People often wonder if it’s better to shower in the morning to start the day or at night to relax. Experts say there aren’t any clear scientific studies that say you must shower at one time or the other. But here’s a quick summary of what experts think about morning versus night showers.

Why a Morning Shower Might Be Best

If you often feel tired in the morning, taking a shower might help you feel awake and ready to go. Dr. Iroko Anita says, “A morning shower can help get your blood flowing, wake you up, and give you energy.” The feeling of water on your skin can help your body release a hormone called cortisol, which helps you feel more alert.

For people with oily skin, a morning shower is also great for washing off the oil and sweat that builds up overnight. This will not only make your skin feel fresh but also make you feel more confident. If you exercise in the morning, it’s also a good idea to shower right after to clean off the sweat and prevent skin breakouts.

Dr. Anita adds, “A warm shower in the morning can help if you have stiff muscles or joints when you wake up. The warm water helps loosen things up, making it easier to move around.” The warm water helps loosen things up, making it easier to move around.

Why a Night Shower Might Be Better

On the other hand, many people like to shower at night to relax after a long day. Dr. Iroko Anita says that showering at night helps wash away dirt, sweat, and allergens from the day. This is especially helpful if you live in a city with lots of pollution or pollen. By showering at night, you can keep your bed cleaner, which is great for people with allergies or asthma.

A night shower can also help you sleep better. Warm water relaxes your muscles and lowers your stress, getting your body ready for sleep. Dr. Anita explains, “When your body cools down after a warm shower, it tells your brain that it’s time to sleep, which might help you fall asleep faster.

How Your Skin Type Decides the Best Time to Shower

Your skin type can also help you decide when you should shower. If you have dry skin, showering at night might be better because you can apply moisturizer right afterward, which helps keep your skin hydrated. Dr. Anita advises people with dry or sensitive skin to use lukewarm water and keep their showers short—under 10 minutes—so they don’t dry out their skin.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a morning shower might be better for you. Dr. Anita says, “During the night, oil can build up on your skin and clog your pores. A morning shower can help clean this off and prevent breakouts.” A morning shower can help clean this off and prevent breakouts. You can also use a gentle exfoliating cleanser if your skin feels especially oily when you wake up.

Morning Showers Can Boost Your Day, While Night Showers Help You Relax

Taking a shower in the morning can help you feel ready to face the day. It can also be a good time to think about what you need to do and set goals for yourself. This can make you feel more productive.

On the other hand, a shower at night is a good way to tell your body that the day is over and it’s time to relax. Dr. Anita suggests, “A warm shower at night can be a form of self-care, helping you let go of the day’s stress.” If you have trouble falling asleep because of racing thoughts, a nighttime shower might help you calm down and get ready for bed.

Choose What Works Best for You

Dr. Iroko Anita gives great advice, but it’s important to remember that there isn’t one answer that works for everyone. Your lifestyle, daily routine, and even the weather where you live can help decide whether you should shower in the morning or at night.

For example, if you live somewhere hot and humid and sweat a lot during the day, you might prefer a night shower to feel clean before bed. But if you have a hard time waking up in the morning, a quick shower might be just what you need.

Dr. Anita says it’s most important to attend to your body and figure out what works best for you. Whether you like the energy boost from a morning shower or the calming effect of a night shower, staying consistent is key.

What If You Want to Shower Twice a Day? Here’s What Dr. Anita Says

If you can’t decide between morning and night showers, or if you feel like you need both, Dr. Iroko Anita says it’s usually okay to shower twice a day, but you should be careful. Use mild soap and lukewarm water to avoid drying out your skin. Also, make sure to moisturize right after each shower to keep your skin healthy.

However, Dr. Anita warns, “Showering too much can remove your skin’s natural oils, which can make your skin dry or irritated.” If you shower twice a day, try to make one of them shorter and cooler to avoid any skin problems.

The Bottom Line: Do What Works for You

So, should you shower in the morning or at night? According to Dr. Iroko Anita, it depends on what works best for you. Morning showers can help you wake up and get ready for the day, while night showers can help you relax and sleep better. And for some people, showering twice a day works too—as long as you take care of your skin.

Whether you’re a morning person or a night person, the most important thing is to make your shower routine work for you. Listen to your body, change your routine if needed, and enjoy the benefits—whether it’s a burst of morning energy or a relaxing end to your day.