When winter rolls in, the mere thought of stepping into a chilly shower can feel like a daunting task, especially for the laziest among us. While many secretly dread this daily ritual, a viral Instagram video has given reluctant bathers some unexpected justification or so it seems.
A video by Dr. Rebecca Pinto has taken Instagram by storm, racking up over 6.6 million views with its startling claim: avoiding baths during winter can increase life expectancy by 34%. While this might sound like a dream come true for those dodging the shower, skepticism has poured in. Critics were quick to point out the lack of scientific backing, with one commenter remarking, “Is there any research article on this? If yes, you should have shared it before making such a bold claim.”
Dr. Pinto’s video cites no studies or journals to support her assertion, prompting experts to weigh in on the controversy.
Medical professionals agree that bathing habits can impact skin health but argue that the video’s claims are exaggerated.
Dr. Balakrishna G K, HOD and senior consultant in internal medicine at Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru, explains:
“The idea that skipping baths could extend life expectancy by 34% lacks strong scientific evidence. While frequent bathing may disrupt the skin’s natural microbiome, completely avoiding baths risks hygiene concerns and infections.”
Another expert, Dr. H Guru Prasad from CARE Hospitals in Hyderabad, adds, “Longevity depends on a complex interplay of genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Bathing alone is unlikely to have such a significant impact.”
Importance of Bathing in Winter
While daily bathing may not be a universal norm, maintaining personal hygiene remains crucial, especially in colder months. Prolonged neglect can lead to a buildup of sweat, dead skin cells, and pollutants, increasing the risk of clogged pores, irritation, and infections.
Dr. Prasad advises, “For those not engaging in strenuous activities, a quick sponge bath focusing on key areas like armpits and groin can suffice. However, regular cleansing is essential for overall health and hygiene.”
Cold vs. Hot Showers: Which Is Better?
The debate over cold and hot showers continues, but experts suggest a middle ground during winter.
“Cold baths boost circulation and reduce inflammation, while hot baths relax muscles. However, lukewarm water is ideal for winter as it cleans without excessively drying the skin,” says Dr. Balakrishna.
Winter Hygiene Tips
If winter laziness tempts you to skip the shower, here are a few tips to stay fresh:
•Use Lukewarm Water Hot water strips skin of natural oils, so stick to lukewarm temperatures.
•Clean Key Areas Focus on odor-prone spots like armpits, feet, and groin.
•Moisturize Combat dryness by applying a hydrating lotion after every bath.
•Harsh soaps can irritate the skin, so opt for gentle cleansers.
While skipping an occasional bath might not be catastrophic, completely avoiding showers isn’t a sustainable solution for hygiene or health. The viral video’s claims, while intriguing, lack scientific support, making it essential to balance personal comfort with hygiene needs. After all, cleanliness never goes out of style — even in the coldest months.
