It is perfectly safe and often beneficial to wash your hair when you have COVID-19, contrary to old beliefs about illness and hygiene. The simple act of washing your hair with warm water and shampoo poses no risk of worsening a viral infection like SARS-CoV-2. Maintaining personal cleanliness can significantly enhance comfort and contribute to a sense of well-being during recovery. This routine hygiene practice helps you feel more refreshed and aids in managing overall symptoms.
The Primary Concern: Temperature and Water Exposure
The notion that washing your hair or showering while sick could make you “catch a chill” and prolong or worsen a cold or flu is a persistent medical myth. Taking a warm shower will not interfere with your body’s immune response to the virus.
In fact, a warm, steamy shower can offer temporary relief from common respiratory symptoms associated with COVID-19. The steam helps to moisten and loosen chest congestion and can clear stuffy nasal passages. The warmth can also be soothing for muscle aches and body pains. To prevent post-shower chilling, dry off quickly and completely, and put on warm, dry clothing immediately.
Managing Physical Limitations and Fatigue
While it is medically safe to wash your hair, the biggest barrier for many people with COVID-19 is the profound fatigue and physical weakness the virus can cause. Simple actions like standing in the shower or raising your arms can feel exhausting. To conserve energy, plan this activity for a time of day when your energy levels are typically at their peak.
A practical modification is to use a shower chair or bench so you can sit down instead of standing, which dramatically reduces the energy expenditure required. Gather all necessary items, such as shampoo, conditioner, and a towel, before starting the water to minimize reaching or moving. Keep the washing process brief, focusing only on the hair and body, and use a terry-cloth robe upon exiting to absorb moisture quickly without the strain of extensive towel drying. If standing causes dizziness or shortness of breath, the activity should be postponed.
Hygiene Considerations During Isolation
Maintaining hair hygiene is important while isolating, as the hair’s surface can potentially harbor viral particles transferred from hands or airborne droplets. Shampooing uses surfactants that bind to dirt, oil, and viruses, effectively removing them from the hair shaft. This process helps maintain cleanliness and reduces the chance of accidentally transferring anything to your face.
For days when a full shower feels too strenuous, dry shampoo is a helpful alternative to manage oil and odor without physical exertion. When you do wash your hair, ensure you use a dedicated towel that is not shared with other household members. Proper ventilation in the bathroom is also beneficial, as opening a window or slightly cracking the door helps reduce humidity and steam, making it easier to breathe for those with respiratory symptoms.