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Title: Showering Too Often Can Harm Your Skin, Say Dermatologists

Published: Sun 5 Nov 2023, 10:16 PM
Last updated: Sun 5 Nov 2023, 10:20 PM

If you feel the need to shower daily, you’re certainly not alone. According to a recent survey of over 5,700 US adults, more than 60% reported showering at least once a day. However, dermatologists argue that many people may not need, and may not want, to shower this frequently.

Dr. Joyce Park, a dermatologist in Seattle, emphasizes that the frequency of washing skin and hair is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It depends on factors such as skin and hair type, sweat levels, and dirt exposure. Showering too often can lead to dry skin, worsening redness, itchiness, flaking, and triggering eczema flares.

While some individuals benefit from daily showers, such as those who sweat a lot, washing away sweat and buildup that can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts, others may be better off showering less frequently. People with oily hair may want to shampoo daily to prevent product and excess oil buildup that can clog pores and lead to scalp irritation. Likewise, those with dandruff should shampoo daily to eliminate the fungi causing the condition.

Individuals with eczema, dry, or sensitive skin might consider showering every other day. Soap and water can exacerbate dry skin, causing irritation and itchiness. Additionally, frequent showers can dry out the skin, increasing the risk of skin infections. To minimize dryness, experts recommend picking gentle cleansers or bar soaps that contain moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.

Being thoughtful about showering practices is also crucial. Showers instead of baths are preferable since exposing the skin to hot, dirty, or soapy water for extended periods can cause irritation. However, certain types of baths, such as sitz baths, oatmeal baths, or diluted bleach baths, can be helpful in treating specific conditions.

For individuals with dry hair or scalp, limiting shampooing to once or twice a week is sufficient. Curly or coiled hair may require less frequent shampooing as well. Those with eczema or sensitive skin can still clean their bodies daily by keeping showers short and not too hot. Applying soap only to areas that need it the most, like the armpits, groin, hands, feet, and visibly dirty parts, is recommended. When it comes to the sensitive skin around the genital area, using a mild, fragrance-free cleanser is advised.

To minimize overall skin dryness, irritation, and itching, it’s important to choose gentle cleansers or bar soaps with moisturizing ingredients. Fragrance-free cleansers are preferred over unscented ones to avoid potential skin irritations caused by masking fragrances.

After showering, patting the skin dry instead of rubbing is recommended, followed by applying moisturizer from head to toe on damp skin.

The key is to find the right balance and customize showering practices according to individual needs. So, before reaching for that bar of soap or turning on the shower, consider what’s best for your skin and hair.