There is something quite special about that “clean feeling” you get after a shower or bath. I never thought much about it. It was always just there and, more often than not, a necessary step in getting ready or winding down at the end of the day. 

It turns out there is quite a bit of research on this, and there are several things, in addition to soap, that can increase or decrease that wonderful squeaky clean feeling. For example, using a harsh soap on your skin would certainly make you feel clean — incredibly clean in a raw, itchy kind of way — but it would also make you uncomfortable and slightly irritated. Well, most of us would feel like that. I am sure someone out there is reading this and thinking that sounds perfectly fantastic for them, but for the majority of us, it is not.

So, here is a breakdown of how to achieve that squeaky clean feeling and dial it up when you need a little extra self-care.

First up, and perhaps the most obvious, is using a good soap that cleans the skin without drying it out. Lather and bubbles can also play a role; however, it is important to be mindful of what creates those lovely bubbles, as some additives can be drying to the skin. Handcrafted soaps often use oils such as coconut oil to naturally increase lather and bubbles.

Texture can also enhance the experience. Exfoliants add a gentle grit, while ingredients like shea butter create a dreamy, creamy feel. You can check out my previous articles on different types of soap, including cold process soap made with nourishing ingredients

Another obvious but often overlooked factor is the temperature of the water. Water temperature can be used in several ways to achieve different effects. Both warm and cold water activate the nervous system, but they do very different things.

Warm water can lower heart rate, reduce muscle tension, decrease cortisol (the stress hormone), and create feelings of calm and safety. It also increases blood circulation, which many people experience as a lighter mood, reduced fatigue, greater mental clarity, and physical relief.

In terms of hormones, warm water may also increase serotonin, dopamine, and endorphin activity — all beneficial for improving mood.

However, water that is too hot can dry out or irritate sensitive skin and may worsen conditions such as eczema or rosacea. Long, very hot showers can also leave some people feeling lightheaded due to lowered blood pressure, which is the opposite effect we are trying to create.

Cold water, although not nearly as inviting during the cooler months, can naturally increase alertness, stimulate adrenaline release, and create feelings of energy and resilience.

Another factor that can enhance a sense of well-being in the bath or shower is scent. Essential oils used in soaps, shower steamers, and bath bombs make excellent use of this. Citrus scents such as orange, mandarin, and lemon myrtle can be uplifting, while floral scents such as lavender are often associated with calmness and relaxation.

Throughout history, many cultures — including the Romans — have used bathing not only for cleanliness but also as a tool to boost mood, gain perspective, and increase creativity. Can you imagine how many novels, songs, plots and strategies have been conceived beneath the warm waters of a bath?