Beware Of Showering Too Often This Summer

It's no secret that all of that sun, chlorine, and saltwater we're exposed to during the summer months can be major contributors to dry skin problems, but is showering too often another thing that can ruin our skin? While cleanliness is obviously important, as it turns out, over showering can actually do more harm than good.

In fact, according to Essence, dermatologists actually recommend only showering every two to three days for 10 minutes in lukewarm water. Additionally, HowStuffWorks points out that the skin needs time to repair and produce new oils after a shower and because of that, over showering and over scrubbing can actually damage the skin. Elite Daily author Ashley Fern further proves that point by saying, "The top layer is held together by lipids, aka fatty compounds, that help maintain moisture, so any time you shower and scrub, you are breaking this layer apart."

If you live an active lifestyle, especially in the summer, it may be tough to avoid a daily shower, but perhaps consider lukewarm water instead of hot water and limit yourself to 10 minutes or less. I do think that there is something to be said for only showering when it's necessary.

To help you get through the shower-free days, here are a few products you might want to investigate:

1. Dry Shampoo

Klorane Dry Shampoo, $20 kloraneusa.com

While some dry shampoos can feel a little gritty, Klorane's formula soaks up oil without leaving much residue. And, it even comes in different shades for girls with dark hair!

2. Antiperspirant

SweatBlock Antiperspirant, $17.99, sweatblock.com

A tried and true classic for preventing odor in between rinses.

3. Facial Cleansing Wipes

Clinique Take The Day Off Facial Cleaning Wipes, $14.00, sephora.com

If you usually wash your face in the shower, these wipes are a great alternative that you can use outside of the shower. They remove makeup and cleanse all at once.

4. Body Wipes

Walgreens Personal Cleansing Wipes, $7.29, walgreens.com

If you really want to skip a shower, body wipes may be a good alternative. These hypoallergenic wipes soothe and freshen the skin without drying it out.

5. Body Spray

Victoria's Secret Rush Fragrance Mist, victoriassecret.com, $18.00

If you're not feeling fresh enough after using body wipes and you want to smell shower fresh, consider using a body spray to add some fragrance!

Whether you choose to shower today — or not — I wish you luck!

Images: Pixabay; Courtesy Brands (5)