Keeping skin healthy and clean is vitally important so showering regularly should be part of everyone’s routine. Showering is the only opportunity we have for washing off dirt, grime, and bacteria from all over the body. However, when you shower your skin can become dry and will need help to retain moisture and oils that help to keep it soft and healthy. Here are five after shower mistakes that could damage your skin:
1. Showering too frequently
Many of us shower every day—it’s the most convenient way to clean your body. However, showering daily is also the quickest way to damage your skin. Over-showering can dry out your skin too quickly because you take away moisture from your epidermis and dermis layers. If you shower too frequently, you’ll dry out the outer layer of skin that contains natural oils called sebum. This combination of sebum and oil on top prevents bacteria from entering your skin and causing irritation or infection.
2. Using water that is too hot
Hot water can be damaging to your skin. The heat of the water can force the pores to open, allowing bacteria and dirt to enter. Using hot water can also strip oils from your skin and cause unnecessary dryness. It is important to use lukewarm water that feels comfortable. Don’t use any products during this time because they will also strip your skin of sebum. This can cause your pores to produce more oil, leading to more acne or irritation.
3. Washing your hair too often
Many of us tend to wash our hair every day, but it can be frustrating to keep your hair constantly clean. It is normal for your hair and scalp to build up oils daily to stay healthy and if you wash your hair too frequently, it will eventually dry out because you are removing these oils. This can cause flakes or dryness that causes itching, which could lead to infection. That is why it is important to use products that will not strip your hair of its natural oils. It is also important to be careful not to take too long when washing your hair in the shower because it can be harmful to do so.
4. Using a dirty towel
Using a dirty towel to dry off is a common mistake that many people make. If you tend to use the same towel for a long period without washing it, you are increasing the chances that it will be covered in bacteria and other harmful substances. This can cause skin infections, acne, irritation, and dryness as well as itchiness. Washing your towels ensures they remain clean and free of bacteria. It’s also important to use different towels for the face and body in order to not spread bacteria and germs.
5. Not moisturizing skin after a shower
It’s important to moisturize your hair and skin after showering so that they don’t dry out with body butter, body oil, or other alternatives. It’s also good to shower and moisturize right before bed so your skin can soak in the moisture overnight. This is important in maintaining healthy skin because it provides a barrier to the outside environment.
