Experts reveal why you shouldn't shower for more than 15 minutes

Updated on July 14, 2023 at 8:53 AM

Did you know that showering for more than 15 minutes not only impacts your skin, but also our planet? Here is what you should know!

Showering for longer than 15 minutes can have dangerous consequences for your health

Beyond its hygienic aspect, the shower is a real moment of relaxation for some. Many of us spend long minutes in the shower, but this can have harmful effects on the skin.

Discover our latest podcast

The effects on your skin, according to dermatologists

Excessive showering can have harmful effects on our bodies and organisms. In fact, according to American dermatologist Brandon Mitchell, 'most people wash too much and for too long.'

In short, showering for too long strips the skin of its natural oils, resulting in skin irritation and lesions that make it easier for bacteria to enter the body. In other words, spending too much time in the shower upsets the skin's natural defense mechanisms.For this reason, professionals recommend a maximum shower time of 15 minutes.

In an article published by the media outlet Eat This, expert Anna Chacon explains that showering for over 15 minutes exposes you to risks of skin infections.

I think a good period of time [in the shower] would be anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes,

It's just enough time to rinse off and shampoo/condition your hair, as well as apply soap. Over 15 minutes—or when your hands turn wrinkly—may be too much time. Or when you notice the water starts to turn cold… its time.

thumbnail — You should shower for less than 15 minutes to protect your skin Seth Doyle / Unsplash

Top tips to protect your skin in the shower

If you want to limit the problems caused by showering for too long, we've got a few tips for you. Firstly, avoid showers that are too hot. Although very pleasant, they can dry out your skin and even put you at risk of cardiovascular problems.

Next, you can use a lipid-replenishing bath additive or a simple moisturizing cream to help your skin fight dryness.

Finally, don't hesitate to install a showerhead with an anti-scale filter. Limescale is known to be quite aggressive on the skin, so the filter helps reduce its concentration.

This article has been translated from Oh!MyMag FR.

Sources used:

Eat This: Never Take a Shower That's This Long, Say Doctors

UAE: LES EFFETS DE L’EAU CALCAIRE SUR LA PEAU