6 Ways Your Shower Routine Can Give You Acne

Whether you just woke up, just finished a workout or are simply trying to unwind from a particularly long day, few things feel better than hopping in a warm, steamy shower. As wonderful as it may feel, what if we told you what happens in the shower, doesn’t stay in the shower? That’s right, the techniques you use behind the shower curtain could actually be to blame for breakouts you may be experiencing. Not fair, we know. 

Here’s the thing: showers, as relaxing and tension-relieving as they may be, can actually expose your skin to a host of blemish-causing germs—especially if you’re using a dirty washcloth. So, what can you do? Take a closer look at your shower routine, but of course! To help you pinpoint all areas of your routine that may need some updating, we’re breaking down the top seven ways your shower can give you acne. Ready for a routine reboot? Here’s what you need to know.

1. The Water Temperature You’re Showering In

Beyond the quality of your water, the temperature of it matters, too. When adjusting your shower knobs, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends lukewarm water. 

2. How You’re Washing Your Skin

Are you washing your skin properly? According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should massage a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser into your skin using your fingertips or an ultra-soft microfiber cloth. Traditional washcloths, mesh sponges and other cleansing tools can be too abrasive and cause unwanted irritation.

3. Using a Dirty Loofah

Speaking of washing techniques, while fingertips can be your best bet, we totally understand that there’s a certain comfort associated with loofahs and washcloths. We recommend proceeding with caution, however, as these cloths can breed bacteria if they’ve sat in a wet, dark shower in between uses. As you can imagine, that bacteria can be a recipe for disaster if contact is made with your skin. That said, if you can’t stick to fingertips alone, just be sure to use a fresh washcloth every time you hop in the shower. Oh, and store them outside of the damp shower, will ya?

4. Skipping Your Back

Ever wonder why your back won’t quit with the breakouts? Well, do you wash it? And no, letting your shampoo rinse down your back doesn’t count. Make sure that your back is getting the TLC it needs. If your fingertips can’t reach certain areas, use a clean back brush.

5. Relying on Your Shower to Cleanse Your Skin

While you’re in the shower, you might think that the water will be enough to rinse away the day’s grime. The truth is, you should always cleanse your skin with a face wash and body wash formulated to remove impurities, makeup, and dirt. That way you can help ensure your skin is squeaky clean before you slip into bed or go on with your day.

6. Showering Too Often

Last but not least, in your quest to be as clean and oil-free as possible, you might actually be overdoing it with the whole showering thing. Believe it or not, when you shower too often, you can actually risk drying your skin out, prompting your skin to produce more oil and potentially causing unwanted breakouts. Yikes!