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The Connection Between Bathing Habits and Skin Condition

As the colder months approach, many find themselves battling dry skin, itching, and flaking. A recent survey conducted by Tekketsukai Medical Group, which operates the IC Clinic across various locations in Tokyo, explores how daily bathing habits might significantly impact skin health. With temperatures and humidity levels dropping, it's essential to re-evaluate our skincare practices, specifically our bathing routines.

Overview of the Study

The study aimed to demonstrate the relationship between daily bathing habits and skin condition. A total of 300 participants, aged between 20 and 50, were surveyed online between November 1st and November 10th, 2025.

Key Findings

1. Bathing Style and Skin Dryness
When examining bath styles, the survey revealed that the most common preference was a lukewarm bath at 40-41°C, favored by 38.0% of respondents. Following closely were those who preferred hot baths at over 42°C (27.3%), shower-only users (24.0%), and those who preferred a quite lukewarm bath of 38-39°C (10.7%).
A stark difference was noted when participants assessed their skin dryness. Of those who opted for hot baths, 68.3% reported feeling dry skin, compared to only 34.4% of the lukewarm bath enthusiasts. Thus, it became evident that individuals who prefer hotter baths are almost twice as likely to suffer from dry skin.

Skin Dryness by Bathing Preference:

• - Hot Bath (>42°C): 68.3%
• - Lukewarm Bath (40-41°C): 47.4%
• - Shower Only: 52.8%
• - Very Lukewarm Bath (38-39°C): 34.4%

2. Timing of Moisturization Post-Bath
The survey also highlighted a concerning trend regarding post-bathing moisturization. Dermatologists recommend moisturizing within 10 minutes of bathing to prevent rapid moisture loss. Yet, the study found that only 12.3% of respondents moisturized within 10 minutes, and just 23.7% within the 30-minute window recommended by specialists. In contrast, a significant portion, 28.6%, reported not moisturizing at all after baths.

Moisturization Timing:

• - Within 10 minutes: 12.3%
• - 10-30 minutes: 11.4%
• - 30 minutes to 1 hour: 28.7%
• - 1 hour or more: 19.0%
• - No moisturization: 28.6%

3. Duration of Bathing and Skin Issues
Looking at how long respondents typically bathed, it was revealed that 34.7% bathed for 10-15 minutes, while 8.3% engaged in lengthy baths lasting over 30 minutes. Alarmingly, around 72.0% of those who favored longer baths had encountered skin troubles.

Skin Issues by Bath Duration:

• - 30 minutes and longer: 72.0%
• - 20-30 minutes: 56.8%
• - 15-20 minutes: 48.2%
• - 10-15 minutes: 43.3%
• - 5-10 minutes: 38.5%

4. Interconnection Between Bathing, Sleep Quality, and Skin Condition
The survey also assessed whether respondents believed their bathing habits were linked to sleep quality and skin condition. An impressive 73.0% felt that relaxing baths led to better sleep quality, and 67.3% agreed that a good night's sleep improved their skin the next morning. Furthermore, 64.3% felt all three elements were interconnected.

Awareness of Interconnections:

• - Better sleep on bath days: 73.0%
• - Good sleep improves skin: 67.3%
• - All are interconnected: 64.3%

5. Desire to Reassess Bathing Habits for Better Skin
The study found that 68.3% of participants were open to re-evaluating their bathing habits to improve skin condition, with 24.3% expressing strong interest in making changes. The suggested adjustments included lowering bath temperatures (52.7%), moisturizing promptly after baths (61.3%), and reducing bath duration (38.0%).

Intent to Reassess Bathing Habits:

• - Strong interest in reassessment: 24.3%
• - Moderate interest: 44.0%
• - Not much interest: 21.7%
• - No interest: 10.0%

Adjustments Desired:

• - Moisturize immediately after bathing: 61.3%
• - Lower bath temperature: 52.7%
• - Shorten bath time: 38.0%
• - Change bath products: 29.3%

Conclusion

This survey reveals how our bathing habits critically influence skin conditions, especially during winter. By prioritizing proper bathing techniques—such as lowering water temperature, limiting bathing time, and moisturizing immediately after bathing—we can significantly enhance skin health.
As we enter the colder months, these adjustments could serve as a preventative measure against skin troubles.

Expert Insights

Dr. Kota Takakua, from IC Clinic, emphasizes:
"The study's findings clearly support the logical conclusion that hot baths and extended soaking can lead to skin dryness and issues. Moreover, post-bath moisture replenishment is crucial, especially within the first 30 minutes to protect skin hydration effectively."

Those struggling with dryness and other skin issues should first consider reassessing their bathing habits. Simple changes, such as lowering bath temperatures and regular moisturizing, can yield remarkable improvements.

Free Consultations Available

If you're experiencing severe dryness or skin issues, reach out for a free consultation with the specialists at IC Clinic. Our dermatologists are ready to recommend personalized skincare plans suited to your specific skin conditions and lifestyle.

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For further information about IC Clinic, available in multiple locations including Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Ikebukuro, and Omiya, visit our website to learn more about our services and book a consultation.