Is showering daily after the age of 70 still really beneficial? What experts say.
We’ve been told our whole lives that showering daily is the foundation of good hygiene. But what if this deeply ingrained habit becomes less beneficial over the years than we thought? From the age of 70, our skin changes significantly, and what we consider a healthy reflex could, according to some experts, do more harm than good. Enough to make us question long-held beliefs… and develop a healthy dose of self-reflection in the process.
Skin that is changing needs needs that continue to evolve.
As we age, our skin changes: it becomes thinner, drier, and more sensitive. The sebaceous glands produce less natural oil, and the skin’s protective barrier gradually weakens. The result? Skin that is less able to defend itself and retain its natural moisture.
Daily showering, especially with hot water and soap, accelerates this process. It removes the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, itching, and minor irritations. These often invisible micro-injuries can be entry points for infections. After age 70, soft skin is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.
Maintaining a healthy bacterial balance on the skin is a valuable ally.
Our skin is home to billions of beneficial bacteria that form a natural protective shield. Washing too frequently—especially with antibacterial or heavily perfumed soaps—disrupts this delicate balance. Paradoxically, “too clean” skin becomes more susceptible to redness, fungal infections, and inflammation.
Doctors are now talking about “over-hygiene”. The goal is not to forgo cleanliness, but to approach it differently: to favor mild, fragrance-free products and to preserve the skin microbiome that protects us daily.
Two to three showers per week: the surprising recommendation
On this point, most dermatologists and geriatricians agree: From the age of 65 to 70, two to three showers per week are perfectly sufficient, except in special cases (intense physical activity, specific medical problems).
On other days? A targeted wash is perfectly sufficient: face, hands, underarms, and a damp washcloth for freshening up. Simple, effective, and much gentler on the skin. And soap isn’t necessary: while underarms, groin, and feet do require daily care, the rest of the body can be washed wonderfully with plain water.
Safety first: Avoid falls
It’s something we rarely think about, but showering also poses a real health risk. Slippery floors, prolonged standing, the heat of the water which lowers blood pressure… all these factors increase the risk of falls, the most common cause of household accidents among seniors.
Small adjustments can make all the difference: a non-slip mat, grab bars, warm water, and short showers – ideally between 5 and 8 minutes. Small changes with a big impact.
The phase after showering is an equally important step.
What happens after showering is just as important as the shower itself. Skin loses moisture quickly immediately after showering. Therefore, pat yourself dry gently (never rub!) and immediately apply a moisturizer to your still slightly damp skin to lock in the moisture.
Healthy aging also means learning to listen to your body and adapting your habits with intelligence and sensitivity.