Most people think showering once a day is the norm, but there are plenty of people who don’t — and it might be healthier.. Here’s what dermatologists say:
Should we stop taking showers and accept our natural and not so pleasant smell? Not really, said the American dermatologists. It’s not that important how often you take a bath; it’s important HOW you take a bath! Forget about rubbing soap all over your body. The most difficult thing is to make people use the soap only in places where it is needed. The soap was made to remove oils from the skin and to make it dry. It is important to use the soap under your arms, in the groin, the feet and the rest of the places where we sweat, and we should skip the chests, the back, arms and legs – says Dr. Carlos Casey, professor of dermatology at the University of San Diego for “Today”
Dermatologists say that the water should be warm, not hot and that the shower should be short.
- People don’t realize that the skin does a pretty good job of cleaning itself – he said.
Some research has shown using an emollient body wash can clean and moisturize as well as using an after-shower product. Baths can actually be therapeutic for dry skin sufferers because a soak in lukewarm water helps the skin absorb the moisture. Dermatologists use the phrase “soak and smear.” Soak for 10 or 15 minutes, then smear on moisturizer. That technique can be superior to moisturizing after a shower.
Lots of people, Carlos said, think that tight, after-shower feeling is a sign of cleanliness, but it’s not. It means your skin is too dry.
