Khaberni - Dermatologists have settled the debate on the best way to shower, whether standing facing the water or turning your back to the showerhead.
This debate resurfaced recently on platform X, after one user tweeted that she thought everyone showers with their back to the showerhead, wondering if that was the normal position.
The tweet garnered more than 1.8 million views and sparked a wide interaction among users, where opinions were clearly divided between those in favor of standing with their back to the water and those opposing it, believing that facing the flow of water provides a better feeling of warmth and comfort.
A large number of users confirmed that they prefer to stand with their back to the water, considering it more comfortable, especially for those who do not like water directly hitting their face, while others thought that facing the water provides a sensation akin to a "warm hug" and makes the shower experience more enjoyable.
However, dermatology specialists believe that from a health standpoint, it is better to stand with your back away from the water flow, changing positions occasionally during the shower.
Leslie Renolds, co-founder of the "Harley Street Skin" clinic, stated that dermatologists usually advise showering with your back to the water, as this prevents shampoo and conditioner from running down the face, which can lead to clogged pores, skin irritation, and blemishes.
She added that this method also reduces the direct exposure of the sensitive facial skin to hot water, helping to protect the skin barrier, reduce dryness, and maintain better skin balance.
On her part, Dr. Susan Mayo, a dermatologist at Cadogan clinic, sees that changing body positions is the most balanced choice, explaining that constantly facing the water means more exposure for the face, chest, and shoulders to heat and direct pressure for longer, which may increase redness and sensitivity, especially for those with sensitive skin.
She added that alternating between facing the water and then turning your back helps reduce continuous exposure to hot water and at the same time ensures effective body cleansing and rinsing of care products from the hair and skin in a better way.
Mayo emphasized that individuals with eczema or rosacea, or those with sensitive skin, should be more cautious while showering, noting that using lukewarm water and reducing the duration of direct exposure to shower spray help maintain skin hydration and strengthen its protective barrier.
