Shower vs. Bath: What Are the Benefits?

To shower or to bathe? That is the question—and the answer depends on your personal preferences in the moment. Are you more focused on hygiene, relaxation, skin health, or water conservation? Both cleansing options deliver numerous benefits, so which one is better for you—a shower or a bath?

Let’s compare the benefits of both to help you decide...

Shower vs. Bath: Which One Gets You Cleaner?
Showers remove dirt, sweat, and grime from the skin’s surface with a steady spray that whisks the contaminated water down the drain. A fast-paced shower provides a quick yet thorough cleanse, making it ideal for people with busy lifestyles.

Baths deliver a more immersive, cleansing soak that softens and soothes the skin in warm water. Unfortunately, the water eventually becomes soiled, so, many believe, taking a shower cleans your body better. That said, a restorative soak is a great delivery system for healing bath products:

• AROMAFLORIA Bubble Bath Collections (Muscle Soak & Sleep Ease) combine beneficial essential oils that lock in moisture and soothe the skin. Plus, our bubble bath doubles as a therapeutic shower gel.

• Sitz baths (with or without Epsom salt) alleviate discomfort in the lower body.

• Oatmeal baths relieve inflammation.

Regardless of your choice—shower or bath—both deliver plenty of essential benefits...

Relaxation and Stress Relief
Showers deliver a quick pick-me-up any time of the day or after a workout. The combination of cascading water and soothing steam provides instant relaxation plus a moment of much-needed mindfulness during a busy day.

Baths deliver all-over calm by relaxing the muscles, easing tension, and alleviating stress. Adding aromatic bath salts and/or bubbles to the tub increases relaxation, so sit back and just breeeeathe.

Skin Health and Moisture
Showers maintain healthy skin by effectively removing excess oils and sweat. However, frequent and prolonged hot showers strip the skin of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. To maintain a healthier moisture balance, keep your showers brief and lukewarm—not hot!

Baths are especially beneficial for people with dry or sensitive skin. Relaxing in warm water opens the pores, allowing moisturizing bath products to penetrate with ease. A hot bath causes dryness and aggravates certain skin conditions, so don’t scald like a lobster as you soak.

Water Conservation
Showers are more water-efficient than baths unless you take a reeeeally lonnnng one.

Baths require more water to fill the tub high enough to cover your body.

So, what will it be? A shower or a bath? 

Conclusion
A shower is a quick and efficient cleansing method—the perfect choice for busy individuals. A bath delivers relaxation, stress relief, and better skin hydration, but it requires more water. Incorporate showers and baths into your weekly routine to give your body the best of both.