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If you're looking to change up your bath time routine, then a milk bath could help take your bathing to the next level! Milk baths have been around for centuries and are a fabulous way of helping you get the most from your bath time.
But many don't realise the potential benefits of taking a regular milk bath. Here, The Bathroom Showroom considers why milk baths are so popular. We also show you how to take advantage of this trend.

The History of The Milk Bath

You may often hear a milk bath referred to as a Cleopatra bath! Perhaps the most famous person to bathe in milk was indeed the Egyptian queen, Cleopatra. In fact, some would say she’s the milk bath inventor!
Used to enhance her captivating beauty, it’s suggested that Cleo preferred milk baths for their supposed power to reduce wrinkles. 
Though, it has been said that Cleo's preference was for donkey milk. Yet, she was partial to milk and honey and a scattering of rose petals and lavender in her many baths. 
One thing’s for sure though, is that Cleopatra’s famous complexion was indeed a beautifully clear one!

The Continuing Popularity of Milk Baths in the 21st Century

Nowadays, milk baths remain popular, perhaps due to the staggering varieties of milk available. Also, so many of us are looking to take our bathing experience to the next level. So, by trying to recreate spa-like features in our bathrooms, never before has the milk bath been so popular. 
Admittedly there isn't proven scientific data on the effectiveness of milk baths, as such. Yet, the fact they’ve continued to prove popular centuries later tells us a lot about their effectiveness!

The Benefits of a Milk Bath

For those taking such baths, there are several milk bath benefits:
  • Milk baths can nourish the skin
Undeniably, those who take regular milk baths report a reduction in dry skin. This is all thanks to the rich moisturising properties of milk. 
By adding milk to your bath you can work to exfoliate, moisturise, and hydrate your skin. This helps it both look and feel fabulous each time you step out of the bath. 
  • Milk baths can provide relief for inflammatory skin conditions
For those suffering from skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, milk is a more natural bath addition. Adding milk to the bath can bring much-needed cooling relief. This keeps the bath free from irritating fragrances and preservatives.
Also, some people find this cooling element immensely helpful when helping with sunburn relief.
  • Milk baths can aid in relaxation 
Those who regularly bathe in milk suggest this bath choice relieves stress, eases tension, and thus aids a night of restful sleep.
Milk baths provide a fantastic psychological effect in their luxurious look and feel. So, the act of soaking in a milk bath helps many instantly relax and unwind. 

The Most Popular Bath Milk Choices

Now we’ve explored the amazing benefits, the question is what type of liquid milk is best for your milk bath?
  • Cow milk
Perhaps the most commonly-used milk choice is cow’s milk. Widely available and inexpensive, full fat or whole milk is a popular milk bath choice as it creates a most nourishing feel on the skin.
  • Almond milk
An almond milk bath is a nutty choice that not only smells divine but is a thoroughly oil-rich milk choice. Therefore, it leaves a spectacular smooth feel on the skin.
  • Coconut milk
Coconut milk has a rich, milky texture and a deliciously sweet aroma. A coconut milk bath is a delightful invigorating treat as it promotes essential fatty acids that balance the skin.
  • Oat Milk 
An oat milk bath is the prefered milk choice for those who require a soothing bath. The properties in oat milk are considered to be moisturising, making it a good reducer for irritated and tired skin.
  • Buttermilk
This fancy-sounding milk type makes for a perfect milk bath choice thanks to its increased lactic acid. A buttermilk bath is said to work wonders at exfoliating the skin. 
  • Goat milk
With a high-fat content, a goat milk bath is perfect for soothing due to this milk's stronger and creamier properties. 
  • Soya milk
If you’re a vegan, there's no reason why you should miss out on a milk bath. Soya milk is a fantastic alternative and provides a replenishing vegan milk bath.

How to Run Yourself a Milk Bath

The simplest part, once you’ve chosen your choice of milk, is running a milk bath. In fact, it couldn't be easier:
  1. Run your bath water to your prefered level.
  2. When your bath is full, add your choice of bath milk in one to two cups.
  3. Lie in the bath, relax, and let the milk work its magic!

Milk Baths Are Harmless Treats for Both Body and Bath

Finally, though milk baths are considered safe enough for daily use, it’s always recommended that you rinse both your body and your bath after a milk bath. This will ensure you remove any sticky residue from the bath area while keeping you smelling fresh!
If you’re looking for further ways to mix up your bath time, then check out our Rest & Relaxation section. With articles ranging from the best essential oils for the bath to showering better for fabulous skincare, we provide a wealth of bathroom inspiration to help you make the most of your bathroom.