Most people have a shower routine rooted in personal preference—either waking up with a blast of water or washing off the day’s stress before bed. But what do experts say about the best time to shower?
To get to the bottom of this, Glamour UK consulted two specialists: Dr. Aragona Giuseppe, general practitioner and medical advisor for Prescription Doctor, and Antonia Harman, a renowned energy healer. Their insights reveal surprising advantages to each approach.
“A Matter of Lifestyle”—Morning vs. Night Showers
According to Dr. Giuseppe, the choice between a morning and evening shower largely comes down to “personal preference and lifestyle.” He explains that many people lean towards morning showers because “they awaken the senses and refresh you for the day ahead,” but this doesn’t necessarily make them superior in terms of hygiene or health.
Some team members at GQ, he notes, can’t start the day without a revitalizing rinse, while others swear by the calming effect of a nighttime shower. But what’s more telling is the impact on cleanliness and well-being throughout the day and night.
“Night Showers Promote Better Sleep and Hygiene”
Dr. Giuseppe emphasizes that showering before bed has key benefits, especially when it comes to sleep quality and removing irritants. “The main advantage of nighttime showers is that during the day, your body and hair can accumulate airborne allergens and irritants, dirt, and grime,” he says.
This becomes more pronounced in the summer, when pollen, chemicals, and sweat can build up. Going to bed without showering means “these substances will end up in your bed and sheets, which can not only dirty your bedding and cause nighttime allergies, but also itching, irritation, and dry skin, as well as problems such as acne.”
A warm evening shower can also ease muscle tension after work or workouts. “Letting hot water massage your shoulders and back promotes relaxation,” he adds. The heat and steam create “a sense of calm and sleepiness” that can make it easier to fall asleep naturally.
The Temperature Factor: “As Important as Timing”
Antonia Harman takes a different view. For her, the temperature of the shower is just as important—if not more—than the time of day.
“Morning showers can be invigorating,” she says. “You can shower and set your intentions for the day ahead, plan your meetings, and have a bit of time for yourself before the workday starts.”
She also recommends a method known as cold water therapy—ending your shower with 30 seconds to a minute of cold water.
“Anything below 15 degrees Celsius is considered cold water,” she notes. “If you feel brave, you can take a fully cold shower. In addition to waking you up, it stimulates your immune, circulatory, and digestive systems. It even helps your body recover faster from injuries or soreness, which you might feel after a workout.”
Evening showers, in contrast, are best kept warm. “A long hot shower raises body temperature and acts as a natural sedative,” she explains.
Is It Safe to Shower Twice a Day?
While both experts agree that there’s no universal right answer, they highlight that frequency and duration matter. The final recommendation is clear: if you enjoy showering both in the morning and at night, go for it—but with moderation.
There’s no harm in showering twice a day as long as you “limit the duration to 10 minutes or less” and keep the water temperature gentle to avoid skin irritation.
Final Takeaway: Choose What Fits Your Rhythm
Dr. Giuseppe and Harman ultimately agree that showering is a highly individual practice. Whether you prefer a morning boost or a nighttime wind-down, what matters most is how it fits your body’s needs, daily rhythm, and overall comfort.
But if cleanliness, better sleep, and removing allergens are your priorities, a warm evening shower might offer a more effective solution—while a quick cold rinse in the morning could sharpen your focus and activate your system for the day.
