You Are Probably Showering Way Too Much, According To Experts

Many people actually shower every single day, which, believe it or not, isn’t the best practice. However, this is common for many individuals, and it’s something that people get criticized for when they skip a shower.

It has come to light that those who skip showers might be correct, and those of you who shower daily could be doing more harm than good. When looking at the facts, many experts say that how often you shower is actually dependent on the individual.

This could be affected by how often you work, whether you work out, or if you have medical conditions. Body odor and overall washing needs for your body, skin type, age, and even how active you are should be considered when determining the ideal frequency for showering.

If you’re someone who showers every day, you are probably among the majority, but experts have stated that many of these daily showerers don’t even need to. We’re going to take a look into this and see when the best times are for you to shower and how often you should shower based on your personal circumstances.

Daily showers are definitely common among many different people.

Dr. Mary Stevenson, an assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Health, said that the frequency of showering should be tailored to each individual. “You should be showering, bathing, or cleansing yourself every two to three days,” Dr. Stevenson advised.

Dr. Stevenson mentioned that those who are active or work out daily should rinse off after their physical activity. “What people tend to do is soap up their entire body, which is really not necessary,” she explained. “You really only need soap in your armpits, your groin, and your feet—places where you get stinky.”

She recommends against scrubbing every inch of our bodies and advises us to focus on certain areas.

Pexels

We’ve all heard that the soaps we use are actually too harsh for our skin, and this doctor reiterates that point.

Dr. Stevenson stated that using gentler products is key, and that not soaping your whole body is important as well. Using too much soap can strip your skin, make it dry, and can have even more harmful effects on people with sensitive skin.

She also noted that long, hot showers are not great for your skin and body, as they strip away natural oils and barriers. She said, “We like to say keep it to three minutes and keep it lukewarm.”

She actually recommended looking at the ingredients in products for babies or those designed for sensitive skin, as they usually contain fewer ingredients.

Pixels

This isn’t something we’ve just heard today, as there have been claims over the years that many of us are doing more harm than good by using scented soaps, taking hot showers, and showering frequently. Finding a showering schedule that works for you is essential to ensuring you stay healthy while remaining clean.

Shower Frequency and Skin Health

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist at Mount Sinai Hospital, asserts that showering too frequently can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. He explains that for most people, showering every other day is sufficient to maintain cleanliness without compromising skin health.

Moreover, excessive washing can disrupt the skin's microbiome, which plays a crucial role in protecting against infections. To mitigate these effects, Zeichner recommends shorter showers and using gentle, hydrating cleansers that support the skin's barrier function.

Dr. Kelly Brogan, a psychiatrist and wellness advocate, emphasizes that self-care routines, including showering, should be tailored to individual needs and lifestyles. She suggests that instead of adhering to daily showering, individuals should listen to their bodies and adjust their routines accordingly.

For those who feel they need a daily shower, she recommends incorporating mindfulness techniques during the process, like focusing on the sensations of water and aroma of soap, to enhance relaxation and mental clarity.

Psychological Framework & Solutions

In conclusion, it's essential to recognize that showering practices should be personalized rather than one-size-fits-all. Health experts like Dr. Zeichner and Dr. Brogan highlight the importance of balancing hygiene with skin health and mental well-being.

By adopting a mindful approach to showering and considering frequency based on individual needs, people can improve their overall skin health and mental clarity. Understanding one's body and its unique requirements can lead to a more effective and enjoyable self-care routine.