Doctor reveals the free shower hack that boosts your skin health

As Britons spend big every month on and anti-ageing products, a dermatologist has now revealed a simple bathroom hack could do a similar job - for free. It is estimated the UK spends a staggering £6.5 billion a year on skincare - with each adult forking out around £43 per month on products.

But according to a dermatologist, changing just one part of your daily routine could make a significant difference to your skin's appearance and overall . Dr Helena Watson spoke out courtesy of bathroom and kitchen experts at to explain how finishing your shower with a short burst of cold water may help support -without spending a penny on .

Explaining just why cold water works, Dr Watson said: "It might be uncomfortable at first, but briefly ending your shower with cold water can stimulate circulation and reduce inflammation.

"These effects, over time, may help improve skin tone and reduce puffiness."

While hot showers can feel relaxing, they may also strip the skin of its natural oils and leave it dry or irritated. Cold water, by contrast, helps constrict pores and may support the skin's protective barrier by tightening the outer layer and helping reduce temporary redness or irritation.

"It's not a miracle solution," Dr Watson notes, "but for people dealing with dull or tired-looking skin, this simple change can be surprisingly helpful."

Her method is straightforward - at the end of your regular shower, turn the temperature to 'cold' for the final 30 seconds.

Focus on areas like the face, neck, and shoulders, but avoid staying under cold water too long, particularly during colder months.

"Even just a short burst is enough to stimulate blood flow without putting unnecessary stress on the body," says Dr Watson. "Start slow and gradually build your tolerance over time."

She also recommends gently patting the skin dry with a soft towel afterwards and applying a moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp. "That helps lock in hydration and supports the skin barrier."

It's a natural way to support the skin:

Cold water exposure has long been part of wellness practices, from Nordic bathing traditions to modern cold therapy. While it won't replace the need for sunscreen, cleansing, or a balanced diet, it can serve as a beneficial addition to a broader skincare approach.

"It's particularly helpful in the mornings when the body and skin can benefit from a natural energising boost," says Dr Watson. "It helps wake up the system and leaves the skin looking refreshed."

Accessible and cost-free:

At a time when many are looking to reduce spending on beauty products, this method requires no purchase-just a slight shift in routine.

"You don't need to invest in anything," she adds. "And because it may help you reduce the use of certain skincare products, it could even save money over time."

A healthy habit to try at home:

A simple switch in showering habits could help people feel more confident in their skin-naturally and affordably.

A spokesperson from Plumbworld added: "Some of the best improvements to health and wellbeing don't come from products-they come from habits. This shows how the bathroom can play a bigger role in skin care than most people realise."