Controversy over the necessity of a comprehensive 'whole-body shower' routine: Influencers endorse the practice, while experts express skepticism
In recent times, the "everything shower" trend has taken social media by storm, with influencers advocating for lengthy, multistep routines that encompass various personal hygiene and beauty practices. From shaving and exfoliating to shampooing, using multiple cleansers, and following up with post-shower treatments like moisturizers and perfumes, the everything shower promises a comprehensive self-care experience [1][4].
However, health experts suggest that simpler, quicker showers can be just as effective. A balanced approach to hygiene practices is recommended, as outlined below:
- **Shampooing and Conditioning**: Use gentle products suitable for your hair type to maintain a clean and nourished scalp. - **Cleansing**: Opt for a mild body wash to clean the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. - **Exfoliating**: Use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells, but be mindful not to over-exfoliate as it may lead to skin irritation [1]. - **Shaving**: Use a sharp razor and shaving cream for smooth results, ensuring to rinse the razor blade frequently to prevent build-up of hair and soap. - **Moisturizing**: Apply a moisturizer after the shower to hydrate the skin and lock in moisture.
While the allure of the everything shower may be tempting, it's crucial to consider its potential risks.
1. **Water Conservation**: The trend can lead to excessive water usage, which is a concern for water conservation [1]. Making the switch to more water-efficient showerheads with the EPA's certified WaterSense label could save a family of four up to 50,000 gallons of water per year [9]. Turning off the faucet to shave, shampoo, and lather soap can also help conserve water during a shower.
2. **Skin Irritation**: Over-exfoliation or using too many products can irritate the skin, leading to conditions like acne or eczema [1]. Using dozens of products in the shower can create opportunities for allergic or irritating reactions. A fragrance-free, gentle body cleanser scrubbed into the armpits and groin area could do the trick.
3. **Mental and Physical Stress**: The time-consuming nature of these routines can be stressful, both mentally and physically [1][3]. Taking shorter showers and focusing on essential steps can help reduce this stress.
4. **Economic Impact**: Purchasing a wide range of products can be costly and may not be sustainable for everyone [1]. Sticking to a few essential products can help save money and promote a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
In conclusion, while the everything shower trend offers a promise of comprehensive self-care, it's essential to balance these practices with simplicity and sustainability. By focusing on essential steps and being mindful of water usage and product choices, you can maintain good hygiene while also conserving resources and protecting your skin.
References: [1] https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-everything-shower-is-it-good-for-you [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6233896/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4658378/ [4] https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/everything-shower [9] https://www.epa.gov/watersense/showerheads-save-water-and-money
- Adopting a balanced health-and-wellness routine, as suggested by experts, involves using gentle shampoo and conditioner, a mild body wash, and occasional exfoliating, while the everything shower trend might lead to environmental-science issues like water-conservation problems, especially with the use of water-inefficient showerheads.
- While the everything shower could potentially improve one's lifestyle by offering a comprehensive self-care experience, it may also increase the risk of skin irritation from over-exfoliation or using too many products, potentially causing conditions like acne or eczema.
- Shorter, simpler showers, as recommended by health experts, could help reduce mental and physical stress associated with the time-consuming nature of extensive beauty routines, making the routine more manageable and less demanding on one's resources.
- Opting for a few essential products, as opposed to a wide range, can help save money, promote a more sustainable fashion-and-beauty routine, and contribute to a greener environmental-science and climate-change conscious lifestyle.
