After the age of 65, it becomes especially important to reconsider even the most routine daily habits, and one of those habits is something as simple as taking a shower. While most of us have grown up with the idea that daily showers are a sign of good hygiene, health professionals now suggest that once you hit 65, showering every day might actually do more harm than good.
may sound surprising, even counterintuitive, but it’s based on a growing body of research that shows how aging changes our skin—and how our hygiene practices should evolve along with it. As we grow older, our skin naturally loses some of its key protective elements. Collagen and elastin, which give the skin its firmness and elasticity, begin to break down. On top of that, our production of sebum—the oil that keeps skin hydrated and protected—also decreases.
These changes mean that the skin’s outer layer, which once acted as a strong, resilient barrier, becomes thinner and more fragile over time. Imagine your skin’s barrier like a medieval knight’s armor: when you’re young, it’s thick, sturdy, and nearly impenetrable, but with age, it becomes more like a worn-out shield with weak spots that leave you vulnerable to outside irritants like pollution, cold air, and harsh chemicals.
Add frequent hot showers into the mix, and you’re accelerating that vulnerability. Showering may feel refreshing, even energizing, but hot water combined with strong soaps strips the skin of its natural oils. For older adults, this can result in skin that feels dry, itchy, tight, or irritated. In some cases, over-washing can even lead to small cracks in the skin that allow bacteria to enter, increasing the risk of minor infections. Furthermore, too many showers can disrupt the skin’s microbiome, the natural collection of helpful bacteria that live on our skin and play a key role in fighting off harmful microbes. So, what’s the right number of showers for someone over 65? According to experts, two to three times a week is plenty.
That frequency is enough to stay clean and comfortable without stripping the skin of its natural defenses. This approach is already widely used in hospitals and elder care, where fragile skin is a major concern. It’s not about skipping hygiene but rather about being smart and gentle with your body. Think of it like maintaining a classic car—you don’t run it through the car wash every day; you take care of it thoughtfully and consistently. When you do shower, there are a few easy ways to make the experience better for your skin. First, always keep the water at a moderate temperature—never too hot. Use mild, moisturizing soaps or soap-free cleansers designed specifically for sensitive or mature skin. Keep your showers short, ideally around five minutes, and when you dry off, pat your skin gently instead of rubbing it. Most importantly, always follow up with a good moisturizer. Applying a rich, nourishing cream right after you step out of the shower helps restore the protective barrier that water and soap tend to strip away. Making these changes to your routine doesn’t mean sacrificing cleanliness. On the contrary, it’s about responding to your body’s needs in a smarter, healthier way. Skin care is self-care, and as we age, being more mindful about how we treat our skin becomes just as important as diet, exercise, or sleep. After 65, your body has done a lot of hard work for you—it deserves some extra kindness. By adjusting your showering habits and focusing on preserving your skin’s natural health, you’re not only staying clean but also ensuring that your body remains comfortable and protected for years to come. Taking fewer showers, using gentler products, and moisturizing regularly isn’t neglect—it’s wisdom. And if you start now, your skin will thank you in the long run.
