What body parts should you wash every day?

Showering is a routine activity, but there’s much debate about how extensive your scrubbing and lathering should be.

A few weeks ago, retired NFL star Jason Kelce shared his personal showering preferences on social media. He claimed, “All of you have been fed diabolical lies that washing every crevice of your bodies and hair, all the time is somehow better or healthier.” Kelce suggested that focusing on “hot spots” is sufficient for cleaner, healthier skin. When someone implied he didn’t wash his legs or feet, Kelce responded, “What kind of weirdo washes their feet…”

Kelce’s comments sparked a heated debate about what needs to be washed in the shower. We consulted dermatologists to answer this question and provide guidance on other shower-related queries, such as how often to cleanse and which body parts to prioritize.

What Should You Wash First?

While there is no definitive data on the best order for washing, dermatologists generally suggest starting at the top.

Dr. Cindy Wassef, assistant professor at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Center for Dermatology, recommends starting with your hair before moving to your body. “Shampoos and conditioners contain nourishing ingredients for hair that may be too rich for the body, potentially causing acne breakouts and folliculitis,” she explained. Washing your body after your hair helps remove any residue.

Dr. Susan Massick, a board-certified dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, also advises washing from the top of your body down to your feet. However, she notes that the specific order isn’t crucial.

Which Parts Should You Prioritize?

Dermatologists highlight certain body parts that should be washed every time you shower, while others can be washed less frequently.

Dr. Wassef recommends targeting the groin, buttocks, and armpits each time you lather up. These “hotspots” contain apocrine glands, which produce sweat and odor, according to Dr. Massick. “Sweat produced by apocrine glands can cause odor due to the breakdown of proteins by bacteria,” she explained. Regular washing of these areas helps prevent unpleasant smells.

Dr. Massick also emphasized the importance of washing your feet with soap during every shower. Feet have numerous eccrine glands, which produce mostly odorless sweat. However, when your feet have been enclosed in shoes all day, they can become smelly. She recommends thoroughly drying your feet, including between the toes, after showering to reduce the risk of athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.

While it’s advisable to wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, Dr. Massick noted that this doesn’t necessarily have to be done in the shower.

Conversely, areas like the back, chest, stomach, arms, and legs don’t need to be washed with soap every time, according to Dr. Wassef. The exception is when these areas become very sweaty.

Do You Really Have to Shower Every Day?

The American Academy of Dermatology offers guidelines for kids and teens but doesn’t specify how often adults should shower. Generally, once you hit puberty, daily showers or baths are recommended, especially after swimming, playing sports, or sweating heavily.

Dermatologists agree that regular showering is beneficial. It keeps your skin clean by removing dirt, bacteria, oil, and sweat, which decreases body odor. However, Dr. Massick warns that over-showering, particularly with hot water, can dry out your skin.

Dr. Wassef stated that daily showering is acceptable, but those with dry or eczema-prone skin may find it irritating. In such cases, showering three to four times a week may be sufficient. She advised more frequent showers if you sweat a lot or are prone to body odor and recommended showering after workouts.

In general, Dr. Wassef suggested not going more than a few days without showering. After three to four days, you might start to notice a persistent natural body odor.

What Are the Best Types of Products to Use?

Choosing the right products often comes down to personal preference, but experts have some general advice.

For hair, a hydrating shampoo is usually a good choice for most hair types, according to Dr. Wassef. If you use many styling products, a clarifying shampoo can be helpful.

When washing your body, Dr. Wassef suggested using an unscented soap or body wash to minimize irritation. “Soaps with built-in moisturizers can also help reduce dryness,” she added.

By following these dermatologist-recommended tips, you can maintain a shower routine that keeps your skin clean, healthy, and feeling its best

A Quick Review

Dermatologists recommend focusing on “hot spots” like the groin, buttocks, and armpits during showers. Start with your hair to avoid residue on your skin. Daily showering isn’t necessary for everyone; adjust based on skin type and activity level. Choose hydrating shampoos and unscented body washes to maintain skin health