Showering is one of our most ingrained daily routines. For some, it’s essential every morning to start the day right. For others, it remains a less frequent ritual, focused on basic hygiene. But how often should we actually shower?

The Body and Skin’s Needs

The skin isn’t just a physical barrier; it’s also a living organ that produces sebum to protect itself and maintain hydration.

Washing too often, especially with hot water and harsh soaps, can:

dry out the skin,

weaken the skin barrier,

promote irritation and itching.

Conversely, infrequent hygiene can lead to an accumulation of bacteria, sweat, and body odor.

The Recommended Frequency

Dermatologists agree that a daily shower isn’t necessary for most people. The ideal frequency depends on several factors:

Physical activity: After exercise, a shower is recommended to remove sweat and prevent irritation.

Climate: In summer, in hot and humid regions, showering may be more frequent. In winter, washing too often can further dry out the skin.

Skin type: Dry or sensitive skin does not tolerate daily showers well. Oily or acne-prone skin may benefit from more frequent washing. As a general rule, a shower every other day is sufficient to maintain good hygiene, supplemented by daily washing of key areas (face, underarms, intimate areas, hands, feet).

The Right Compromise

Rather than focusing solely on frequency, it’s essential to prioritize the quality of your shower:

opt for lukewarm water rather than hot water,

use gentle cleansers suited to your skin type, and

moisturize your skin after showering.

And what about the planet?

Reducing the frequency or duration of showers is also an eco-friendly choice. A quick shower uses an average of 60 liters of water, compared to 150 to 200 liters for a bath. Slightly slowing down your showers helps preserve your health… and natural resources.