Candlelit baths have long been the go-to for winding down, but a new internet habit is taking that same calming idea into the shower. The concept is simple, take your evening rinse in very low light instead of under bright bathroom bulbs. Fans say it helps them feel less stressed and more ready for sleep, and it requires almost no extra effort beyond switching off harsh lighting. As Unilad has noted, the appeal is in turning an everyday routine into something that feels more intentional.
The timing matters, too, because the debate over morning versus night showers never really ends. Dr. Aragona Giuseppe, a family doctor and medical advisor at Prescription Doctor, has spoken in favor of showering before bed, pointing out that skin and hair can collect irritants during the day. In comments shared with Glamour UK, he explained that allergens, pollution, sweat, and everyday grime can end up on your bedding if you go straight to sleep. Over time, that can mean itchier skin, more irritation, and even complexion flare-ups linked to oils and dirt transferring to pillowcases.
The “dark shower” trend takes that evening clean a step further by focusing on the nervous system. Nidhi Pandya, a certified ayurvedic practitioner, told Real Simple that unlike a morning shower that feels bright and energizing, a low-light shower is designed to signal relaxation. With the lights dimmed, the experience can feel like a sensory cocoon that encourages the body to soften its grip on the day. Instead of rushing through the steps, the reduced stimulation can make the water and warmth feel more grounding.
Psychologist Stefanie Mazer has also weighed in on why it may feel so soothing. She has explained that lowering visual input can help the nervous system settle, especially for people whose minds race after a long day. Fewer bright cues can mean fewer distractions, which may make it easier to release tension and stop spiraling thoughts. For some, it becomes a gentle transition between productivity mode and rest.
Sleep specialists say the bedtime connection is not just wishful thinking. Dr. Allie Hare, a consultant in sleep medicine at Royal Brompton Hospital, told The Independent that research suggests a warm shower or bath before bed can improve sleep quality and shorten the time it takes to fall asleep. One theory is that warming up and then cooling down helps drop core body temperature, which is a key signal that sleep is approaching. She also noted that dim light supports the body’s natural nighttime messaging, since lower light levels encourage melatonin release.
If you want to try it, keep it comfortably safe rather than truly pitch black. A candle, a night light, or a very soft lamp is usually enough to create the mood while still letting you see clearly. Some people also add quiet music to help the mind slow down without pulling attention back to screens. Have you tried showering in dim light, or does it sound like something you would test for a week, share your thoughts in the comments.
