One of the most important things to do post-shower is moisturize. Dr. Shannon Humphrey, MD FRCPC, a dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at the University of British Columbia, says people need to do this every single time.Here's why.Most people like showering in hot water. And while it feels good, the high temperature and body scrubbing can strip away essential oils your skin needs to keep it soft, says dermatologist Dr. Stephanie Taylor. "Without them, your skin becomes dehydrated, leading to what is technically known as itchy, dry skin or xerosis. That is why some experience tightening or itching in their skin following a shower."To make matters worse, water evaporates from your skin quickly after a warm shower. When it does, it's also pulling moisture out, leaving skin even drier.
How Quickly Do You Need to Apply Moisturizer?
Ideally, Dr. Taylor says to moisturize your skin between three and five minutes after getting out of the shower, explaining, "Your skin is wet, which aids in the lotion soaking in. I always instruct my patients to have a bottle of lotion next to their towel or sink, so it’s always in view."Lotions and face creams add moisture and seal away water to keep skin smooth and supple. And long-term, you're making your skin barrier less sensitive and more resilient. Of course, some moisturizers are better than others.Related: Body Oil vs. Lotion—A Dermatologist Explains the Difference
The Moisturizing Ingredients To Look Out For
For dry skin, Dr. Humphrey recommends choosing thicker, richer formulas like body creams over lotions. She advises against moisturizers that are too light or water-based. "Ideally, a product that needs to be scooped out with four fingers. You want something occlusive enough to seal in moisture."Additionally, while certain skincare products are marketed for dry skin, Dr. Humphrey says that after a shower may not be the best time to use them. "If you’re using actives like glycolic acid, lactic acid or urea to help with dry, flaky skin, those are best used at a different time in your routine. Post-shower skin is more sensitive, and these can sometimes cause stinging or irritation."Using the right lotions and creams can make a big difference in keeping yourself looking soft and youthful for years to come. Best of all, it only takes a few minutes after your shower. Up Next:
Related: People Aren't Washing This Body Part Often Enough—and It's a Health Hazard
Sources
Shannon Humphrey, MD FRCPC, is a dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at the University of British Columbia and medical director of Humphrey & Beleznay Cosmetic Dermatology.Stephanie Taylor is a dermatologist and senior consultant at MedPak Solutions. Read More Details
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