In a world where social media glorifies multi-step shower rituals packed with scrubs, oils, and double cleansers, it’s easy to think your daily rinse needs to be an elaborate affair. But dermatologists are urging a return to basics, not only for the sake of your skin, but for the environment too.

According to dermatologists, the multistep processes that have inspired people to spend endless amounts of time sudsing up can actually harm your skin and they agree that it's mostly unnecessary.

dermatologists explain that your skin is one of the body’s most important barriers. She emphasised that since it protects you from the elements, it deserves proper care, and sometimes, there can be too much of a good thing.

The basics of a healthy shower routine

  • A shower is a relatively simple routine that usually doesn’t require 10 steps or a plethora of products.
  • A daily shower with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free hypoallergenic cleanser, followed by hydrating lotion or oil afterward, is generally sufficient.
  • It’s best not to stay in the shower too long or use water that is too hot, as it can strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to maintain its barrier, leaving it prone to dryness and irritation.

Choose the right soap

When it comes to soaps, it’s advisable to use one formulated for sensitive skin. While antibacterial soaps are popular, experts noted that they tend to dry out the skin excessively for everyday use. However, such soaps can be beneficial for people with hidradenitis suppurativa, an autoimmune skin condition that causes painful boils and abscesses.

Doctors mentioned that oils can be helpful for the skin once you’re damp and out of the shower. But it’s important to understand that oil is not a moisturiser — it acts as a sealant. The water hydrates your skin, and the oil helps lock in that moisture.

Do you really need to double cleanse and exfoliate?

Some influencers suggest that a skincare routine isn't complete without exfoliation and the practice of double cleansing.

Double cleansing is typically reserved for facial skincare routines, especially when wearing makeup, and involves using an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and excess oil, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining residue.

Experts stated that this practice doesn’t need to be applied to the entire body. They say that not only is full-body double cleansing unnecessary, but that people tend to overuse soap in general. They recommended not soaping up all of your skin, but instead focusing on the privates and skin folds.

The risks of over-exfoliating

Another product that can dry out your skin is antibacterial soap. While there are many claims suggesting it’s essential for a regular body care routine, experts clarified that these soaps often contain the same ingredients as regular soaps and are too drying for daily use. They do, however, serve a purpose for those with specific conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa.

Exfoliation is intended to remove dead skin cells and can benefit the skin, according to experts. However, exfoliating daily may lead to several problems, particularly for those with dry skin or conditions such as eczema or acne.

Manual exfoliation, which involves using a body scrub or a coarse loofah, should be done sparingly to avoid irritation.

If rashes appear on your skin following exfoliation, it might be a sign that you’re overdoing it.

Dermatologists recommended a gentler alternative in the form of exfoliating products containing lactic or glycolic acid, though these should not be used too frequently.

The environmental impact of your shower routine

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, showers account for nearly 17% of Americans’ indoor water usage.

Several states experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions have called for water conservation measures this year, including shorter showers.

If your aim is to get clean while maintaining your skin’s natural oils, then a lukewarm shower that allows you enough time to clean your body is usually all you need.