Excessive Use of Soap Can Harm Skin Health
Washing Arms, Legs, Back, and Abdomen With Water Alone Is Sufficient
Experts have warned that the habit of scrubbing the entire body with soap lather during showers, which is often done for skin health, can actually damage the skin. Although it may seem like a minor routine, if repeated, it can disrupt the skin barrier and the balance of beneficial bacteria, so caution is advised.
Complicated Shower Routines Burden the Skin
HealthDay News, a U.S. health media outlet, recently cautioned that the "complicated shower routines" spreading on social media can negatively affect skin health. Double cleansing, frequent exfoliation, and the use of strongly scented body washes are being touted as skincare secrets, but in reality, they can weaken the skin's defense functions.
Dermatologists from the University of Iowa College of Medicine and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine also emphasized that "except when removing heavy makeup, double cleansing is unnecessary." For dry or eczema-prone skin, using grainy scrubs or rough loofahs (shower sponges) can increase irritation and should be avoided. Instead, they recommend taking short and simple showers with lukewarm water and fragrance-free cleansers, which is better for both the skin and the environment.
Where Soap Is Truly Needed
Experts consistently mention that the areas where soap is necessary are limited. These include the armpits, groin and genital area, around the anus, under the breasts in women, between the toes, behind the ears, and the navel-areas where sweat and secretions easily accumulate and ventilation is poor.
On the other hand, washing the arms, legs, back, and abdomen with just water is sufficient. These areas have less sebum secretion or primarily release watery sweat from eccrine glands, so harsh cleansing is not needed.
Excessive Cleansing Destroys the Skin Barrier
The stratum corneum on the skin’s surface acts as a barrier against external irritants and helps retain moisture. However, excessive use of surfactants or alkaline soaps can damage the lipids that fill the spaces between skin cells. This increases moisture loss and raises the risk of dryness or inflammation.
Additionally, overusing soap can disrupt the balance of the skin’s protective "skin microbiome." Repeated cleansing with products containing strong antibacterial agents can remove not only harmful germs but also beneficial skin bacteria.
Showering Two to Three Times a Week Is Enough... Moisturizing Is Key
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that unless there is significant contamination, showering two to three times a week is sufficient. In particular, minimizing soap use on the arms and legs, where there are fewer sebaceous glands, can help prevent itching in older adults.
Post-shower care is also important. Right after showering, moisture evaporates easily, leading to excessive dryness. To prevent this, it is recommended to apply moisturizer within three minutes of showering, while the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture-a method known as "occlusive therapy." Using lotion together with oil, rather than oil alone, is advised.
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