Hot Showers in Winter Could Accelerate Hair Loss

As temperatures drop, there's nothing better than a long, hot shower to warm up. But could this comforting winter ritual be linked to increased hair loss? According to Dr Wajid Ali Anwar, a plastic and reconstructive surgery expert, your winter bathing habits might be having an adverse effect on your scalp and hair health.

The link between hot showers and hair thinning

Exposing your scalp to very hot water can lead to a host of problems that may fast-track hair loss. Dr Anwar warns that hot water strips away the natural protective oils on your scalp, which are essential for maintaining healthy hair follicles.

This process not only leaves the scalp dry and sensitive but also damages the cuticle — the outermost layer of the hair shaft — making hair more prone to breakage and fallout. Over time, regular steaming-hot showers can make hair thinner and weaker, especially if combined with other factors like heat styling, poor diet, genetics, or harsh shampoo use.

Why your winter routine could be harmful

In winter, people naturally gravitate toward hotter showers to fight off cold weather. But these habits can unintentionally worsen scalp conditions:

• Reduced scalp hydration: Hot water saps moisture from the scalp, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Increased hair shaft damage: High temperatures can weaken the hair structure, increasing shedding.
• Inflamed roots: Constant heat exposure can inflame hair follicles, potentially accelerating hair fallout.

Dry indoor heating, winter wind, and poor ventilation can amplify these effects. If you're noticing more hair at the bottom of your shower or on your brush this season, this may be why.

How to protect your hair during winter

Thankfully, there are simple changes you can make to limit damage and support scalp health:

• Lower your shower water temperature to lukewarm
• Use a mild, hydrating shampoo and conditioner free from sulphates
• Limit shampooing to 2–3 times per week to maintain natural scalp oils
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to seal in moisture
• Avoid heat styling tools or use them on a low setting with a heat protectant
• Wear a hat outdoors to shield your scalp from cold, dry air

Why it matters

Hair loss can be distressing and impact confidence, especially when it feels sudden or unexplained. While many factors contribute to thinning hair — including genetics, age, and health — daily habits like how you shower can make a surprising difference. Adjusting your shower temperature and adopting a scalp-friendly hair care routine could help retain thickness and shine through the winter months.

With early action and minor adjustments, many seasonal triggers for hair loss can be minimised or reversed. If concerns persist, always consult a dermatologist or trichologist for tailored advice.

Take control of your winter hair care now – your scalp will thank you later!

Source: The Sun – published 29 October 2025