The skin a very complex instrument; sensitive to changes in temperatures. Any extreme changes in heat or cold affect the skin. The skin contains sebaceous glands that produce sebum (the skin’s own natural oil) which coat the surface of the skin. Sebum can be found in high concentrations on the face and scalp. This protective oil coats the skin.
There is nothing more relaxing than a hot shower. But if you care about your skin you may want reconsider before you plunge ahead
Long hot showers strip the skin of natural oils causing dry skin. The hotter the water the more likely damage can occur; leading to burns or blisters. In some ways this is reminiscent to over exposure to the sun where burning and drying of the skin will increase proportional to exposure.
Diabetics who loose sensation in their feet will often use a hot water bottle to restore warmth. The lost of
sensation (diabetic neuropathy) can occur in other areas of the body and is due to nerve damage.
This can make them especially susceptible to skin damage, dryness, burns and infection. Because, the diabetic may not even know they have a blister or burn. So, dry skin is only half of your worries.
An interesting case in point was of a diabetic patient who sustain such burns when sleeping overnight with a hot water bottle to warm his feet.
To be on the safe side turn the tap down. Luke warm is better than hot. Be sure to always use a good moisturizer to restore moisture daily.
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