Is washing your hair first a mistake? Recently, Japanese media reported that improper bathing practices cause up to 14,000 deaths annually in Japan. This report sparked significant online attention, with many sharing or linking to it, and various media outlets rushing to cover the story. Such a minor detail as the order of bathing steps could apparently lead to serious consequences.Reports indicate that during winter's cold temperatures, blood concentrates in internal organs and the head upon entering the bathroom. Washing hair first may restrict blood flow to the head, potentially triggering cerebrovascular diseases over time. But is this really that serious?
Preventing Sudden Death: Never Wash Your Hair First? Sparks Online Debate
Bathing can be deadly—and this isn't sensationalism.Reports indicate that Japan sees up to 14,000 bathing-related deaths annually, with nearly 90% occurring among seniors aged 65 and above. Accidents peak during December and January. Japanese experts cited in the reports suggest washing your face first, then rinsing your body, and finally washing your hair. This sequence allows blood vessels throughout the body to dilate, reducing the circulatory burden on the heart. How Dangerous Is "Washing Your Hair First"?Experts Differ in Opinion Regarding the risks of "washing your hair first," experts hold differing views. Warming the abdomen first warms the entire body, so rinsing the body before the head better retains body heat and prevents cold exposure. Reports indicate that during winter hot baths, sudden warm water on the head causes blood to rush to the dilated skin surface, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart and brain. This can trigger dizziness, chest tightness, and other discomforts.For those with pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular conditions, this could potentially trigger angina or other illnesses.
Most people start by washing their hair, but the correct sequence is: wash your face first, then your body, and finally your hair. The first step of washing your face is because the body's pores rapidly expand after exposure to hot shower water. Washing your face first prevents excessive dust from entering facial pores and causing blockages.When washing the body, start by rinsing the limbs, which are farthest from the heart. Washing the hair last serves two purposes: it avoids sudden temperature changes that could shock the brain's blood circulation, and it allows the scalp and hair to absorb steam and moisture from the hot water, making them easier to clean and promoting scalp health.
Experts also note that blaming "washing hair first" is misguided. Fainting incidents during showers remain common, occurring annually regardless of washing order. They reject online claims that shower sequence causes sudden death, emphasizing that such outcomes typically stem from pre-existing health conditions.Water temperature and significant temperature differences between the bathroom and surrounding areas can cause sudden, extreme vasoconstriction or vasodilation. If an individual's blood pressure regulation fails to keep pace, fainting may occur. However, this typically does not affect generally healthy individuals or younger populations. It usually occurs in patients with underlying conditions like hypertension or heart disease, or in elderly individuals and those who are bedridden for extended periods.