A growing trend in Canada encourages showering less frequently and skipping soap altogether to better protect the skin's natural barrier. Is this approach right for you? CTV News reports on the rising popularity of this practice.
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Sandy Skotnicki, assistant professor at the University of Toronto and author of Beyond Soap, explains: "When you wash with soap, you break down that barrier. It's like dismantling a wall, creating leaks that allow more substances to penetrate your skin."
While hygiene remains crucial—especially for teenagers post-puberty who may need to prioritize it more—Skotnicki stresses that daily soap isn't necessary for everyone.
A dermatologist at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, Skotnicki advises: "Simply rinse off and thoroughly clean key areas. We're not suggesting you skip showers entirely. After a day at the office, are you truly dirty? Usually, no."
Skotnicki isn't alone. More dermatologists are advocating this shift, with online articles increasingly recommending against daily soap use. Over-showering and soaping strips away the skin's protective oils, leading to dryness and itchiness.
How often do you shower, and do you always reach for soap?
