The Best Way to Shower for Healthy Skin
By Paul Rothbart
A shower can be a wonderful thing. It is probably the most effective way to clean the entire body and the spray of hot water is soothing to tired muscles. It's a good way to wake up and start a day or to wash away the fatigue and soreness of physical labor. As good as they feel, showers can actually be harmful to healthy skin. Fear not. You don't have to give up showering. By making a few adjustments to your shower routine and following these guidelines, you can still enjoy a cleansing shower while maintaining that healthy glow.
Not Too Often
The frequency of showers will of course depend upon how active you are. Once a day is generally enough, but after a workout or a few hours of intense physical work, a shower is usually necessary. Take enough showers to stay clean and avoid infection, but don't overdo it. If the purpose of a shower is purely relaxation, find an alternative.
Not Too Long
Long periods under running water can dry out the skin and hair. Soap and other cleansers do more damage in a lengthy shower. Dermatologists agree that the shorter the shower, the better. Take just long enough to get thoroughly clean. Keep active, washing and rinsing. Don't spend time just standing under the water. Those with dry skin or dermatitis should shower for no longer than five minutes at a time.
Not Too Hot
Hot showers feel good but do the most damage. Hot water strips away natural oils from the skin and can damage it. Lukewarm water is better, cool water even more so. Some people like the invigorating feel of a cold shower, but this is not necessary. Use a temperature that feels comfortable but won't damage skin. Here's a good tip for those who like the feel of hot water. Take a quick shower under hot water, wetting and washing the body. When it's time to rinse, change the water to a cool temperature and let it run over the hair and body. It will moisture the skin and get the circulation going.
Washing Hair
Hair doesn't need to be washed as often as skin. Every other day works for most people, but the frequency will depend on your type of hair. If you start to develop dandruff, that may be a sign of not washing often enough. Find the optimum frequency and stick to that. It's also important to wash the scalp once a week to prevent the buildup of oils that can cause flaking.
Showers are one of life's little pleasures. In addition to cleaning the body, they can be therapeutic. Just be sure not to damage your skin in the process. Keep these tips in mind and your skin will stay clean and healthy.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fayetteville, N.C.