Daily washing damages your skin and immune system, say experts
Dermatologist Sandra Skotnicki, from Yale School of Medicine, enlightened about a protective layer of our skin called the hydrolipid barrier, that gets removed during bathing.
3:46 PM EST, January 12, 2024
This layer is made up of natural oils and substances secreted by the skin, which safeguard the body from bacteria, viruses, and other potentially damaging elements.
Very frequent or prolonged bathing can lead not just to an overall reduction in our body’s protection, but also to skin dryness, causing irritation, damage, excessive flaking, and itching.
It's increasingly highlighted by scientists that it's good for our bodies to have contact with dirt and microorganisms. Such varied exposure helps "educate" our immune system, teaching it how to respond appropriately.
How frequently should we wash?
Of course, this doesn’t imply we should completely stop washing. Certain body parts like armpits, feet, and intimate areas, due to their higher tendency to accumulate fungi, bacteria, and release unpleasant odors, need daily washing with soap, gel, or any other suitable product.
We are referring to regions like the armpits, feet, and intimate areas. The rest of the body can be simply rinsed with water. The frequency of body washing depends on several factors - skin type, level of physical activity, weight, body shape (skin folds attract bacteria) and the nature of daily work.
However, scientists assert that typically, bathing every 2-3 days is acceptable, even if you engage in regular moderate-intensity physical activities.
The timing (morning or evening) for bathing is less important, although evening baths are suggested to avoid carrying the day's dirt and sweat to bed. Observing how your body reacts and customizing your hygiene routine to suit your needs is crucial.
