“Taking a shower” has become an essential daily hygiene routine for most modern people, but experts point out that many people might not be following the correct order. Therefore, experts provide guidance on the proper showering sequence and cleaning actions to enhance body cleanliness and avoid dirt and detergent residue on the skin.
Showering has many benefits for the body, including removing dirt, sweat, and dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, as well as reducing bacteria and virus levels, thus lowering the risk of infection. Additionally, taking a shower can help alleviate stress and improve overall mental health.
However, experts at the UK shower gel company “Original Source” have found that nearly 80% of people are confused about the showering sequence. The correct order is to wet the hair first, then use shampoo to clean the scalp, and finally apply conditioner to care for the hair. Experts emphasize that washing the body only after addressing hair concerns can prevent hair care products from leaving residues on the skin, potentially causing skin damage.
The company surveyed 2,000 British individuals about their showering habits. The results showed that 44% of Britons first use shower gel to clean their bodies, followed by shampoo and conditioner; 7% of people start with shower gel, then conditioner, and finally shampoo.
Only 22% of individuals choose to apply shampoo, shower gel, and conditioner in that sequence, 8% start with conditioner, followed by shampoo and then shower gel, and 5% begin with conditioner, then shower gel, and finally shampoo.
Seemingly minor errors in the order can impact the cleaning effectiveness. The company’s experts explain, “Washing the hair first can remove residue and oils, preventing shampoo from mixing with hair care products during application. Otherwise, various cleaning products could potentially remain on the skin and cause irritation.”
Kenna Kunijo, a hairstylist and co-owner at North Carolina’s Kenna Kunijo Salon, advised in an interview with the globally renowned beauty and fashion magazine “Allure” that it is best to comb through dry hair before showering to remove buildup and debris from the hair.
When you are ready to shower, paying attention to water temperature is crucial. Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, a board-certified dermatologist with 1.5 million followers on Instagram, warned that using overly hot water can lead to dryness or inflammation of the scalp and skin, suggesting setting the shower temperature to warm.
She emphasized, “It’s important not to wash your face or body before completing the shampoo process.” This is to prevent shampoo and conditioner residues from remaining on the face or body, which could clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
Dr. Zubritsky also recommended that skincare during showers is essential. Exfoliating the skin 1 to 2 times a week at most, using gentle exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid for dry or sensitive skin types, can smooth out the skin and reduce the risk of razor cuts.
Dr. Zubritsky suggested not to fear the double cleansing of the face, suggesting starting with an oily cleanser followed by a water-based one can prevent frequent pore clogging and acne breakouts on the face.
Regarding showers, Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist accredited by the New York City Commission, advised, “After long showers, immediate moisturizing is necessary to maintain skin hydration balance, making the skin softer and more elastic.”
She further added that extended showering or baths can strip the skin of natural oils, making it susceptible to dryness and external irritants. Choosing moisturizing products with shea butter or hyaluronic acid can help maintain skin hydration.
Moreover, some people opt to lengthen their shower or bath time to feel cleaner or more comfortable. A study published in 2024 by the University of Surrey in the UK revealed the average shower duration among Britons.
By installing sensors in 290 shower stalls at the university, they collected 86,000 shower records using 4.4 million liters of hot water over 39 weeks. The average shower time for all students and staff was 6.7 minutes, with 50% showering between 3.3 and 8.8 minutes, and only a few individuals taking showers lasting 30 to 60 minutes.
Researchers noted that shower times could be longer for the general population. Professor Walker from the university mentioned on Twitter, “Surrey University students take slightly shorter showers compared to many people. We measured an average shower time of 10.8 minutes in public places in the UK,” suggesting shortening shower times to conserve precious water resources and energy.
Dr. David Kaplan, a medical doctor in adult and pediatric dermatology at Wake Forest University, once mentioned correct bathing habits in a blog post. He believed that following such practices can prevent skin issues and halt deteriorations for eczema, acne, and psoriasis patients.
He advised that eczema patients should avoid hot water and harsh soaps, which could exacerbate symptoms like itching, redness, and dryness. Instead, they should use warm water, mild cleansers, and moisturize immediately after bathing.
Dr. Kaplan also suggested individuals prone to acne could use oil-free non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturizers to prevent pore blockages and acne growth. He reminded those with these conditions to avoid excessive scrubbing that might worsen acne lesions.
Lastly, Dr. Kaplan recommended that psoriasis patients should use warm water and fragrance-free, dye-free cleansers, add mineral oil, bath oils, or oatmeal to bathwater to soothe discomfort and reduce flaking. Moreover, they should avoid hot water and excessive scrubbing, as they can worsen psoriasis symptoms.