Is it okay to take a shower after soaking my feet?

Mar 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 22 years old this year. I usually like to soak my feet in hot water at night. Some people say that one shouldn't take a shower immediately after soaking the feet. May I ask the doctor, is it okay to take a shower after soaking the feet?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin

It is acceptable to take a shower after a foot bath, but certain details should be noted. After a foot bath, the body is in a relaxed state, and showering at this time will not have adverse effects. Showering after a foot bath can also help clean the body, further relax the mind and body, and enhance comfort. However, the water temperature for both the foot bath and the shower should not be too high to avoid scalding the skin or causing excessive blood vessel dilation. Additionally, if traditional Chinese herbs or other special medicinal ingredients were used during the foot bath, their possible residue on the skin should be considered, as it may cause allergic reactions or discomfort in some individuals.

It is recommended to wait a short while before showering after a foot bath. During the foot bath, blood circulation is accelerated, and showering immediately afterward may cause the body to become chilled, thus affecting the benefits of the foot bath. It is better to wait until the body adjusts slightly to the ambient temperature, or until the feet are dried and warm socks are worn, before entering the bathroom to shower. At the same time, the water temperature during the shower should be kept moderate, avoiding excessively hot or cold water. The duration of the shower should also not be too long to prevent excessive fatigue or excessive loss of skin moisture.