Wellness  

Is it beneficial to have your bath every day?

By Adenike Baderin

19 February 2025   |   4:46 am

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In the movie Time Bandits’, there’s a humorous scene where a Black man hesitates to shake hands with a young White boy. The Black man goes on to say, “I heard you people don’t wash.” The stereotype that White people don’t bathe frequently is a cultural joke that has appeared in various social media conversations,…

In the movie Time Bandits’, there’s a humorous scene where a Black man hesitates to shake hands with a young White boy. The Black man goes on to say, “I heard you people don’t wash.”

The stereotype that White people don’t bathe frequently is a cultural joke that has appeared in various social media conversations, memes, and comedic contexts. Around the world, bathing habits vary widely. While some cultures consider a daily shower non-negotiable, others bathe less frequently without a second thought. The question remains: Is daily bathing truly necessary, or could skipping a shower now and then be just as healthy?

Why do people bathe daily?

Bathing is deeply ingrained in our routines, but the reasons behind it extend beyond mere cleanliness. Harvard Health establishes three reasons to shower every day:

— Concerns about body odour
— Helps with waking up
— A morning routine that may involve working out

Hygiene and Odour Control: The most obvious reason for daily showers is to wash away sweat, dirt, and bacteria that accumulate on the skin. In warmer climates like Nigeria, where sweating is more common, bathing frequently can feel like a must, especially after a hectic day.

Helps with Waking Up: A morning shower is a great way to shake off grogginess. The sensation of water—whether warm or cool—can stimulate blood circulation, energize the body, and prepare the mind for the day ahead.

A Morning Routine That Includes Working Out: For people who work out in the morning, a post-exercise shower is essential. It’s not just about washing off sweat; it’s also about refreshing the body and reducing the risk of odour or irritation caused by leftover bacteria on the skin. For many, this post-workout shower is the perfect transition from fitness to the rest of the day.

Is it necessary for everyone?

The truth is, that not everyone needs to bathe every day. The necessity of daily showers depends on individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and environment. For example, those who work desk jobs or spend most of their time indoors may not have the same bathing needs as people who work with animals or hazardous substances. People with dry or sensitive skin may find that daily showers strip their skin of natural oils, leading to irritation or dryness. In contrast, those with oily skin or active lifestyles might benefit more from frequent washing.

However, many people wrongly equate “clean” with “frequent scrubbing,” but dermatologists emphasize that over-cleansing can do more harm than good. A gentle rinse may suffice on less active days. Experts suggest that bathing frequency should be tailored to individual needs rather than adhering to societal pressure. If you exercise regularly or live in a tropical region like Nigeria, daily showers can help maintain hygiene and freshness.

People with dry skin should also consider bathing every other day or focusing on rinsing key areas like the face, underarms, and feet instead of a full scrub. Additionally, adopting eco-friendly practices such as shortening shower time, using lukewarm water, and switching to biodegradable soaps can help minimize environmental impact.

Dr. Robert Shmerling advises that while skipping a shower may seem unthinkable to some, it might be worth considering for the health of your skin. Ultimately, there is no definitive answer to how often we should bathe. It depends on individual factors like lifestyle, skin type, and environment. So, while daily bathing may seem essential to some, it’s important to assess your own needs and find a routine that works best for you and your skin.