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Dark Shower Can Help You Sleep Better, Experts Say
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If you’re chronically online, you’ve probably heard of “dark showers”. If not, they’re exactly what they sound like: showering with the overhead lights off or dimmed. Using just one soft, moody light source has drawn considerable talk online as a way to boost mood and lower stress while showering—the perfect ending to a long day.
It sounds pretty straightforward, but what do experts think of the trend? “If a dark shower helps someone relax and reduce stress levels, that can support healthier skin over time. This may translate to fewer stress-related flares, improved barrier function, and better overall skin resilience,” explains New York-based dermatologist Dr. Brianna Olamiju, MD. “While the lighting itself isn’t therapeutic, the stress reduction component absolutely matters in dermatology.” She notes that stress is a well-established trigger for many skin conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and chronic hives. “Elevated stress increases cortisol and inflammatory signaling in the body, which can worsen breakouts, delay barrier repair, and provoke flares,” she adds.
But while the time in the tub can be calming to the nervous system, dermatologists do make a subtle warning to showerers.
“In very low light or darkness, people may be more likely to miss areas when cleansing (such as the back, underarms, or behind the ears) or to exfoliate unevenly or too aggressively without visual cues. This can be relevant for individuals with acne-prone skin, folliculitis, or conditions like keratosis pilaris,” says Dr. Olamiju. She also notes that dim showers may make noticing skin changes, like new rashes or signs of infection, a bit harder (and thus may make these discoveries easier to overlook until symptoms worsen).
“I generally advise patients that if they enjoy dark showers for relaxation, they should balance that with practical skin care habits: avoid overly hot water, keep showers short, cleanse gently, moisturize immediately afterward, and do periodic full-body skin checks in good lighting,” says Dr. Olamiju. In other words, think of dark showers as a wellness ritual—not a replacement for attentive skin care.
Dying to hop in the tub and put this whole dark shower trend to the test? Ahead, find some of the best products for your new, buzzy wellness routine.
Native Body Wash in Cashmere and Rain
is a cozy-clean crowd-pleaser, with a soft, comforting scent that feels especially soothing in a low-light, wind-down shower. The gentle, sulfate-free formula lathers well without needing bright lights or mirrors—perfect for an intentional, sensory-first rinse.
Salt & Stone Body Lotion in Bergamot & Hinoki
pairs fast-absorbing hydration with a serene, spa-like scent of citrus and wood that feels especially indulgent after a low-light shower. Infused with seaweed extracts, niacinamide, and plant-derived oils to help soothe and strengthen your skin’s barrier, it dries down silky soft without feeling heavy.
Method Pure Peace Body Wash Bar (2 bars)
On Sale 42% off
brings a soft, floral escape with notes of water and peonies, perfect for unwinding in a dimly lit shower. Its gentle formula cleanses without stripping, allowing your skin to feel calm and nourished even in low light.
Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Scrub
turns even a dark shower into a mindful, spa-like moment. It pairs fine pumice and sugar crystals with botanicals for an exfoliating ritual that’s both tactile and aromatic.
Rael Collagen + PDRN Mask
delivers a boost of hydration and plumping power to stressed skin, and it’s the perfect post-shower self-care ritual step. The face mask’s hydrogel texture clings gently, letting your complexion soak in the glow.
CYKLAR Vitamin C Body Oil in Vanilla Verve
works and smells great. The oil combines brightening, antioxidant-rich vitamin C with nourishing oils for silky-soft skin. Its warm, vanilla scent enhances a calm, dim-shower mood while locking in moisture.
Summer Fridays Lip Balm in Vanilla
is a rich, hydrating treat for lips that can get neglected in the dark. With a buttery texture and subtle scent, it’s an amazing finishing touch to a low-light shower routine.
PHLUR Father Figure Natural Deodorant
blends natural ingredients with a soft vanilla-wood scent that’s understated yet comforting. Its clean, effective formula keeps you fresh without needing bright lights to double-check coverage.
Gillette Venus ComfortGlide
On Sale 6% off
make quick work of shaving in low light, thanks to their smooth, pivoting blades. The moisture strip ensures a glide that feels soft and protected even without full visibility or shaving cream.
Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo and Conditioner
transforms shower hair care into a luxurious, aromatic experience, even in the faintest light. Rich botanicals and silk proteins repair and restore while enveloping hair in the brand’s signature, soothing scent.
Editor’s Note: “I just started using these two products together, and wow, my locks have never felt softer (that’s saying a lot since I’ve tested quite a few shampoos and conditioners over the years). I also love the fragrance—it smells like it’s straight from the salon. The ingredients and scent make me feel like I’m truly treating my hair to all the good stuff.” —Katie Decker-Jacoby, Commerce Editor
