These include taking a shower once daily, avoiding turning the temperature too high, and washing your hands instead of using a flannel.
A skin expert has revealed how the British shower habit is failing to clean up, from altogether leaving out body parts such as ears, toes, and legs to using too many products. Dermatologist Dr. Aliya Ahmed recommends 10 bathing habits to improve skin health and appearance, including washing all products thoroughly, avoiding products with harsh ingredients like alcohol, and choosing warm water over hot.
The study of 5,000 adults revealed that 62 percent prefer a hot or “piping hot” shower, and 80 percent turn on the heating at this time of year.
But dermatologists explain that while it’s easy to turn up the heat when you’re cold, this can also irritate the skin and worsen already dry, itchy skin.
“The shorter the shower, the better, as long showers can take their toll on the skin, especially in hard water areas – I recommend only five minutes if possible.”
“Repeated exposure to hard water can lead to skin build-up, which can lead to dryness and irritation through skin barrier dysfunction.”
Adults spend twice as much time underwater, an average of 10 minutes, and 45 percent said they would stay longer if they had the time.
Furthermore, one in ten people always cleans with body wash twice rather than once, and 90 percent like to feel ‘clean’ after showering.
To experience this, 52 percent ensure the product foams well, and 35 percent use a sponge or flannel to reach “hard-to-reach” areas.
There is no need to double wash after a shower. While many people want this clean feeling because it feels more “hygienic,” it’s unnecessary for your skin to be clean, which could be a sign that the products you’re using are drying out your skin.
“Foam doesn’t mean clean skin, and hands are more effective than flannel, which can pick up a lot of bacteria if you don’t wash your hands regularly.”
It is recommended to use a moisturizing body wash, finish with a stream of cool water to smooth the cuticles of your hair, and choose a product based on your skin and hair type.
The novel had me hooked from the first page! The author’s vivid descriptions and fascinating characters are hard to put down. I immersed myself in the story, eagerly anticipating every twist and turn.
Thank you