Taking a shower every day dries out the skin
Taking showers is one of the daily steps that ensure good hygiene. While they help remove dirt and dead skin cells, or reduce the risk of skin infections, daily showers can dry out the skin.
Indeed, a Spanish study published in 2022 in the journal MDPI showed that exposure to hot water greatly increases transepidermal water loss (the skin's natural water), and changes the pH of the skin, making it drier and irritable.
The skin can also become dry depending on the type of soap used or the way you scrub in the shower. Having dry skin can lead to health problems, even more so in older people.
The effects of dry skin
According to experts from the Harvard Medical School,aging has a significant impact on the skin. In fact, the dermis and epidermis become thinner. The skin loses its elasticity and becomes naturally drier, in particular because of the weakening of the skin barrier and the reduction in the production of natural lipids such as sebum.
Showering every day can therefore further accentuate this dryness. This allows microbes, allergens and irritants to enter the skin more easily, increasing the risk of infections or skin reactions.
Take a shower every other day
But then how can you avoid drying out the skin, especially in the elderly? A study cited by the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) provided part of the answer.
In fact, this study explains that the best shower frequency is to take one every two days. According to the Le Coudrier website, this rhythm protects the skin surface and limits fatigue linked to hygiene care.
Experts recommend washing with lukewarm water and using a mild or rich soap. In addition, the time spent in the shower should be short with friction limited as much as possible and the application of a moisturizing cream to the legs, arms and feet is strongly recommended to avoid having dry skin.
It is also possible to use cleansing wipes daily, to apply to areas such as the face, armpits or genitals.
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