Dermatologists have settled the debate about the best way to shower, between standing facing the water or turning your back to the shower head.
This debate was recently renewed on the X platform, after a user posted a tweet saying that she thought everyone showered with their backs to the showerhead, wondering if that was the normal situation.
The tweet garnered more than 1.8 million views and sparked widespread interaction among users, with opinions clearly divided between those who supported standing with their backs to the water and those who opposed facing the flow of water, believing that it provides a better feeling of warmth and comfort.
A large number of users confirmed that they prefer to stand with their backs to the water, considering it more comfortable, especially for those who do not like the water to reach their face directly, while others felt that standing facing the water gives a feeling similar to a "warm hug" and makes the showering experience more enjoyable.
However, dermatologists believe that the healthiest way is to stand with your back to the flow of water, changing position occasionally while showering.
Leslie Reynolds, co-founder of Harley Street Skin Clinic, said that dermatologists usually advise showering with your back to the water because it prevents shampoo and conditioner from running down your face, which can clog pores, irritate the skin, and cause pimples.
She added that this method also reduces the direct exposure of sensitive facial skin to hot water, which helps to protect the skin barrier, reduce dryness, and better maintain skin balance.
For her part, Dr. Susan Mayo, a dermatology consultant at Cadogan Clinic, believes that changing body position is the most balanced option, explaining that constantly facing water means exposing the face, chest, and shoulders to direct heat and pressure for a longer period, which may increase redness and sensitivity, especially for those with sensitive skin.
She added that alternating between facing the water and turning your back helps to reduce continuous exposure to hot water, while at the same time ensuring that the body is cleaned effectively and that hair and skin care products are rinsed off better.
Mayo stressed that people with eczema or rosacea, or those with sensitive skin, should be extra careful while showering, noting that using lukewarm water and reducing the duration of direct exposure to shower spray helps to keep skin moisturized and strengthen its protective barrier.
