Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
BATHING every day could lead to itchy dry skin and an increased risk of skin cancer, according to some experts.
Some artisinal miners even believe it can bring bad luck. If you want to maintain that beautiful natural skin glow without expensive creams and lotions, the secret may lie in bathing only three times a week. Off course, this should be combined with a balanced diet.
Experts from the University of Nottingham’s Eczema Bathing Study, Harvard Health and the Cleveland Clinic have noted that while personal hygiene remains important, over-washing can damage the skin’s natural protective barrier.Experts in Zimbabwe agree.
They say it’s ideal to bath only two to four times a week.
However, they said an exception to the rule could be people whose lifestyles or work routines cause them to sweat profusely daily. Such people, they said, may need to wash their bodies every day but they should not spend more than 10 minutes in the bath and must avoid harsh soaps and very hot water.
Speaking to B-Metro, Bulawayo biologist, biochemist, cosmetic chemist and founder of Royalty Skincare, Mercy Mabiza, said scrubbing the body every day may strip the skin of essential oils.
“From both a biological and cosmetic science perspective, I agree that daily bathing is not biologically necessary for every individual.
“The skin is a living organ with its own microbiome and protective lipid barrier that naturally maintains skin health,” she said.
Although Zimbabwe’s warm climate often calls for regular cleansing because of perspiration, Mabiza said the goal should be balancing hygiene with preserving the skin’s natural protective functions. “Very hot water and harsh soaps remove the skin’s natural lipids, increase trans-epidermal water loss and weaken the skin barrier.
“Over time this can lead to dryness, irritation, sensitivity, eczema flare-ups and even premature skin ageing.
“When these oils are stripped away repeatedly, the skin becomes dry and vulnerable.
“In some people, the skin responds by producing even more oil, contributing to acne. In others, especially those with sensitive skin, it can result in inflammation, itching and increased sensitivity.
“Healthy skin is not about removing every trace of oil; it is about maintaining balance.” Renowned medical doctor and gynaecologist, Dr Solwayo Ngwenya, agreed.
“Even our forebears did not bath every day. Overbathing removes the skin’s protective barrier and exposes the body to an increased risk of skin cancers.
“Just keep good hygiene and find the sweet spot between showers and maintaining the skin’s healthy bacteria that keeps it healthy and glowing,” he said.
He also discouraged excessive intimate washing.
“Women also have a belief that they should scrub and douche their privates constantly. That is not necessary. Nature takes care of itself down there, using plain water is the best.”
He added that people with eczema, psoriasis, sensitive skin and older adults often benefit from shorter, less frequent showers.
Those who bath daily should keep showers to between five and 10 minutes, use lukewarm water and moisturise immediately afterwards with products containing ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid or natural plant oils.
Another skincare specialist, Gamuchirai Rejoice Charunduka of Skin Care Skin Share, said daily bathing can still be appropriate, particularly for people who produce more oil, but cautioned against prolonged hot showers.
“Our sebaceous glands produce oils throughout the day. When these oils accumulate, the pores become clogged, making it difficult for the skin to function properly.
“On the face this can contribute to acne,” she said.
Traditional healer Mhabhinyana said bathing frequency should depend on one’s occupation.
“If someone does physically demanding work and sweats a lot, they should bath every day. If someone works where they do not sweat much, daily bathing may not be necessary,” he said.
Artisanal miner Platini Nyathi said many gold panners believe bathing every day brings bad luck.
