Personal hygiene goes far beyond smelling good or looking presentable. It's a fundamental component for maintaining healthy skin, strong hair, and optimal overall wellbeing. With so many products available on the market, it can be overwhelming to know what to use for specific problems. In this guide, we'll show you a complete shower routine based on dermatological advice that addresses common issues from the scalp to the feet.
The importance of water quality
Before talking about products, we should consider the water we shower with. 85% of the population has hard water, rich in calcium and magnesium, which can cause:
- Brittle, dull, and lifeless hair
- Dry and lackluster skin
- Buildup of mineral residues
A shower filter can eliminate these minerals, significantly improving the health of your skin and hair. Some filters even offer different pressure systems, providing a massage effect that helps remove shampoo completely while relaxing the muscles.
Scalp care
The scalp is often a forgotten area, but it deserves special attention.
Exfoliation to remove buildup
Many people confuse product buildup and dead cells with dandruff. For this problem, scalp exfoliants with glycolic and mandelic acid are ideal, as they:
- Soften the scales
- Prevent buildup
- Minimize flaking
Apply the product directly to the scalp with the applicator and let it work according to the instructions before rinsing.
Treatment for dandruff
If you suffer from true dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis), caused by a yeast that we all have on the skin but which causes irritation in some people, you need an anti-dandruff shampoo with antifungal agents like 1% ketoconazole.
Important tip: Let the shampoo remain in contact with the scalp for at least one minute to be effective.
Facial care in the shower
For acne
A cleanser with benzoyl peroxide is excellent for:
- Eliminating acne-causing bacteria
- Unclogging pores
- Preventing new breakouts
It's recommended to use it in the shower to avoid bleaching stains on towels.
For sebaceous filaments and rosacea
Sulfur cleansers are perfect if you have:
- Small spots that look like blackheads but are sebum buildup
- Skin with rosacea
- Excessive sebum production
These cleansers help regulate sebum production and minimize bacteria on the skin's surface.
Specific body care
Body odor control
The same benzoyl peroxide you use on your face can be applied to the armpits to eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
Treatment for body acne
For acne on the back, buttocks, or chest, you can choose between:
- Cleansers with benzoyl peroxide (for resistant skin)
- Antiseptic cleansers like hibiclens (excellent for areas prone to infection, but should not be used near eyes or ears)
- Antibacterial soaps with moisturizers (for more sensitive skin)
Hydration for dry skin
If your main problem is dryness, a cleansing oil is ideal because:
- It gently cleanses without removing natural moisture
- It leaves the skin softer and more hydrated
- It provides a comforting sensation
Caution: These products can make the shower floor slippery.
Post-shower routine for perfect skin
To optimize results, incorporate these steps after the shower:
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Chemical exfoliation: Use a body exfoliant with AHA, BHA, and PHA to remove dead cells, especially in areas with keratosis pilaris (bumps on the back of the arms) or folliculitis.
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Moisture sealing: Apply an ointment-type moisturizer spray while the skin is still damp to create a protective barrier that retains moisture.
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Intensive hydration: Alternatively or additionally, use a lotion with 10% urea to gently exfoliate while hydrating.
Customize your routine according to your needs
It's not necessary to use all these products in every shower. Identify your specific problems and select the appropriate products to address them. Over time, you'll notice a significant improvement in the health of your skin and hair.
A good hygiene routine will not only make you look and smell better but will also contribute to your skin health and overall wellbeing. By applying these dermatological tips, you'll be giving your body the care it deserves in a systematic and effective way.