Dr. Max, a certified aesthetic medical doctor also known as Mahyar Maddahali, gained attention on TikTok after sharing a video of a couple discussing their preferred shower temperatures. In the video, the man reveals that he prefers cold showers, while his wife prefers extremely hot water. However, Dr. Max warns that showering with water that hot can have negative effects on the body.
In a post on November 6, Dr. Max explains that excessively hot showers can wash away the natural oils that keep the skin moisturized. He also mentions that hot water can dilate blood vessels, potentially leading to redness and irritation. Furthermore, he warns that prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can even cause individuals to pass out.
Dr. Max’s post received mixed reactions from viewers, especially those who enjoy taking hot showers. Some commenters expressed frustration, feeling that they can’t enjoy anything without being cautioned against it. One user even stated that hot showers are the only source of enjoyment in their life.
Dr. Teresa Song, a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical in New York City, supported several of Dr. Max’s points in an interview with In The Know by Yahoo. She emphasized that extremely hot showers are not recommended as they damage the skin barrier. For individuals with dry skin, particularly those with conditions like eczema or psoriasis, hot showers can worsen dryness and irritation while activating allergy cells and itch signals in the body.
Dr. Song suggests that lukewarm and cold showers are preferable to hot showers because they do not disrupt the skin barrier. Cold showers have the added benefits of calming itchy skin, reducing stress hormones, and tightening the skin through vasoconstriction, which narrows blood vessels. They can also help decrease swelling, pain, and soreness without affecting the skin’s protective barrier.
Despite these explanations, some commenters remain firm in their preference for hot showers. One user jokingly states that if the water doesn’t feel like it’s flowing straight from hell, then it’s not hot enough.
In conclusion, Dr. Max’s TikTok video highlighting the potential harms of extremely hot showers has sparked a debate among viewers. While some are willing to make adjustments to their shower routines, others stand by their love for hot water. Ultimately, the decision lies with the individuals themselves.
