We all have our shower routines. We get in, wash our hair, use body wash, exfoliate, and shave. Our shower rituals have become second-nature to us. However, the habits you’ve formed could be harming you!
Here’s what you’re doing wrong in the shower and how you can fix it.
1. Showering in Hot Water
I love a hot shower, especially on a cold day. However, even though steamy showers keep you warm, they also damage your hair and skin. Hot water causes your hair to become brittle, and it strips your skin of natural oils, which results in dry skin! Aim for lukewarm showers. You’ll still be plenty warm, but your hair and skin will be grateful. Also, if you dye your hair, you’ll want to take cold showers because scalding showers will dull your hair colour.
2. Using Old Razors
You may have a favourite razor that you can’t give up, but if it’s a month old, please throw it in the garbage! Razor blades can easily become dull and rusty, and the bacteria lurking there may infect you. So, make sure you change your razor every month. Your skin will thank you!
3. Holding on to Products
You know that body wash that’s been sitting in your shower for five years? It’s time to throw that stuff out. Bacteria love to shack up in expired products, so next time you take a shower, go through every body wash and decorative soap you own. Open products are good for one year, and unopened products are good for 2-3 years – if they’ve been in your shower any longer, toss them.
4. Re-using Washcloths
You shouldn’t use the same washcloth two days in a row. As you reuse washcloths, they collect bacteria, fungus, and mold. Throw those dirty cloths in the washing machine after each use. If you think one-use washcloths are a lot of work, though, scrub up with your hands and a foaming face wash! It’ll have the same effect as a clean washcloth does… with less of a time commitment.
5. Showering too Often
Showering every day creates dry hair and skin. If your hair looks dirty a few hours after you’ve washed it, the natural oils are gone, which means that you’re showering too much. Showering only a few times per week helps retrain your hair and skin. It will take a few days to get the results you’re looking for, but in the end, your hair and skin will glow.
6. Storing Your Loofah in the Shower
If your loofah is currently sitting in your shower, you need to throw it out. I know it makes sense to leave it in there, but trust me, once you know what’s really happening, you’ll want a new one. Bacteria grows in hot and steamy environments, like your fresh-from-the-shower loofah. Make sure your loofah is dry between use, so you don’t get an infection. Also, bleach it regularly to kill potential bacteria.
Who knew that showering came with so many unwritten rules? Keep these in mind while you’re showering this week because trust me; you’ll want to make these changes!
