Derm DMs: Can You Shower Too Much?

Everyone knows this feeling warm shower after a long day of working from home or a daily run, but if you notice that your skin cracking or peeling after a showeryou may be showering too much. Prior to this, we consulted with Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research Dermatology and Skincare.com expert, Joshua Zeichner, MD.to understand what can happen to the appearance of your skin if you shower too often. 

How do you know if you're showering too much?

According to Dr. Zeichner, it's very easy to tell if you're showering too much. “Our head may love a long hot shower, but not our skin,” he says. “If the skin turns red, looks flaky, dull, or feels itchy, external factors, such as excessive showering, may be the cause. According to Dr. Zeichner, You should also consider what type of detergent you are using. A "squeaky clean" feeling often indicates dryness after washing.

Should I take less showers?

If you have dry or sensitive skin, you need to be extra careful when it comes to how often you shower. It's also a good idea to moisturize after a shower. “Moisturizing immediately after bathing provides better skin hydration than delayed hydration,” advises Dr. Zeichner. “I like to advise my patients to apply moisturizer within five minutes of getting out of the shower and keep the bathroom door closed to keep the air moist.”

Keep your skin happy 

When it comes to keeping your skin looking happy, try to avoid repeated, excessively hot, or prolonged showers. Remember that "over-brushing dry skin can do more harm than good," warns Dr. Zeichner. "If you have dry skin, stick to gentle, moisturizing cleansers." We recommend a gentle ceramide-based cleanser, such as from our parent company L'Oréal: try CeraVe Moisturizing Shower Gel, or if you have very sensitive skin, CeraVe Eczema Shower Gel. Our best advice is not to take extra showers and remember to moisturize your skin daily.