Wash Hair with Cold Water
A: Actually, depending on the condition of your hair and scalp, using cold water to shampoo may reduce the effectiveness of the cleansing process. Cold temperatures can cause natural oils (sebum) to become thicker and less fluid, making them more difficult for your shampoo to break down and wash away. If you prefer washing with cooler water but find your hair feels greasy afterward, rotating a clarifying shampoo into your routine every week or two can help remove buildup.
While cold water doesn't physically close the hair cuticle - since hair cuticles aren't active cells that expand or contract with temperature - a thorough final rinse helps remove excess residue, leaving the hair shaft smoother. A smoother surface reflects light more evenly, which is why hair often appears shinier after a cool rinse. It can also help conditioning agents remain on the hair shaft, leaving the hair feeling softer and more manageable.
Hair type also plays a role in determining the ideal water temperature. Those with fine or oily hair generally benefit from washing with warm water to thoroughly remove excess oil. People with dry, curly, coarse, color-treated, or chemically processed hair may find that using lukewarm water throughout the wash and finishing with a cool rinse helps minimize moisture loss and keeps the hair feeling less dry.
Extremely hot water, on the other hand, is best avoided regardless of hair type, since it can strip away too much of the hair's natural protective oils and leave both the hair and scalp feeling dry or irritated. You also run the risk of getting burned.
Healthy, shiny hair depends far more on using the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, washing at an appropriate frequency, minimizing heat and chemical damage, and maintaining good overall hair care habits than on the temperature of the water alone. Water temperature can make a modest difference, but it won't dramatically change the health of the hair itself.
However, I do know many people who take entirely cold showers and enjoy them for a variety of reasons, from feeling more refreshed to simply preferring the sensation. During hot summer months, a cold shower can be comfortable and invigorating.
So, while shampooing exclusively with cold water won't make your hair noticeably shinier or healthier, it isn't harmful. If you enjoy it and your hair and scalp respond well, there's no reason you can't continue the practice.
©Hairfinder.com
See also:
What is the best water to wash your hair with: cold, warm or as hot as possible?
How does shampoo clean the hair?
For how long should I keep shampoo on my hair before washing it out?