Taking daily showers with certain products like Zote soap and scourers can negatively impact your health, experts warn. It’s better to limit showering to once or twice a week, as frequent showers can strip the skin of its natural oils and weaken the immune system, according to a study from Columbia University.
Zote soap, specifically, should not be used for bathing as it’s intended for laundry and contains caustic soda, making it alkaline with a pH of 9-12. This can cause skin problems, especially for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Surfactants, like those found in Zote soap, can lead to flaking, redness, dryness, eczema, and allergies, according to a PhD in Biology.
Scourers, or sponges, can also cause skin issues, including abnormal pigmentation and dark spots due to friction. Hot water is another bath-time risk, as it can spread a fungus and worsen symptoms for those with dermatitis, says a specialist in family and outpatient medicine.
To keep skin healthy during showers, experts suggest using neutral or pH balanced soap, a soft sponge, lukewarm or cool water, and a gentle massage with minimal shampoo. Dry brushing and the use of grass for exfoliating should be done in moderation with special items to avoid skin problems.
