If you find yourself showering every day, you are not alone. In a 2021 survey of over 5,700 US adults, more than 60% said they shower daily.
However, dermatologists argue that many people do not need, and may not want, to shower this often.
Dr. Joyce Park, a dermatologist in Seattle, stated that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to washing skin and hair, emphasizing that the ideal frequency depends on varied factors including skin and hair type, sweating, and dirt exposure.
Showering too frequently can lead to dry skin, worsening redness, itchiness, and flaking, and triggering eczema flares, according to Dr. Park.
Nevertheless, some people, such as those who sweat a lot or have oily hair, benefit from daily showers. Similarly, people with dandruff may also want to shampoo every day to get rid of fungi that cause dandruff.
However, for those with eczema, dry, or sensitive skin, showering less frequently is recommended due to the potential for water and soap to exacerbate dry skin and cause irritation.
Overall, picking gentle cleansers or bar soaps that contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides can help minimize skin dryness, irritation, and itching.
This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
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