Showering is a daily ritual for most of us. For some, it’s a way to wake up before a long day ahead; for others, it’s the perfect way to wind down after a hard day’s work.

No matter when you shower, there’s a right way to do it.

Putting cold plunges aside, the ideal shower should leave you feeling refreshed, clean, and with skin that’s actually nourished.

The perfect shower has three key elements:

1. Tepid water, not hot.

Shower with water around 33°C (92°F), which is close to skin temperature. Hot water can be delipidating - meaning it strips away the skin’s natural oils. We know it feels great and helps with sleep, but try to moderate it. Cold water may even be better for skin health.

2. Choose a gentle cleanser.

Use a body wash that respects your skin’s pH, which for men is around 4.5 to 5.5. Most bar soaps have an alkaline pH that isn’t skin-friendly. Generic body washes often contain controversial ingredients that don’t nourish your skin.

3. Ditch the sponge.

Scrubbing too hard can damage the skin’s natural barrier. And no, rubbing harder won’t summon a genie. Sponges are breeding grounds for bacteria. As satisfying as all that foaming might feel, remember: foam is just air. It doesn’t mean better cleansing.

Other tips worth considering:

Duration and frequency matter. Shorter showers help keep your skin hydrated and are more environmentally friendly.

Showering frequency varies widely across cultures - some shower twice a week, others twice a day. People often shower to feel refreshed or as part of their routine, not necessarily for health. But the frequency can affect skin health - especially if you're not doing it right.

There’s no perfect rule, but experts say showering every 2–3 days is plenty for most people (unless you’re sweaty, grimy, etc.).

Wash the dirtiest areas. Focus on your armpits, groin, and feet.

How often you wash the rest of your body depends on your skin type and activity level.

Let’s be honest - if you’re putting in work every day, you can’t walk around smelling like it.

And don’t forget your towel. Towels can harbor bacteria. Let them dry completely, replace them often, and give them a proper wash.

If you shave, do it at the end or during your shower. The steam opens your pores and softens the hair, making the process less irritating and giving you a closer shave.