest on your skin. Whether for a shower or for post-shower skincare products, using lukewarm water is ideal. Water with a pH balance ranging from 6.5-8.5 is the healthiest to drink.
Remember, cold water only temporarily tightens skin as it constricts blood flow, but it does not shrink pores.
Hot water can strip away the natural oils of your skin and dry it out, while cold water helps to constrict blood vessels to temporarily tighten pores and reduce redness.
Drawbacks of cold water for skin
In time, using cold water exclusively may result in an increase in breakouts and pimples, especially if you already have acne-prone skin. Dr. Colbert explains that for those with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions like rosacea, icy cold water could also cause a mild flare-up.