Many people believe they’ve got their bathing habits down, but even the most seasoned shower-goers might be making simple mistakes that harm their skin and health.
Here are the most important things to avoid next time you step into the shower.
Showering too often
Daily showers may feel refreshing, but unless you're visibly dirty or sweaty, it's usually unnecessary.
Overwashing strips your skin of its natural oils and beneficial bacteria, leading to dryness, irritation, and even a weakened skin barrier. Plus, it wastes water.
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Using the wrong soap
Antibacterial or heavily scented soaps can be too harsh. They kill good bacteria along with the bad and dry out the skin.
Instead, go for mild, moisturizing soaps or shower gels. If you have sensitive skin or eczema, fragrance-free products are a must.
Not washing your towel often enough
A damp towel is a paradise for bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Reusing it too many times can lead to issues like athlete’s foot or warts.
Wash or replace your towel at least once a week, and hang it on a bar – not a hook – to let it dry properly between uses.
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Not cleaning your loofah
Loofahs are excellent scrubbers, but they’re also excellent germ traps.
Clean them weekly in diluted bleach and replace them regularly – every 3 to 4 weeks for natural loofahs, and every 2 months for plastic ones.
Store them outside the shower to let them dry.
Blasting hot water
While a hot shower might feel amazing, it strips your skin of its protective oils and can cause irritation.
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Stick to warm water and try to limit your showers to 5–10 minutes, especially if you have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Washing your hair too often
Unless your scalp is very oily, daily shampooing is unnecessary. Curly, coarse, or chemically treated hair benefits from less frequent washing.
Even if you exercise daily, it’s often better to keep a consistent hair-washing schedule that prevents dryness.
Not installing a grab bar
Thousands of people suffer falls each year while getting in or out of the shower or tub.
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A simple grab bar and non-slip mats can significantly reduce the risk, particularly for older adults and children.
Not cleaning your showerhead
Showerheads are perfect environments for bacteria to thrive. When the water runs, these microbes can spray into the air.
Clean your showerhead by soaking it in boiling water and run hot water for a minute before stepping in to reduce exposure.
Not moisturizing right after
Moisturizer locks in water, so the best time to apply it is right after your shower – when your skin is still damp.
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Pat dry, then slather on your favorite lotion or cream within a few minutes to keep your skin hydrated and soft.
Using soap where you shouldn’t
Not every part of your body needs soap. Limit its use to areas like armpits, feet, hands, groin, and face. Warm water is enough for the rest.
Using soap in intimate areas, especially for women, can disrupt the natural balance and lead to irritation or infections.
Keeping minor cuts covered
There's no need to shield small wounds while showering. In fact, letting water and gentle soap cleanse a minor cut daily helps healing.
Remove the bandage before bathing, clean the wound, and re-cover it afterward.
Not using the bathroom fan
Steam from your shower can lead to excessive humidity, damaging walls and woodwork, and creating the perfect environment for mold.
Always turn on the fan while showering and let it run afterward until the room is dry.
Not cleaning your shower curtain
Soap scum and bacteria love to collect on shower curtains.
While it may just look gross to most people, it can pose a health risk if your immune system is compromised.
Clean or replace your curtain regularly to stay safe.
This article is based on information from WebMD.com.