All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
So, I asked top dermatologists to share the most common faux-pas that occur under the shower head.
RichLegg/Getty Images
Hot showers feel so good, but they arent too hot for your skin.
Experts agree that a lukewarm showerabout the temperature of a heated swimming poolis better than a steaming hot spray.
Many derms even believe that once a day is too much.
This is especially true if your skin is cracked, dry, andsensitive.
Engelman’s favorite for the body isAvene XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil($31).
For the face, tryBiossance Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil($30).
TryDove Foaming Body Wash($6) orNivea Silk Mousse Body Wash($6).
It makes sense to store what you use in the shower in your actual shower, right?
But experts warn against this, as the hot and steamy environment is a breeding ground for bacteria.
Using a bacteria-infested product for exfoliation would make you more prone to infections, explains Engelman.
Unless yourloofahis super dry in between use and bleached regularly, you are risking more damage than good.
Exfoliatingis one of those self-pampering skin-care musts.
So, its best to stick to shaving in the same direction the hair grows.
Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles that can be accompanied by bacteria filled pustules.
Razors create teeny, tiny microscopic tears in the skin.
This is even more important when youve just shaved your legs in the shower.
Shaving is a process that involves the razor, your hair, and your skin, explains Zeichner.
Not properly moisturizing afterwards can lead to skin irritation and inflammation known as razor burn.
For this reason, he recommends a petrolatum-based moisturizer to coat and protect the skin post-shower.
TryCurel Hydra Therapy Wet Skin Moisturizer($11) andJergens Wet Skin Moisturizer($6).
Remember freshman year of college when you showered in a communal bathroom alongside dozens of other students?
You probably (hopefully) wore flip flops to protect your feet.
The same safety precautions should be used at the gym.
Any time youre rinsing off in a public shower, cover your feet.
