It makes sense, as the face tends to get the skin care attention overall.
Except in the shower.
But are you taking your “healthiest” shower?
And on that note, what does a better-for-skin shower even look like?
What we mean by taking a healthier shower.
And now, it’s time to pay attention.
But first, let’s go over the microbiome and its functions.
Yourmicrobiomeis a beautiful thing.
She goes on to note that “the microbiome differs with age and gender.
And even then, we’re really only scratching the surface.
“We know that you don’t want to be sterile, or without these microbes.
The function is far greater in scope than what we can actually understand right now.
How your shower may be harming it and what to do.
Take a moment to think about your daily shower.
First up, is it dailyor more or less?
What’s the temperature of the water?
How long is it?
Are you washing your full body with a lathering, sudsy soap?
What sort of ingredients are in that soap?
Do you exfoliate at any pointand if so, how often?
After the shower, do you apply a lotion or cream?
Indeed, a lot of variables to consider.
“One thing I like to make clear is that this is a personal decision,” reminds Hamblin.
However, if you want to make changes, it is possible to think outside the box.
And we’re not going to tell you there’s a right answer.
“For many people, daily showering isn’t a big problem,” says Hamblin.
Water temperature
Temperature plays a large role in the list of variables.
You’ve likely heard this before but it bears repeating: Do not take too hot of a shower.
When this happens, you compromise your skin barrier, full stop.
Stick to lukewarm water always.
“This is a sign that you have tremendously rehydrated your skin.”
“That’s a very simple way to change your habits.”
Soap and ingredients
Perhaps one of the most important variables in the equation: your soap.
We recommend avoiding those ingredientswhile also looking for options with added skin-care-focused ingredients.
As for irritants, some people are more susceptible to fragrances and the like.
Also, parabens and other common preservatives have beenlinked to allergic reactions.
Some showers only call for a light rinse of water.
This seals in the water, replenishes your skin’s lipids, and preventstransepidermal water loss2.
The takeaway.
You may not think about your shower habits.
