If You Will Sleep Well: The Dark Shower Trend Explained

The so-called ‘dark shower’, which involves showering in a dark bathroom, has recently been trending on social media because it helps people sleep better, and experts say this method is effective.

According to NBC’s ‘Today’ on the 10th (local time), experts said that although there is not much research data on whether ‘dark showers’ are effective, they agree that they can help with good sleep and stress relief.

Dr. W. Christopher Winter, a neurologist who specializes in sleep, said in an interview with the media, “It is important to block out light before going to bed, but many people shower in unnecessarily bright environments. Although research in this area is lacking, limiting exposure to light while showering may have benefits such as improving sleep quality and falling asleep faster.”

Dr. Rebecca Robbins, an assistant professor at Harvard University and a researcher in the sleep disorders department at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, said, “Showering under dim lighting not only helps stimulate the secretion of melatonin, which helps you sleep, but is also a relaxing activity. Soft, warm light (red or orange) can stimulate melatonin secretion.”

However, experts recommend avoiding showering in complete darkness for safety reasons.

“It’s not a good idea to be in complete darkness,” Dr. Winter said, “because you could get injured.”

Additionally, it is a good idea to consider the temperature of the water. Studies have shown that showering with water between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius is best.

Dr. Winter said, “It is best to take an evening shower with warm water,” and “If your body feels cool after a shower, it helps you fall asleep.”

Hyeon Ye-seul ([email protected])