While showering feels refreshing, experts advise older adults to cut back. After age 65, skin becomes thinner, drier, and more sensitive due to reduced collagen, elastin, and natural oils.
Daily hot showers and harsh soaps can strip the skin’s protective oils and disrupt its microbiome, leading to dryness, itching, irritation, and even infections.
Instead, dermatologists recommend showering just 2–3 times a week to maintain hygiene without damaging the skin barrier.
Tips for Skin-Friendly Showers:
- Use warm—not hot—water
- Choose gentle, moisturizing cleansers
- Keep showers under 5 minutes
- Pat skin dry with a soft towel
- Apply a nourishing moisturizer afterward
This routine helps preserve skin health, reduce irritation, and support aging skin’s natural defenses.