Dermatologists push back on over-the-top shower routines: Keep it simple

July 23, 2025 – 4:30 PM

If your social feed is full of 10-step shower routines with double cleansing, exfoliating scrubs, and multiple body oils — you’re not alone. But according to leading dermatologists, all that effort may be doing more harm than good.

Not only can overly complicated shower routines irritate your skin, they can also waste water and hurt the environment.

What’s trending in showers — and why doctors are concerned

TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are packed with influencer shower routines featuring body scrubs, antibacterial soaps, scented oils, and endless products.

But medical experts say this kind of routine isn’t just unnecessary — it can actually damage the skin’s natural barrier.

“I’m kind of appalled by the shower routines,” said Dr. Olga Bunimovich, a dermatologist and assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Nicole Negbenebor, a dermatologic surgeon with University of Iowa Health Care, explains:

“Your skin is one of your body’s most important barriers. Sometimes there can be too much of a good thing.”

The simple shower: What your skin really needs

For most people, showering doesn’t need to be complicated.

A daily shower with lukewarm water, a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleanser, and a moisturizer afterward is enough to keep skin clean and healthy.

Keep your shower short — and skip the hot water. High temperatures strip away your skin’s natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable.

“You want to cleanse, hydrate, and protect — not overdo it,” said Dr. Lisa Akintilo, dermatologist at NYU Langone Health.

What to know about soaps

Not all soaps are created equal. Dermatologists recommend:

• Fragrance-free soaps for sensitive skin
• Avoiding antibacterial soaps for daily use, unless medically necessary

While antibacterial soaps may help some people with specific skin conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa, they’re usually too drying for everyday use.

Stick to gentle cleansers unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

Moisturizers vs. oils: What’s the difference?

There’s a lot of confusion around using body oils after a shower.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Water hydrates your skin
• Moisturizers (lotions or creams) add hydration and nutrients
• Oils are sealants — they lock moisture in, but don’t provide hydration themselves

Dr. Negbenebor recommends applying oil when your skin is still damp, right after stepping out of the shower. That way, it helps retain the moisture your skin absorbed from the water.

Skip the double cleanse — it’s not meant for your body

The idea of “double cleansing” — using an oil-based product first, followed by a water-based cleanser — is popular in facial skincare routines, especially for removing makeup.

But dermatologists say you shouldn’t apply that method to your entire body.

“Not only do I not think that we need to double cleanse our skin … people overuse soap all the time,” said Dr. Bunimovich.

“You should not be soaping up all of your skin, period. Focus on your armpits, groin, and skin folds.”

In short: less soap, less irritation.

Exfoliation: Helpful — but don’t overdo it

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, but doing it every day can cause more harm than good.

If you have sensitive skin, eczema, or acne, exfoliating too often — especially with rough loofahs or scrubs — can lead to rashes and irritation.

Stick to gentle exfoliation once or twice a week.

If you prefer chemical exfoliants, look for lactic acid or glycolic acid, but use them sparingly.

If your skin gets red, itchy, or inflamed after exfoliating, that’s a sign you’re overdoing it.

Shorter showers are better for your skin — and the planet

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), showers account for nearly 17% of indoor water use in American households.

With multiple U.S. states experiencing droughts, shorter showers have become part of public conservation efforts.

And dermatologists agree — shorter showers aren’t just eco-friendly, they’re healthier for your skin.

“Get clean, but don’t strip your skin,” said Dr. Akintilo. “A lukewarm five-minute shower is usually enough.”

Final thoughts

You don’t need a 10-step routine or a cabinet full of products to take good care of your skin.

Dermatologists agree: stick to gentle soap, short lukewarm showers, and moisturize afterward. Save the scrubs and extra steps for an occasional treat — not a daily habit.

Want more practical skincare advice from real experts? Check out our health and wellness section, and don’t forget to share this with someone who might be over-cleansing!