Dermatologists worldwide are warning that daily showers can damage your skin more than help it

Dermatologists worldwide are warning that daily showers can damage your skin more than help it.

Our skin naturally produces oils and hosts beneficial bacteria that protect against dryness, infections, and inflammation. When we shower too often — especially with hot water and strong soaps — we strip away these defenses, leaving the skin vulnerable.

A study from Harvard Medical School shows that people who shower every 2–3 days often have healthier, more resilient skin than those who shower daily. The skin microbiome, similar to the gut microbiome, thrives when it’s not constantly disrupted.

Dermatologists recommend lukewarm showers, mild cleansers, and immediate moisturizing afterward.
Of course, exceptions exist: athletes, people in hot climates, or those exposed to pollutants may need daily showers.
But for many, especially in cooler climates, showering less frequently maintains skin health while conserving water. Interestingly, many indigenous cultures have practiced low-frequency bathing for centuries, relying on natural oils and herbal scrubs, and often show fewer cases of eczema or dermatitis.

In short: good hygiene is essential, but over-cleaning can be just as harmful as not cleaning enough.