You’ve been showering since you were a kid, so you’ve got it down, right? Not necessarily. Many of us have ingrained habits that can accidentally strip our skin, damage our hair, and even create safety hazards.
We consulted top dermatologists and aestheticians to uncover the biggest shower blunders. Here are the 7 things you should stop doing immediately for healthier skin and hair.
1. Using Piping Hot Water 🔥
It might feel relaxing, but hot water is one of the worst things for your skin.
Why it’s bad: It strips away your skin’s natural protective oils, leading to dryness, flakiness, and irritation.
The Fix: Switch to warm water. Your skin will feel clean without the tight, dry feeling afterward.
2. Showering For Too Long ⏳
Lingering under the spray for a long, steamy session can be counterproductive.
Why it’s bad: Prolonged exposure to water, especially warm water, breaks down your skin’s natural lipid barrier, causing moisture loss and itchiness.
The Fix: Keep your showers to 8-10 minutes maximum.
3. Using a Scrub Directly in the Water Stream 💧
If you apply a body scrub while standing under the shower stream, most of it is going right down the drain.
Why it’s bad: The water washes the scrub away before its exfoliating particles can do their job.
The Fix: Step out of the water to apply and gently massage your scrub onto damp skin, then rinse.
4. Over-Using a Loofah 🧽
That loofah might feel invigorating, but it can be a hidden hub for bacteria.
Why it’s bad: Loofahs stay damp and create the perfect environment for germs, mold, and yeast to grow. Rubbing your skin with a dirty loofah can lead to breakouts and infections.
The Fix: Opt for a washcloth you can lafter after each use or your hands. If you love your loofah, replace it every 3-4 weeks and let it dry completely between uses.
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