The debate over when the best (or correct) time to shower, either morning or evening, is more controversial than one would assume. For some, a morning shower is an essential wake-up ritual, acting as a regulator of the individual’s circadian rhythm. Others, who shower at night swear by the relaxation of an evening cleanse to wash away the day’s grime and build up.
But is there a definitive answer? Science suggests there might be. Whether you’re a morning person who likes to start their day on a clean slate or a night-owl who does not want to sleep in with the day’s dirt, it all breaks down to personal preference. Both have their pros and cons and uncovering what those are might give us a definitive, somewhat objectionable answer.
The Case for Morning Showers
Morning showers are the most common and popular choice for many. According to a 2022 Sleep Foundation survey, 42% of U.S. adults prefer to start their day under the shower or with a bath. This overshadows the percentages who either shower before bed or at some point in the night. This habit isn’t just about hygiene, it’s also about getting a fresh start and boosting alertness for the day.
Boosting Alertness and Energy
One of the many benefits of a morning shower is its ability to wake you up. Cleveland Clinic dermatologist Dr. Alok Vij explains that showering in the morning can serve as a regulator to your body’s circadian rhythm, helping you feel more awake and ready for the day. Opting for cooler water during your morning routine can bolster this effect by triggering the release of neurotransmitters like cortisol, serotonin and dopamine, which benefits your mood and reduces stress levels.
Health Benefits
Studies suggest that morning showers of any length and temperature improve energy levels. This is amplified by ending the shower with 90 seconds of cold water, which also reduces sick days by nearly one-third. While cold showers may sound uncomfortable, many participants in these studies reported feeling invigorated enough to continue the habit.
Hygiene After Sleep
Another argument for morning showers is cleanliness. Dermatologist Dr. Gary Goldenberg points out that humans tend to sweat at night, leaving bacteria and oils on the skin. A morning rinse helps remove this buildup, ensuring you start your day feeling fresh. For some who shower in the morning, it is less about hygiene, more about feeling less gross, especially in the workplace.
Read More: How Often Do You Really Need To Shower?
The Case for Evening Showers
While less common than their morning counterparts, evening showers offer unique advantages that make them worth considering. Night time showers wash away various oil, grime and pollutants that build up on your skin throughout the day. It also aids in winding down and relaxing after a long day, helping improve sleep quality.
Improved Skin Health
Throughout the day, your skin accumulates dirt, sweat, and environmental pollutants. Washing these off before bed prevents clogged pores and reduces the risk of acne or irritation, improving and promoting healthier skin. Some serums and skin regimes require you to apply it twice daily, which you can fit into your nightly shower routine. Evening showers are particularly beneficial if you’ve been physically active or exposed to allergens during the day.
Better Sleep Hygiene
Clinical psychologist Dr. Janet K. Kennedy explains that showering about 90 minutes before bed raises your body temperature temporarily. As your body cools down afterward, it notifies your brain that it’s time to sleep, aligning with the body’s natural circadian rhythm. Warm water enhances this effect by promoting relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep quickly.
Added essential oils and aromatherapy oils can further bolster this relaxing effect. Going to bed clean has its own appeal. Dr. Vij emphasizes that washing off daily grime ensures you’re not transferring dirt or allergens onto your sheets, creating a healthier sleeping environment. This habit is particularly helpful for individuals with sensitive skin conditions like eczema.
Morning vs. Evening: Which Is Truly Better?
The true winner of this contentious topic is still divisive and the answer depends on you: What suits your lifestyle and priorities. Morning showers are ideal for those who struggle to wake up or need an energy boost to kick start their day. They help wash away sweat and bacteria accumulated during sleep, especially for individuals with oily skin that feels grimy upon waking. Additionally, if you exercise early in the day, a morning rinse ensures you’re refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of your schedule.
Evening showers are most suitable for those who want to wash away pollutants and grime build up accumulated during the day. Individuals who have sensitive skin or are prone to acne that require thorough cleansing before applying treatments or moisturizers. It’s also ideal for those who want to improve their sleep quality, also supplementing as a wind down strategy before going to bed. In 2017, Michael Grandner, director of the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona suggested to Time Magazine that warm baths or showers before bed might give you time to think and wind down instead of distracting yourself in front of the TV.
The Verdict: A Slight Edge for Evening Showers
If you had to choose one option as the best time to shower, showers in the evening seem to have a slight edge due to their dual benefits of improved skin health and better sleep hygiene. However, there’s no set rule to choosing either, or and your choice should be informed by your personal needs and preferences.
Dr. Vij suggests experimenting with both routines: “If you’ve always showered in the morning, try switching it up for a week and see how it makes you feel.” Ultimately, whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, what matters most is finding a routine that aligns with your lifestyle and makes you feel your best. In short, embrace what works for you. The best time to shower depends on your routine, just as long as you’re practising good hygiene habits.
Read More: Doctors Warn Against Very Common Shower Habit