When it comes to showering with atopic dermatitis, you may have heard advice from experts and the media like:
“Use lukewarm water, keep showers short, and don’t shower too often.”
As someone who has lived with atopic dermatitis, I used to follow this advice. However, I personally enjoy warm water showers every day, and I like to stay in the shower a bit longer than recommended. I also enjoy baths in comfortably warm water, especially in winter, because lukewarm showers can make me feel cold.
So, was I doing it wrong?
Actually, no. My symptoms are very well managed—so well that most people wouldn’t even notice. I only use a minimal amount of 1% hydrocortisone cream occasionally, over-the-counter version.
The Key Is Hydration, Not Temperature
What I’ve found is that the most important factor is hydration and moisturizing, not the water temperature, duration, or frequency of your showers. Showers and baths are an excellent way to hydrate your skin. Water itself doesn’t penetrate deeply into the skin, but it temporarily hydrates the outer layer, which is crucial.
That brief moment of hydration is critical—you need to apply lotion or cream all over your body immediately, before the water evaporates. This is the step that makes the biggest difference in maintaining healthy skin for those with atopic dermatitis.
Warm Water Is Fine
You don’t need to use overly hot water. My skin is very sensitive, and when I use water that is too hot, I always notice redness. That’s not ideal. But warm water is fine. What does “warm” mean? It’s the temperature that feels comfortable to you, not cold. It doesn’t have to be lukewarm. You can even stay in the shower a little longer if it feels good. Daily showers are totally okay.
The Most Important Step: Moisturize Right After
The single most important tip I can give is: moisturize immediately after your shower or bath. Right after. If you don’t, your skin will lose water quickly, and your condition may worsen. Applying lotion or cream while your skin is still slightly damp ensures that the hydration lasts longer and keeps your skin healthy.