1147
Approximately two-thirds of Americans shower daily.
The daily shower tends to start around puberty and becomes lifelong.
The daily shower is more about habit and societal pressure than health.
Showering daily for a number of reasons, including:
concerns about body odor
a morning routine.
Normal, healthy skin maintains a layer of oil and a good bacteria and other microorganisms.
Washing and scrubbing removes these.
Showering may allow the shin to become dry, irritated, or itchy.
The skin barrier may crack and allow bacteria and allergens to breach the skin allowing skin infections and allergic reactions to occur.
Antibacterial soaps can kill off normal bacteria, upsetting the balance of microorganisms on the skin and encourages organisms that are more resistant to antibiotics.
It is known the immune systems needs a certain amount of stimulation by normal microorganisms, dirt, and other environmental exposures in order to create protective antibodies and immune memory.
This reason is why many recommend against daily baths for children.
Frequent baths or showers throughout a lifetime may reduce the ability of the immune system to function appropriately.
Daily showers does not improve health, could cause skin problems or other health issues.
Daily showering wastes a lot of water, and the oils, perfumes, and other additives in shampoos, conditioners, and soaps may cause allergic reactions.
There is no ideal frequency, but showering several times per week is adequate for most people.
Short showers of 3-4 minute duration, with a focus on the armpits and groin may suffice.