Dermatologists have advised older adults to adopt a gentler bathing routine, warning that frequent showers and excessive use of soap can strip the skin of its natural protective oils and increase the risk of dryness, irritation and other skin problems.
According to skin specialists, the aging process naturally alters the skin, making it thinner, less elastic and more fragile. As people grow older, the body also produces fewer natural oils, while skin cells regenerate more slowly, weakening the skin’s ability to retain moisture and defend itself against external irritants.
Dr. Sylvie Meaume, a dermatologist and Head of the Geriatric Wounds and Healing Unit at AP-HP Rothschild Hospital, explained that these changes make older adults more likely to experience tight, itchy and excessively dry skin.
She noted that the skin’s hydrolipidic film, a natural barrier responsible for locking in moisture and protecting against harmful substances, becomes less effective with age. Frequent washing, especially with harsh soaps, can further weaken this barrier.
To help preserve skin health, experts recommend that adults aged 65 and above take full showers about twice a week, while still rinsing the body daily when necessary.
They also advise limiting the use of soap to approximately every third day instead of during every shower. However, areas such as the underarms, feet and intimate regions should still be cleaned daily to maintain proper hygiene.
Dermatologists further recommend using lukewarm water instead of hot water, as high temperatures can remove the skin’s remaining natural oils. Showers should also be kept short, ideally between three and four minutes.
When choosing cleansing products, experts encourage older adults to use mild alternatives such as shower oils, lipid-rich soaps or dermatological cleansing bars instead of conventional soaps that contain strong detergents.
After bathing, they advise gently patting the skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing vigorously, which may cause additional irritation to delicate skin.
Specialists stressed that reducing shower frequency does not mean neglecting personal hygiene. Instead, they say adapting bathing habits to suit aging skin can help prevent excessive dryness, eczema, irritation and other common skin conditions while maintaining good overall hygiene and healthier skin in later life.
