#Japan #Tokyo #skin redness #I.C. Clinic #Winter Bath

The Effects of Hot Baths on Facial Redness During Winter

As winter settles in, the craving for warm baths grows stronger. However, numerous individuals may notice a concerning change when they look in the mirror after a bath—a flushed face. A recent survey by the I.C. Clinic has explored this phenomenon among men and women aged 20 to 50 across the nation, revealing some eye-opening insights about the relationship between hot baths and skin health.

The Survey’s Findings

The survey, conducted between November 1-15, 2025, gathered data from 300 participants. The results indicate that approximately 88% experience facial redness after bathing. Here’s the breakdown of their responses:
- Always Red: 28.7%
- Often Red: 38.0%
- Sometimes Red: 21.3%
- Rarely Red: 9.3%
- Never Red: 2.7%

Duration of Redness

Interestingly, nearly 63% of respondents reported that it takes more than 10 minutes for the redness to subside after bathing.
The response times were categorized as follows:
- Within 5 Minutes: 12.4%
- 5-10 Minutes: 24.7%
- 10-30 Minutes: 38.3%
- 30 Minutes to 1 Hour: 18.2%
- More than 1 Hour: 6.4%

Hot Bath Preferences

The survey also examined participants’ preferred bathing temperatures. A significant 68.7% indicated they enjoy bathing in water hotter than 41°C. The preferences were outlined as follows:
- Below 40°C (Cool): 8.3%
- 40-41°C: 23.0%
- 41-42°C: 34.7%
- 42-43°C: 24.0%
- Above 43°C (Hot): 10.0%

Awareness of Skin Stress

Despite the popularity of high-temperature baths, about 68% of participants admitted they do not fully recognize the potential stress such temperatures place on the skin.
The awareness levels were:
- Fully Aware: 9.7%
- Somewhat Aware: 22.3%
- Not Very Aware: 41.0%
- Not Aware At All: 27.0%

Skin Issues Due to Temperature Variance

When asked about skin issues related to temperature fluctuations, around 90% reported facing skin troubles in winter, listing these concerns:
- Facial Redness: 72.3%
- Dryness and Tightness: 68.7%
- Itching: 43.2%
- Skin Irritation and Acne: 28.4%
- None: 8.7%

Key Takeaways

This survey highlights the winter skin concerns tied to high-temperature baths and sudden climate changes. Approximately 90% experience some degree of facial redness, and nearly 63% feel the effects linger beyond 10 minutes. While many prefer hotter baths, only about 32% understand the impact on their skin.

The temperature gaps between warm baths and colder air can weaken skin barrier functions, leading to redness, dryness, and irritation. Rethinking our bathing habits can help prevent and alleviate these skin troubles.

Expert Commentary from I.C. Clinic

Dr. Kouta Takakuwa, a physician at I.C. Clinic, commented on the findings. He stated, "The survey reveals many individuals experience facial redness after baths yet remain unaware of its causes or care methods. The phenomenon scientifically known as 'cutaneous vasodilation' occurs when warm water dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow and prompting a red face. Especially during winter, moving from a warm bathroom to a chilled dressing room creates sharp temperature shifts, causing repeated contractions and expansions of blood vessels, prolonging redness.

This vascular reaction can degrade the skin's barrier function, leading to dryness, itchiness, and other skin issues. Those with sensitive skin, rosacea, or predisposing factors should exercise caution."

Tips to Prevent Skin Troubles from Temperature Differences

1. Set the bathwater temperature to a mild 38-40°C.
2. Limit soaking time to 10-15 minutes.
3. Warm the dressing room to minimize temperature differences.
4. Moisturize immediately after bathing.
5. Avoid drastic temperature changes by not shocking the face with cold water.

If facial redness persists over time or occurs frequently, it may indicate underlying conditions such as telangiectasia or rosacea. Treatments utilizing laser therapy or topical medications could provide significant improvements, and I.C. Clinic encourages individuals to consult for tailored treatment plans.

Consultation Offer

For those struggling with post-bath redness or chronic facial flushing, I.C. Clinic offers free consultations. Our specialists will evaluate your skin condition and recommend the best treatment strategies tailored to your needs.

About I.C. Clinic

I.C. Clinic specializes in aesthetic dermatology and plastic surgery with a dedicated team of expert practitioners. Our clinics located across major city areas—Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Tokyo, and Omiya—are equipped with the latest medical technology, ensuring safe and effective treatment.

Schedule your consultation today and discover personalized solutions to your skin concerns.