Frequent washing is not automatically harmful, but certain habits can damage the skin barrier.
Problems are more likely when showers are:
* Very hot
* Very long
* Combined with harsh soaps
* Followed by aggressive scrubbing
The outer layer of the skin contains natural oils that help hold moisture in and protect against irritation.
Removing too much of that protective oil can contribute to:
* Dryness
* Tightness
* Itching
* Flaking
* Irritation
* Worsening eczema
## How Long Should a Shower Be?
You do not need to spend 20 or 30 minutes under running water to get clean.
For ordinary hygiene, a relatively short shower is usually enough.
A practical target for many people is around **5 to 10 minutes**, especially if the water is warm rather than very hot.
Long showers are more likely to dry he skin and also use more water.
## Is Hot Water Bad for Your Skin?
