We all love the luxury of an everything shower, but is there such a thing as being ‘too clean’?
While it may sound silly, experts are saying that some people are going overboard with their cleaning regimes.
Many users on the likes of TikTok promote using multiple soaps, gels, and scrubs to properly clean yourself.
These tips include using antibacterial soap to cleanse your skin, but some are saying this is completely unnecessary.
According to research, showering with antibacterial soap is no more effective than using plain unscented soap.
While the name would make you think it’s a cleaner form of soap, it can actually kill too much bacteria.
“Our skin is made up of a microbiome – this is the term used to describe all the organisms that live on our skin,” Dr. Rekha Tailor told Glamour UK.
“If this balance of microorganisms and if this is altered too much with shower-gel and over-washing, the skin can lose its natural defence mechanisms and affect the immune system so that the skin is more prone to problems such as dryness, infections and sensitivity.”
If you already suffer from dry skin, it’s important to be mindful about your shower routine.
Even when we lather moisturiser on afterwards, over-exfoliating can cause rough and dry skin, so it’s best to only do it once a week.
Another important thing to note what we use to clean ourselves.
We probably all have a loofah in the shower, but many dermatologists say to avoid them completely.
Loofahs harbour bacteria as the air in the bathroom is often warm and humid.
Unless you’re leaving it to fully dry and replacing it every few uses, you’re probably better off without it.
While the idea of an extensive everything shower is nice, it’s important to remember that everyone’s skin is different.
READ MORE:
- We asked a dermatologist what mistake all Irish women are making
- Applying your skincare in the shower is bad for your skin, experts warn
- How to make your perfume last longer
