From Age 65, How Often Should You Shower? Why Over-Washing Can Be Harmful to Your Health…
As we grow older, even the simplest daily routines deserve a second look. One surprising example? Showering.
While a daily shower may feel refreshing and routine, experts are now saying that once you’re over 65, you may be showering too much — and doing more harm than good to your skin.
Let’s break down why.
How Aging Affects Your Skin
As the body ages, skin becomes thinner, drier, and more fragile. This is due to a natural decline in collagen, elastin, and sebum — the substances that keep skin plump, elastic, and protected.
Imagine your skin barrier as a shield. By the time you reach your mid-60s, that shield becomes worn, letting in more environmental stressors like pollution, cold, and chemicals. Frequent showering — especially with hot water and harsh soaps — only speeds up that wear and tear.
The Hidden Risks of Over-Showering
Hot water and strong soaps strip away more than dirt. They remove your skin’s natural oils and disrupt the delicate microbiome — the beneficial bacteria that protect you from infections and irritants.
For those over 65, the effects can include:
- Itching and tightness
- Redness and irritation
- Cracks or microtears in the skin
- Higher risk of skin infections
So, How Often Should You Shower?
Experts recommend 2 to 3 times per week for older adults. That’s enough to maintain hygiene without damaging your skin.
This advice isn’t just theory — it’s already practiced in many hospitals and elder care settings to prevent skin issues in older patients. Think of it like car maintenance: regular, gentle care beats over-washing every time.
The Right Way to Shower After 65…When you do shower, here’s how to protect your skin:
- Keep water lukewarm, not hot
- Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps or soap-free cleansers made for sensitive skin
- Keep showers short — around 5 minutes
- Pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing
- Apply a moisturizer immediately after to lock in hydration
- Look for creams rich in ceramides, glycerin, or natural oils — they help rebuild the skin’s natural barrier.
The Bottom Line: Less Is More
Showering less doesn’t mean being less clean — it means being smarter about your hygiene. After 65, your skin needs more protection, not more scrubbing.
By adjusting your routine, you’re not just caring for your skin — you’re honoring your body and giving it exactly what it needs to age with grace and strength.