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Taking a Hot Bath Is Better for You Than You Think! Here Are 7 Physical and Mental Benefits

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By Dahvi Shira
Published on January 23, 20255 min read
An image of a woman's feet in a bubble bath
An image of a woman's feet in a bubble bath
Photo by stevecoleimages / Getty Images

Sure, showers offer a full, head-to-toe refresh—but there are health benefits of hot baths that just don't compare. Haven’t you wondered why you get a serotonin boost and whole body relaxation after time in a sauna, hot tub, hot springs, or other form of heat therapy? Hot water baths are great for lazy moments when you want to immerse in essential oils. You know, those times when you don’t want to stand up getting the warm water temperature just right in the shower. They’re also actually really important for your physical and mental health well-being (think dry skin conditions—aka eczema, joint pain/sore muscles, immune system, sleep quality, heart health, lower blood pressure, and other health conditions). Don’t believe us? Leave it to our skincare specialist and holistic wellness expert Melanie Abeyta of Harmony Aesthetics Center, who speaks on evidence-based benefits. 

“Hot baths are one of the simplest, most luxurious ways to reset your mind and body,” our expert explains. “It’s not just about soaking in bubbles and candles—though, let’s be honest, that's amazing. A warm bath is truly a wellness ritual that can transform how you look and feel.” Abeyta breaks down the biggest benefits of hot baths below.

It's about glam time you treated yourself.
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Meet the Expert

Melanie Abeyta is a nurse practitioner and owner of Harmony Aesthetics Center, which focuses on holistic wellness.

7 Benefits of Taking a Hot Bath

1. Stress Relief

Let’s face it: Stress does not discriminate. We are all prone to anxiety, and can use a little all-natural assistance.

“Life gets busy and stress can show up on your skin, in your mood, and even in your energy levels,” Abeyta points out. “A hot bath works wonders to calm your nervous system. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm hug that helps melt the tension away and bring you back to balance.”

We love upping our self-care game with something like the HIGHLINE WELLNESS

CBD Bath Bomb, which calms our mind, body, and soul. Ahh, say no more. 

2. Improved Circulation

While we tend to take hot baths before bed, Abeyta notes that these self-care moments are recommended around the clock.

“The heat from a bath gets your blood flowing, which is amazing for your skin and your overall health,” she says. “This increased circulation can leave your skin glowing and give your body that energized, refreshed feeling.”

3. Detoxification

Whether from a late night out, or a seasonal cold, there’s nothing worse than feeling stuffed up.

“Sweating in a hot bath helps your body naturally detox by flushing out toxins,” Abeyta explains.
“Add some Epsom salts and you’ve got a powerhouse combination to ease muscle tension and promote even deeper cleansing.”

We’re all for immersing ourselves in the WHISH Desert Collection Bath Soak, which melts our cares and ailments away. 

4. Better Sleep 

We’ll be the first to admit we’ve used a bath as a middle-of-the-night sleeping aid. And Abeyta supports our efforts. 

“If you’re struggling to wind down at night, a hot bath can be your best friend,” she says. “Soaking before bed helps lower your core body temperature (after you get out), signaling to your body that it’s time to rest. Hello, beauty sleep!”

5. Skin Hydration 

Applying body care products from head to toe after we rinse can feel like a tedious task. Luckily, a bath can actually take care of leg work for us.

“A bath isn’t just relaxing, it’s also a great way to boost skin hydration,” the expert says. “Add oils or bath soaks with nourishing ingredients like oatmeal, honey, or lavender to lock in moisture and keep your skin feeling soft and supple.”

6. Hormone Balancing 

Who needs meds when we can immerse ourselves in hot water?

“For those dealing with PMS, cramps, or just the general rollercoaster of hormones, a hot bath can help relax tense muscles, ease discomfort, and promote a sense of calm when you need it most,” Abeyta says.

7. Time to Reconnect with YOU 

Honestly, how often do you take a moment just for yourself? 

“A hot bath is the perfect excuse to tune out the world, reflect, and focus on your own wellness,” Abeyta says. “Light a candle, play your favorite playlist, or grab a book. It’s your time to recharge and show yourself some love.” 

We second those sentiments, which is why we won’t slip into our tub without a cozy little GRACE & STELLA Waterproof Bath Pillow. Alongside a few spoonfuls of MIDNIGHT PALOMA Lavender + Chamomile Calming Bath Soak? Oh, we are good to go.

Final Thoughts

When we initially think of baths, relaxation and rejuvenation come to mind. In fact, they often serve in place of a sleep aid. But these moments of luxuriating benefit all of us on a much deeper level. They help ease pain relief, they flush out toxins, and so much more. There are benefits of hot baths that you just won’t find in a shower, and we are in full support of this necessary me-time.   

“The next time you’re looking for a little pick-me-up or a way to unwind, don’t underestimate the power of a hot bath,” Abeyta concludes. “It’s self-care, beauty care, and wellness all rolled into one steamy, soothing soak. You deserve it!”

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