The Art of the Bath
Adapting an ancient ritual for the modern age 

Laura deCarufel

The lights are low; candles flicker. Lavender-scented steam rises to fill the room, while warm water soothes taut muscles and taut nerves. The ancient ritual of the bath: one of the world’s finest indulgences. And unlike double-chocolate cheesecake, it is good for you—helping to reduce anxiety, improve blood circulation and skin hydration, and even alleviate arthritis symptoms. Following the rules of thumb outlined below will allow for the best—and healthiest—bath possible.

First, water temperature. The words hot and bath fly off the tongue together as naturally as pouring and rain, but very hot water can severely dry the skin. Dr. Paul Cohen, a Toronto dermatologist, recommends using warm water. The temperature should be such that you can immerse yourself right away, without having to ease in gingerly, inch by inch. Warm water encourages blood circulation and loosens up tense muscles. To maintain constant warmth, leave a bit of hot water trickling from the tap. Bath steam can be wonderful for the skin. “Steam rehydrates the skin’s outer layer,” explains Dr. Poonam Rajan, another Toronto dermatologist. Because warmth opens the pores, steam penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin, loosening blackheads and other impurities, which, Rajan says, “makes it easier to remove them when cleansing and exfoliating.” By this same mechanism, steam also helps unblock ingrown hairs, which are one of the causes of razor burn. Cohen cautions, however, that people with acne rosacea—a chronic facial dermatitis with a rosy appearance and pimples—should be wary of steam, as it can irritate skin that is already sensitive.

Photo: Digital Vision Ltd. / SuperStock

Since warm bath water won’t create much steam, fill the tub and sink with very hot water and add essential oils (lavender is relaxing, while citrus- and eucalyptus-based oils are stimulating). Leave the room and close the door. In 20 minutes the room will be full of steam and smell divine, and the bath water will be the perfect temperature.

When washing, avoid soap, which is drying; instead, opt for a moisture-rich, soap-free body wash. The essential oils added to the running bath water will also help hydrate skin. “Oil emulsifies when it meets the water and then it is absorbed into the skin,” says Cohen.

Three baths a week is about the right number to combat stress without desiccating skin, adds Cohen, who also recommends spending a maximum of 15 minutes in the bath—a realistic time for a modern-day indulgence. Après-bath, pat yourself dry and apply moisturizer to damp skin for optimal absorption. Now you’re ready to face the day—or fall blissfully asleep.