HomehealthThe best way to bathe and bathe, in accordance with dermatologists :...

The best way to bathe and bathe, in accordance with dermatologists : NPR

September 19, 2024

A bar of soap is working very hard to wash someone's arm.

Cleansing your physique appears easy sufficient. If you happen to’re smelly or sweaty, simply hop within the bathe or get within the bathtub.

However if you begin entering into the main points, issues get extra sophisticated. How typically must you wash? Is it higher to make use of bar cleaning soap or liquid cleansers? When must you get a brand new loofah?

Dermatologists Drs. Sonia Batra and Michelle Henry reply trustworthy questions on the topic. A few of their responses could shock you!

Do I have to wash everything? Or can I just focus on the stinky bits?
You should really wash your whole body, say our experts. Wash your underarms first, then under your breasts if you have them, your groin area, then your feet, in that order. You don’t want to transfer germs all over your body, says Henry.

What should I do with this washcloth I just used to wash my butt?
Wash your loofah or washcloth with soap, rinse it out with hot water and let it fully dry to prevent mold growth, says Henry.
Toss natural-made loofahs after one month, plastic loofahs after two, or right away if you notice any mold, discoloration or unsavory odor.

Baths weird me out. You’re soaking in your own filth, right?
“The average person is not dirty enough to create such a high concentration of dirt in the bath that it's going to create a problem,” says Henry. “But I do recommend rinsing off before you're done.”

Do I really need to wash my body every day?

I love to take long, hot showers. Is that OK for my skin? Sitting in hot water for excessive amounts of time can strip your skin of its natural protective oils. It can also dehydrate your skin, breaking down the barrier that protects you from potential environmental harms like bacteria, viruses or fungi.

Is it better to use bar soap or liquid cleansers? It doesn’t matter, says Batra. What’s important is that it’s gentle and moisturizing.

This comedian was written and drawn by Malaka Gharib and reported by Andee Tagle. It was edited by Clare Marie Schneider and Beck Harlan. The visible editor is Beck Harlan.

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