MUST READ: Stop Bathing! Medical Science

It is common believe that the more we shower, the cleaner 

we get. That may be the case, but little did we know that frequent bathing, does way beyond “just cleaning”, but it strips the body of natural oils, and weakens the immune system. We vigorously lather up our bodies with soap, to kill any germs lingering on our skin, but rinsing off everyday, could lead to more bacteria than we started with.

How Then Often Should We Actually Shower?

Well, it depends. Those who work strenuous jobs, live in hot, humid areas, or exercise, should shower daily. It is not about body odour, but the perspiration left behind on our skin, that provides the breeding ground for bacteria to grow. Excess oil can clog the pores, leading to facial and body acne, or acne-like red bumps, and pustules.

However, regular bathing can be harmful to the body, if we do not perspire much. It dries the skin, which can open gaps for infection-causing germs to slip through. Frequent bathing while our skin is already dry, may increase the odds of developing a weaker immune system, because it strips the skin of natural oils, while disrupting the skin’s immune system-supporting bacteria.

There is no clear-cut difference between a shower or bath, though baths are more gentle for people who have skin conditions, like dermatitis, and eczema.

“People think they are showering for hygiene, or to be cleaner, but bacteriologically, that is not the case.” Dr. Elaine Larson, an Infectious Disease Expert at the Columbia University School of Nursing said.

Larson, has found out that the antibacterial soaps, and cleaning products we use in our homes, are not any better than plain old soaps, at lowering the risk for infectious diseases. Moreover, scrubbing and exfoliating, does not do much to our skin

So, What Is The Ideal Shower Frequency?

Doctors say when it comes to our health, once or twice a week is recommended. However, we can shower daily, and not lather our whole bodies. Focusing on areas that produce pungent smells, like our pits, butts, and genitals, is a better alternative for those who like to shower more frequently.

Also, washing our hands and clothes, will help remove the dead skin cells and grime, our bodies accumulate, without us suffering any ill health effects.

However, the chemistry of each person’s skin is different, including our scalp; so showering everyday may not be as dangerous to some, as it is to others. Relatively speaking, if you are in good health, skipping a shower every once in a while, will not do any harm.

https://www.post-nigeria.com/must-read-why-you-should-stop-bathing/