Do you shower too often? Do you think there’s any such thing? Or, how about not showering often enough. Aside from perhaps having to withstand your own unique “presence”, are there any health risks associated with infrequent showering?
All good questions, so let’s have at it.
Showering Out of Habit
Some folks simply don’t feel clean, fresh, and ready to tackle the day without a long, hot shower. That’s fine, but daily showers aren’t making you cleaner or healthier. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it, just keep an eye on your skin to ensure it remains healthy looking and feeling.
Too Many Showers
Sure, showers and baths help remove odor, which society certainly appreciates. Yet too much bathing can raise your risk for certain health issues. Washing strips your skin of natural oils and can interfere with your skin’s ability to fight off bacteria, especially when using antibacterial soaps and cleansers. For some, over-showering can lead to dry, cracked skin which can open the door to infection-causing germs. As we age, our skin becomes thin and dehydrated, putting us at even greater risk.
How Many Showers are Enough?
Some experts agree that bathing once or twice a week is enough for most. However, the way you look, feel, or smell may warrant a more frequent soaking. Just be sure to wash your clothes frequently as they rub on your skin and collect the dead cells, dirt, and grime our bodies naturally accumulate. Also, avoid lathering your entire body. Focus on the areas that produce strong-smelling secretions.
Washing Your Hair
Washing your hair can be a little trickier. If you have a dry scalp or brittle hair, you may only need to lather it once every week or two. As with your skin, your hair and scalp get stripped of their natural oils with frequent washing.
However often you shower, or how many times a day your shower is used by various family members, you count on an ample supply of hot water. Still, water heaters can let you down. If that time is now, contact Connor Plumbing for the right solution: routine maintenance, high-quality repair work, or new system installation. We’re ready to help.
