Will taking a shower with very cold water adversely affect scalp hair in any way?

Question

I'm a 27 year old male with male patterned baldness. I have been on Finasteride, Minoxidil, Ketoconazole & Biotin for about 3 years with good results. Recently, I've adopted a rigorous workout regimen. I hear that a cold water shower after such a workout is beneficial to muscle recovery. Obviously, it is winter so the water is very cold right now. I was wondering, if such cold water adversely affects scalp hair in any way? Is it safe to continue taking cold showers without affecting hair loss?

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. The cold water will not affect your hair growth positively or negatively. The Neograft Hair Restoration non-surgical procedure can create natural hair regrowth in as little as a few months. It is a sustainable way to continue to improve your hair. I suggest that you move forward and consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon to discuss your candidacy.
Best wishes,

Yael Halaas, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Temperature of water will not have any affect of hair growth. However, you should avoid using extremely hot water or showering for long periods in hot water to avoid over-drying the scalp.

Carolyn Jacob, MD · Answer

No, water temperature has no effect on oil production or hair growth. In fact, cold therapy has been used for chemotherapy patients to prevent loss of hair.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Cold showers will neither have a positive nor negative impact on hair. Continue to do what you feel is appropriate.

Joseph Franzese, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Cold showers will not have any negative effect on your hair. In fact, there is a lot of data showing the positive benefits of taking a cold shower.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Cold water showers will not impact hair in any manner. What you are describing is a matter of personal choice without consequences on your hair

Will taking a shower with very cold water adversely affect scalp hair in any way?

Answers (6)