Shower Smarter: Quick Tips for a Better Shower Routine

Learn more about different shower routines in our street interviews here.

Most people don’t think twice about their shower routine, but a few small tweaks can totally transform your hair and skin. These tips, including when to wash and how to moisturize, will help you get the best results every time.

How Often Should You Shower?

• Showering three to four times a week is enough for most people.
• Daily showers can dry out your skin, so tune in to how your body feels and skip a day if you’re not sweaty.
• Keep in mind that you might need a few extra showers in the summer heat.

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

• Washing your hair two to three times a week helps prevent product buildup and scalp irritation.
• If you have curly or dry hair, you might need to wash even less frequently.
  

How Should You Apply Shampoo?

1. Start with a shampoo tablet (or quarter-sized amount of liquid shampoo) in your palm.
2. Add a little water, rub your hands together to lather, and massage it into your scalp and roots where oil and buildup tend to collect.
3. Rinse until all the product is removed.

How Should You Apply Conditioner?

1. Apply a conditioner tablet (or one to two quarter-sized dollops of liquid conditioner) to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.
2. Skip the roots to avoid weighing them down, and rinse thoroughly.

How Should You Apply Body Wash?

• No need to overthink it. Use your hands for a quick clean, or lather up with a natural loofah or cotton washcloth for a little extra exfoliation.
• Just be sure to let your loofah/washcloth dry completely between showers to keep bacteria from building up.
  

When Should You Moisturize?

• The best time to apply body lotion is right after a shower, while your skin is still damp. This helps lock in moisture and prevent dryness, especially if you’ve shaved or used hot water.
  

How Should You Dry Your Hair?

• Avoid rough towel drying. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or an old T-shirt. This helps reduce frizz, especially if you’re air drying without heat.

A few small tweaks can turn your daily rinse into an effective routine that leaves you feeling cleaner, softer, and healthier. Make these simple swaps, and your skin and hair will thank you.