Think You Know How to Bathe? A Dermatologist Reveals Which Body Part You Should Wash Right After You Shower – Executive Summary

What should the ideal shower be like? The World Health Organization has determined for a few years that the ideal shower should last no more than five minutes, using warm water, without a sponge, and with a soap that respects the natural pH of the skin. However, these recommendations are often ignored.

Spanish dermatologist Sergio Alec García, member of the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV), recently shared an additional tip on Rac 1 radio station that could improve the way we wash ourselves. His suggestion is about the order in which we clean our bodies while showering.

According to the expert, showering should start from top to bottom. So, when you enter the shower, the first thing you should do is apply shampoo to your hair, let it work before rinsing it off. If you use fabric softener, apply it afterward, and while it is working, you can then clean your body.

Alique recommends starting with the torso, followed by the arms, and finally the legs. This way the water pulls dirt from the upper parts of the body to the lower parts.

The dermatologist also stresses the importance of paying special attention to the ankles and feet, areas where microorganisms often accumulate and which often do not receive the attention they need. Thorough cleaning of these areas can help prevent skin problems and infections, ensuring that the entire body is clean after bathing.