Personal hygiene and skin cleansing have been an essential part of human culture for centuries. However, with the ever-evolving beauty and skincare industry, there is a myriad of opinions on the best way to clean and maintain healthy skin. Questions such as whether we really need to cleanse our skin, how often we should do it, and what products to use remain a matter of hot debate. In this article we seek to uncover the truth about soap and skin cleansing, answering the most common questions by reviewing both scientific data and expert advice.
Do You Really Have to Cleanse Your Skin?
Cleansing is a fundamental part of skincare – face and body. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it plays a crucial role in protecting you from external pollutants, bacteria, and irritants. Throughout the day, your skin accumulates dirt, dead skin cells, bacteria, and oils, which can clog pores and lead to conditions like acne, eczema, or dermatitis. Cleansing helps remove these impurities and allows your skin to breathe and function optimally (1).
However, there is a difference between cleansing for necessary hygiene and over-cleansing, which may strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation or dryness. Dermatologists suggest that individuals with oily or acne-prone skin may need more frequent cleansing, whereas those with dry or sensitive skin should limit the use of harsh cleansers to avoid damaging the skin’s natural moisture barrier (2). Thus, while the consensus is that cleansing is essential, the type of skin you have, your environment and your lifestyle should dictate how often and with what you cleanse.
How Often Should You Cleanse Your Skin?
How often you should cleanse your skin depends largely on your lifestyle, skin type, and personal hygiene preferences. For example, those living in urban areas where air pollution is high might need to cleanse their skin more frequently than those in rural settings (3). Although in rural settings there might be more dust, which could also warrant more regular cleansing. Additionally, individuals who exercise regularly or spend time in environments that expose them to dirt or sweat should cleanse their skin more often than those with sedentary lifestyles.
The general recommendation from dermatologists is to wash your face twice a day – once in the morning to remove oils accumulated overnight and once at night to clear the day’s dirt and pollutants (4). For the rest of the body, daily or near-daily washing is often recommended, particularly after activities like working out or heavy sweating. However, for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, limiting showering to every other day may prevent stripping the skin of its natural oils (5).
The truth is that a study from Harvard Health suggests that cleansing your skin daily isn’t strictly necessary for everyone, and in some cases, frequent washing can actually lead to skin issues such as dryness, itching, and eczema (6). They advocate for a more measured approach to cleansing, focusing on key areas like underarms, groin, and feet, rather than full-body washing each day.
What Should You Use to Cleanse Your Skin?
The type of cleanser you use matters. There is an ongoing debate between using bar soap versus body washes. Bar soaps, particularly those labeled as “antibacterial,” have been shown to be effective in removing bacteria and dirt. However, some bar soaps can be harsh and drying to the skin, as they may contain ingredients that strip away the skin’s natural oils (7). Body washes, on the other hand, tend to be more hydrating and are often infused with moisturizing agents like glycerin or shea butter, making them a better choice for those with dry or sensitive skin.
For facial skin, which tends to be more delicate, using a cleanser that is gentle and suited to your skin type is important. Dermatologists recommend avoiding products with harsh sulfates, alcohols, or fragrances that can irritate the skin or lead to breakouts (8). Instead, opt for mild, non-comedogenic cleansers that support your skin’s natural barrier.
Is Castile Soap Good for Cleansing the Skin?
Castile soap has gained popularity as a natural, eco-friendly alternative to conventional cleansers. Made primarily from vegetable oils like olive or coconut oil, Castile soap is often praised for being gentle, biodegradable, and free from harsh chemicals (9). But is it good for cleansing the skin?
Positives of Castile Soap:
- Gentle and Hydrating: Castile soap is made from natural oils, making it hydrating and less likely to irritate the skin. This is particularly beneficial for people with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.
- Eco-Friendly: Castile soap is biodegradable, meaning it’s environmentally friendly and safe for use in nature. This makes it a sustainable choice compared to traditional soaps that may contain synthetic chemicals.
- Versatile: Castile soap can be used for a variety of purposes, from face and body washing to household cleaning, making it a multipurpose product (10).
Negatives of Castile Soap:
- Can Be Drying: Despite its natural ingredients, Castile soap can be drying, particularly if used in its pure form. It’s highly concentrated, so using too much or not diluting it can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness or irritation.
- Alkaline Nature: Castile soap has a higher pH level than the skin’s natural pH. This can disrupt the skin barrier, especially for people with sensitive skin, making it more susceptible to irritation or breakouts (11).
In summary, Castile soap can be a good option for those looking for a natural, eco-friendly cleanser, but it’s important to dilute it properly and monitor how your skin reacts, especially if it’s on the sensitive side.
Bathing vs. Showering: Pros and Cons
Bathing and showering are two of the most common methods of body cleansing, but which is better for your skin? Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice often comes down to personal preference, skin type, and specific skincare goals.
Pros of Showering:
- Efficient Cleansing: Showers are a quick and efficient way to cleanse the body, especially after a workout or a long day of exposure to environmental pollutants.
- Water Temperature Control: In the shower, you have better control over the water temperature, which is important for maintaining skin health. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, so cooler showers are often recommended (12).
- Lower Water Usage: A quick shower typically uses less water than filling a bathtub, making it a more eco-friendly option (13).
Cons of Showering:
- Potential for Dryness: Long or hot showers can dry out the skin by stripping away its natural oils, which may lead to itchiness, irritation, or flakiness (14).
- Less Relaxation: Showers may be less relaxing than baths, as they’re more focused on the functional aspect of cleansing rather than providing a calming experience.
Pros of Bathing:
- Relaxation: Baths are a great way to unwind and relax, and they can be particularly beneficial for people with certain skin conditions, as the soaking action can hydrate and soften the skin (15).
- Good for Dry Skin: Adding oils or moisturizing agents like oatmeal or milk to your bath can soothe and hydrate dry or irritated skin (16).
Cons of Bathing:
- More Water Usage: Filling a bathtub uses significantly more water than taking a quick shower, which may not be the most environmentally conscious choice.
- Not as Hygienic: Sitting in bathwater, particularly if it’s not changed frequently, may not be as hygienic as washing under running water. The dirt and oils removed from the body can remain in the bathwater (17).
Conclusion
Cleansing the skin is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing conditions like acne or irritation. However, the frequency and method of cleansing should be tailored to individual skin types, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits. The truth is that while daily skin cleansing may not be necessary for everyone, regular washing of the face and body, particularly after sweating or exposure to pollutants, remains important.
Castile soap offers a natural and eco-friendly option for those looking to avoid harsh chemicals, but its alkaline nature may not be suitable for everyone. Lastly, when choosing between bathing and showering, consider your skin type, time, and personal hygiene needs to find what works best for you.
Our Recommendation
Our Shower gel and Baby Body Wash is made with pure castile soap, gently diluted with distilled water. Always moisturize after using any kind of soap.
References
- https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/bar-soap-vs-body-wash
- https://www.self.com/story/how-to-properly-wash-your-body
- https://drkormeilidermatology.com/how-to-get-rid-of-built-up-dirt-on-your-skin
- https://www.refinery29.com/en-gb/best-way-to-wash-your-body
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-get-clear-skin
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/showering-daily-is-it-necessary-2019062617193
- https://health.unl.edu/you-asked-we-answered-showering-every-day-bad-you-and-other-hygiene-questions
- https://www.today.com/series/one-small-thing/dermatologist-explains-why-taking-shower-better-bath-t128600
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/castile-soap-what-it-is-uses-risks-5089193
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/castile-soap
- https://www.byrdie.com/dr-bronners-pure-castille-soap-5105123
- https://www.healthline.com/health/bath-vs-shower
- https://www.skinelite.com/blog/how-bathing-benefits-the-skin
- https://www.metrolinadermatology.com/skin-care/can-charlotte-nc-dermatology-explain-the-effect-of-showers