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Showers have come a long way since the ancient Greeks first decided to concoct devices that rained water down all over their bodies. Today, we have specialized shower heads, delicate temperature control, and much cleaner water, for example.
Still, some people seem to have a problem with taking a frequent shower. This unhealthy habit can not only lead to some smelly issues, but science suggests there’s a whole host of other reasons to rinse yourself on the regular.
RELATED:
You don’t have to shower every day, but experts warn you shouldn’t go too long without one either
Image credits: Yaroslav Shuraev / Pexels (not the actual photo)
Based on the available evidence, history tells us humans likely began washing themselves as early as the Stone Age, with archaeological findings indicating that people in the prehistoric era bathed near natural springs and used water for cleaning.
However, the practice of regular bathing and the development of sophisticated hygiene systems became more prominent in civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization and Ancient Greece during the Bronze Age, around 5,000 years ago.
These days, there’s no end to the soaps, shampoos, and specialized cleansers available to us, yet there are still people who tend to neglect their personal hygiene. While experts argue that showering every day isn’t necessary, but more of a social norm, dermatologists and doctors agree that skipping a regular shower or bath can lead to many negative results for your health.
Dermatitis Neglecta And Fungal Infections
According to the Healthy website, infrequent washing can result in dermatitis neglecta, a condition characterized by patches of dark, scaly skin caused by the accumulation of sweat, oils, and dead skin cells. What’s more, areas like the feet and groin are particularly susceptible to fungal infections (such as athlete’s foot) when not cleaned regularly.
Aggravating Pre-Existing Skin Conditions
People with pre-existing skin conditions, such as eczema, may experience worsening symptoms due to the buildup of sweat and bacteria. On the other hand, showering too regularly could aggravate dry skin because it strips away natural oils, so it’s best to find the balance that works for you – a dermatologist can always step in if the problem is severe.
Image credits: Sarah Chai / Pexels (not the actual photo)
Scalp Problems
According to the Bustle website, neglecting hair washing can lead to scalp problems, including dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, resulting in itchiness, flakiness, and no end of irritation. It really makes sense then to wash up from head to toe, then.
Decreased Self-Esteem
The Hosh Yoga website tells us that it’s not just what’s inside that counts – poor hygiene can lead to social isolation, embarrassment, and decreased self-esteem due to concerns about body odor and appearance, so don’t be shy to soak up some suds more often than not.
Clogged Pores And Acne Flare Ups
Shower Addict says that, without regular cleansing, dead skin cells can build up, leading to a dull complexion, clogged pores, and conditions such as acne, folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles), and even skin infections.
Image credits: MART PRODUCTION / Pexels (not the actual photo)
Mental Health Issues
According to Resto NYC, neglecting personal hygiene can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety, further diminishing the motivation to maintain cleanliness, and potentially exacerbating existing mental health issues.
Increased Risk Of Skin Infections
The Shower Pro Tips website tells us that neglecting regular showers can lead to the accumulation of sweat, dirt, dead skin cells, and bacteria on the skin, increasing the risk of unpleasant skin infections like dermatitis.
Potential For Systemic Infections
Severe skin infections from poor hygiene can, in rare cases, spread deeper into the body, leading to more serious health issues. According to the Healthline website, people with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of skin infections and complications from skin infections.
Unpleasant Body Odor
Last (but certainly not least), is the fact that skipping your regular shower will make you stink. While sweat itself doesn’t have much of a smell, when it mixes with the natural bacteria on your skin, the gas that the bacteria produces will make you reek, which could lead to some awkward situations.
Image credits: Polina Zimmerman / Pexels (not the actual photo)
Maintaining regular personal hygiene through consistent showering is essential to prevent these negative outcomes and promote overall health and well-being. So, ask yourself, how many days has it been since you had a good, soapy rinse? Hopefully not long enough to smell the answer!
While we know showering is key, it seems nobody can agree on a set shower schedule, at least not these netizens
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What do you think ?
Joanne Wright 9 months ago
I actually find if I don't shower every day, my body becomes more accustomed to natural oils, and my skin isn't as dry as if I shower every day.
Clarissa 9 months ago
We go camping often and don't shower for many days. Other than being smelly and dirty no.ill effects.
Peter Parker 9 months ago
Right, that article is a bunch of baloney. 100 years ago, people showered a lot less and they survived..
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Ace 9 months ago
I'm not sure at what point in history it became commonplace to shower daily. Certainly when I was growing up in the UK it was common practice to take a bath once a week - we didn't have a shower, but every day just seems... strange. I don't have any skin or scalp issues, and judicious use of anti-perspirant keeps me from smelling, so once every three or four days is fine. I do have a thing in my bathroom called a sink, which dispenses hot and cold running water, washing for the use of, so any bits that actually get dirty, like greasy hands from working, dirty nether bits from splashback, sex or just getting too sweaty, are easily addressed in a matter of seconds. These changes mentioned here are more a reaction to showering too frequently than anything else, so of course you'll notice when you don't do it so often, Once you get used to it I'm sure you'll find that many of the 'problems' mentioned simply disappear.
Joanne Wright 9 months ago
I actually find if I don't shower every day, my body becomes more accustomed to natural oils, and my skin isn't as dry as if I shower every day.
Clarissa 9 months ago
We go camping often and don't shower for many days. Other than being smelly and dirty no.ill effects.
Peter Parker 9 months ago
Right, that article is a bunch of baloney. 100 years ago, people showered a lot less and they survived..
Load More Replies... Ace 9 months ago
I'm not sure at what point in history it became commonplace to shower daily. Certainly when I was growing up in the UK it was common practice to take a bath once a week - we didn't have a shower, but every day just seems... strange. I don't have any skin or scalp issues, and judicious use of anti-perspirant keeps me from smelling, so once every three or four days is fine. I do have a thing in my bathroom called a sink, which dispenses hot and cold running water, washing for the use of, so any bits that actually get dirty, like greasy hands from working, dirty nether bits from splashback, sex or just getting too sweaty, are easily addressed in a matter of seconds. These changes mentioned here are more a reaction to showering too frequently than anything else, so of course you'll notice when you don't do it so often, Once you get used to it I'm sure you'll find that many of the 'problems' mentioned simply disappear.
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