A skin expert has revealed how the UK’s showering habits aren’t scrubbing up, from completely missing parts of the body, such as ears, toes, and legs – to using too much product. Dermatologist, Dr Alia Ahmed, has recommended 10 showering habits for better skin health and appearance – including thoroughly washing off all products, and avoiding those with irritating ingredients like alcohol, as well as choosing warm, rather than hot water.
It follows research into 2,000 adults, which revealed 56 percent prefer hot or “boiling” showers, with 70 percent cranking up the heat at this time of year.
But the dermatologist explained that, although it can be tempting to turn up the temperature when cold, it can also be irritating, and exacerbate already dry and itchy skin.
Dr Ahmed, who has teamed up with Dove to launch its new collection of body washes, including their Deeply Nourishing Body Wash, said: “Using hot water causes dilation of blood vessels, as the skin wants to cool down, which promotes inflammation and itch.
“Shorter showers are better, as the skin pays for the indulgence of a longer shower, especially in hard water areas – I recommend five minutes where possible.
“Repeated exposure to hard water can cause build-up on the skin, which can lead to dryness and irritation through skin barrier dysfunction.”
According to the study, adults are spending twice as long under the water as they should be, at an average of 10 minutes – with 41 percent saying they’d go for longer if they had the time.
It also emerged one in 10 always double cleanse with body wash, rather than just once – with 85 percent liking the “squeaky clean” feeling when they get out of the shower.
To experience this, 52 percent make sure the product lathers up nicely, and 35 percent use a sponge or flannel to access the “hard to reach” areas.
But Dr Ahmed added: “There is no definite need to double-cleanse after a shower. The squeaky-clean feeling, although desired by many because it feels more “hygienic”, is not necessary for your skin to be clean, and could be a sign the products you’re using are actually drying your skin.
“Lather doesn’t mean cleaner skin, and hands are more effective than flannels, which can pick up a lot of germs if not washed regularly.”
It also emerged 56 percent of adults polled, via OnePoll, experience dry skin after standing under the water – although 35 percent are unlikely to moisturise.
Dr Alia Ahmed suggests looking for a moisture-boosting body wash, adding a cool blast of water at the end to smooth hair cuticles, and tailoring your product choices to your skin and hair type.