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Dr. Mitch: How often should you shower?

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January 31, 2025

TLDR: Dr. Mitch Shulman appears every weekday morning at 7:50 on The Andrew Carter Morning Show.

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In a recent episode of The Andrew Carter Morning Show, Dr. Mitch Shulman discussed a common question that many people ponder: How often should you shower? This episode provides valuable insights into the hygiene practices surrounding showering and challenges some conventional beliefs regarding personal cleanliness.

Understanding the Purpose of Showering

Dr. Mitch highlights that while there are clear hygiene reasons for washing—such as cleaning your hands after using the bathroom or before meals—showering may not need to be as frequent as many mistakenly believe.

Key Reasons Why We Shower:

  • Hygiene: To remove dirt, bacteria, and unpleasant odors from our skin.
  • Ritual: Many people shower to feel fresh and invigorated to start their day. This mental boost is just as important as physical cleanliness.

The Frequency Dilemma

Dr. Mitch refers to a professor from Yale who argued that our approach to showering often overemphasizes cleanliness without fully understanding our skin's needs. In essence:

  • Hygienic Necessity vs. Ritual: The episode suggests that daily showers might not be medically necessary for most people.
  • Skin Health Considerations: Especially during winter months when air is dry, over-showering can lead to skin issues. It strips the body of natural oils, potentially worsening conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Expert Recommendations:

  • Showering Frequency: Dr. Mitch generally advocates for showering only once or twice a week for most individuals, depending on activity levels.
  • Gentler Washing Practices: Opt for shorter, cooler showers to preserve skin moisture.

Skin Care Tips Post-Shower

To maintain skin health, Dr. Mitch advises the following practices:

  • Moisturization: After showering, apply a non-irritating, preferably unscented moisturizer to help your skin retain moisture and prevent dryness.
  • Protect Exposed Skin: Use hand and face moisturizers to protect against dry air, especially during wintertime.

Personal Rituals and Their Importance

The ritual of showering can have profound psychological impacts, contributing to a sense of well-being and readiness to face the day. For many:

  • Starting the Day Right: A morning shower can help individuals feel awake and refreshed, contributing positively to daily activities.
  • Balancing Ritual with Health: Understanding the balance between the ritualistic aspect of showering and genuine hygiene needs can lead to better health and skin outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Mitch concludes by reinforcing the idea that showering frequency should be based on individual needs and circumstances rather than societal norms. While maintaining personal hygiene is crucial, overemphasizing daily showers may not be beneficial, especially for skin health.

Summary of Recommendations:

  • Shower Frequency: Consider 1-2 times per week for most; adapt based on activity level.
  • Moisturization: Always apply moisturizer post-shower to maintain skin hydration.
  • Understand Your Body's Needs: Reflect on your hygiene practices and their impact on both health and well-being.

By contextualizing showering as both a hygienic and psychological practice, Dr. Mitch encourages listeners to rethink their routines and consider what works best for their skin and mental state. The episode ultimately invites the audience to listen to their bodies and make informed decisions about hygiene.

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