You would think that taking a shower is a simple affair. Get in the water, lather up, rinse, and repeat. It might surprise you to know that there is a proper and improper way to cleanse when you are taking a shower.
Using Dry Soap
Soap cleans your body, but it can also dry out your skin. Many people are using antibacterial deodorant soaps to help banish germs, but if yours doesn’t contain a moisturizing agent, you may turn into a raisin just from showering alone. Look for bar soaps that contain stearic acid or those that are advertised as being moisturizing.
Start Conditioning Your Scalp
There is a lot of misinformation about proper hair washing, and keeping conditioner off of your scalp is one of those myths. It is important to hydrate from the root to the tip, and conditioning your scalp also nourishes the skin.
Scrubbing the Scalp With Your Nails
One of the best feelings while washing your hair is scrubbing your scalp, but if you are doing it with your fingernails, you are actually harming your skin. The skin of your scalp is more sensitive than you may realize, and too much scratching can cause flaking and scars. Work up a good lather with your fingertips instead and don’t rub your wet strands aggressively if you want to avoid split ends.
Scrubbing Your Body
Loofahs and scrubs are a great way to exfoliate your skin, but most people use them too aggressively. Hard scrubbing can remove the natural protective barrier of your skin. Instead, use a soft washcloth and slide it gently over your body with a thick lather to remove dirt and germs. If you do use a scrubber or loofah, make sure to avoid pressing too hard and change them once a month to ensure skin health.
Taking Long, Hot Showers
As good as scalding hot showers may feel, especially in the winter, it is important to keep in mind the hot waters effect on your skin. Hot lengthy showers strip lipids and natural oils from your skin that usually keep it hydrated. Make sure to use lotion while your skin is slightly damp to lock in and replace lost oils.
Applying Lotion Too Late
Many people wait until they are completely dry before putting on lotion. The best time to do it, however, is while your skin is still damp. This allows you to reintroduce moisture lost during your shower back into your skin.
Not Rinsing Properly
Any products you use such as soap, shampoo, and condition need to be completely rinsed off before you leave the shower. Leaving products on your skin can cause clogged pores and other irritations. After your rinse the next step is drying off. You should make sure to dry your hair with care to avoid dry, unruly hair.
