Understanding Body Temperature Regulation
The human body is continuously generating heat as part of the metabolism process, which is crucial for maintaining core temperature. This generated heat circulates through the bloodstream and reaches the body's surface, where it dissipates into the environment through various means such as radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation.
The Balance of Heat Production and Dissipation
Individuals with a strong immune system typically have a well-functioning temperature regulation mechanism. In a balanced state, when the body temperature tends to drop, heat production increases while heat dissipation decreases, allowing the body to maintain an approximate temperature of 37°C.
Risks of Washing Hair at Night
For those with a weakened immune system, the automatic adjustment of body temperature may not function optimally. Exposure to cold, whether on the entire body or a specific area, can lead to colds. For example, washing hair with hot water expands the capillaries in the scalp, increasing heat radiation to the surroundings. However, wet hair leads to significant moisture evaporation, which also carries away heat. In fact, the evaporation of 1 gram of water can remove around 500 calories of heat.
Consequences of Increased Heat Loss
This heightened heat dissipation can leave the body feeling cold, causing the capillaries in the upper respiratory tract to constrict reflexively. This reduction in local blood flow lowers the resistance of the upper respiratory tract, allowing pre-existing viruses or bacteria to thrive, resulting in symptoms like a runny nose, nasal congestion, headaches, and even fever.
If one falls asleep with wet hair, the body’s temperature regulation system can become impaired, making it more susceptible to colds. Therefore, it is generally advisable to avoid washing hair just before sleep. If you must wash it, use a dry towel to pat your hair dry and then blow-dry it before sleeping to reduce the risk of falling ill.
Wet Hair and Sleep Issues
Many women experience unexplained headaches and insomnia that may be linked to sleeping with damp hair. Besides health implications, sleep quality plays a significant role in beauty and skin health. Establishing a good sleep routine and finding the optimal time for rest can greatly enhance both well-being and appearance.
The quality of sleep can also be influenced by one’s mental state before falling asleep. Shampooing before bedtime may lead to a heightened state of alertness, causing individuals to ruminate on stressful thoughts, which can adversely affect sleep quality.
The Benefits of Morning Hair Washing
Waking up after a good night’s sleep and washing your hair with warm water can result in a refreshing feeling and a boost in energy. As the saying goes, “beauty comes from restful sleep.” According to actress Zhang Manyu, “No matter what, I won’t shorten my sleep time.” Proper sleep is indeed a vital natural remedy that surpasses any beauty product, making it particularly important for women to prioritize healthy, restorative sleep.