Despite popular opinion, experts have argued why you shouldn’t need to shower every day, in fact, it’s kind of detrimental to your overall health.
Data from Harvard stated that two-thirds of Americans shower daily, which is over 60% of the nation. That number goes up considerably in other countries like Australia, where 80% of the populace showers daily.
Why you shouldn’t shower every day
For many, the day does not end until they step into the shower and wash away the chaos of working, looking after a family, and all of life’s other excitements. For others, jumping into a cubicle of hot water and steam is the only way to start the day. But as it turns out, it’s kind of pointless.
While it makes sense to shower daily if your job requires it, it’s actually working against your overall health for most people. For one, showering consistently at high temperatures is known to cause your skin to become dry, irritated, or itchy. If you’re already dealing with a skin condition like eczema, then hot water and steam will only make it worse.
Your dry and cracked skin also provides the perfect opportunity for pesky bacteria to sneak in to cause an infection or allergic reaction. Showering daily is also bad news for the friendly bacteria that live on you, as without them, nastier bacteria have a habit of taking their place.
Finally, our immune systems require a certain amount of grime, dirt, and bacteria to form what is known as an immune memory. Continued daily showers or baths can eventually negate your body’s ability to protect you.
“I’m not alone in [not showering every day],” environmentalist Donnachadh McCarthy told the BBC. “What I am alone in is being bravely willing to talk about it.”
How often should you shower?
As reported in a medically reviewed article for VeryWellHealth, showering every other day, or every other third day, is not a bad approach to cleanliness.
On the days you’re not showering, it’s best to wipe yourself down with a washcloth.
