The Everyday Health article How Often Should You Shower? takes a closer look at a common hygiene question and explains that the answer depends on individual lifestyle, skin type, and age. Featuring expert insight from Dr. Courtney Gwinn, Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon and Double Board-Certified Dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Surgery, the article emphasizes that shower frequency should be personalized rather than based on a universal daily standard.
According to Dr. Gwinn, cleansing sweat-prone areas such as the underarms, groin, and feet plays a critical role in maintaining skin health. Regular washing of these areas helps reduce body odor and lowers the risk of folliculitis (inflamed or infected hair follicles) and body breakouts. Sweat and bacteria tend to accumulate in these regions, especially after exercise or prolonged activity, making targeted cleansing essential for preventing irritation and infection.
The article also highlights that daily showers are particularly important for individuals in certain professions. Those working in healthcare, pet care, landscaping, or other hands-on fields are often exposed to dirt, allergens, and pathogens. In these cases, Dr. Gwinn notes that daily showering helps remove environmental contaminants and supports overall skin hygiene. For active individuals or those living in warmer climates, or during the summer months in the Greater Spokane and Inland Northwest area, more frequent cleansing may also be beneficial.
However, the article stresses that showering every day is not necessary for everyone. In fact, some individuals may benefit from bathing less frequently. Dr. Gwinn explains that older adults and those with more fragile skin often require a gentler approach. Because aging skin tends to be thinner and more prone to dryness and irritation, reducing shower frequency can help preserve natural oils and maintain the skin’s protective barrier.
“Patients older than 60, those on statins, and individuals with a compromised skin barrier benefit from showering less often,” she explains. “For these patients, I recommend showering every other day.”
Another common mistake discussed in the article is over-exfoliation. While many people believe scrubbing with loofahs or rough washcloths enhances cleanliness, Dr. Gwinn advises against aggressive physical exfoliation for routine cleansing. She notes that it “can increase existing inflammation and acne.” Excessive scrubbing may damage the skin barrier, leading to redness, irritation, and worsening of certain skin conditions. Instead, gentle cleansers and soft washing techniques are recommended to maintain healthy skin.
Ultimately, the article reinforces that the ideal shower routine depends on factors such as occupation, age, medications, climate, and individual skin health. Rather than adhering to a rigid daily shower rule, readers are encouraged to assess their specific needs and adjust accordingly.
Dr. Gwinn sees patients at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Surgery’s Coeur d’Alene and Spokane Valley locations, providing expert Dermatologic care tailored to each individual’s skin type and lifestyle. Her insights in this article underscore the importance of a balanced approach to hygiene – one that protects both cleanliness and long-term skin health.
To make an appointment with Dr. Gwinn or one of our other Providers at our locations in Coeur d’Alene, Spokane North, Spokane Valley, or South Hill, you can use our online scheduling.
About Advanced Dermatology & Skin Surgery
Our expert Board-Certified Dermatologists, Certified Physician Assistants, Registered Nurse Practitioners, and Cosmetic Specialists specialize in Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology and are ready to answer any questions you may have. Visit any of our Coeur d’Alene, Spokane North, Spokane Valley, and South Hill locations.