Hair experts weigh in on whether an 'everything shower' is actually DAMAGING
- FEMAIL spoke to two experts about the pros and cons of 'everything showers'
- They also detailed the ideal order in which to use products in the shower
- READ MORE: Dermatologist reveals the best skincare routine for lazy people
If a regular shower is a quick catch-up with your body, an everything shower is a full-blown reunion.
We're talking deep conditioning, exfoliating, shaving, double-cleansing — basically, the works.
It's the kind of shower that takes way too long, leaves your bathroom looking like a steam room, and makes you feel like a brand-new person.
But what actually goes into an everything shower, and how can you make yours as luxurious as possible?
DailyMail.com exclusively spoke to David Johnson, a dermatologist and co-founder of RedliteX, and Dr. Ross Kopelman, a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration, to dive into all things 'everything shower.'
What are the benefits of an 'everything shower'?
An everything shower isn't just a transformational experience, it is also a therapeutic, mental reset.
By spending alone time in the shower taking care of yourself, you can use the time to take a breath and relax.
If a regular shower is a quick catch-up with your body, an everything shower is a full-blown reunion. DailyMail.com spoke to David Johnson, a Board-Certified Dermatologist, and Dr. Ross Kopelman, a Hair Transplant Surgeon, to dive into all things 'everything shower'
'From a scalp and hair health perspective, these longer routines offer the opportunity to give your hair and scalp the attention they need,' Dr. Ross told FEMAIL.
'Massaging in a scalp serum, doing a deep conditioning mask, or using a clarifying shampoo are all small but meaningful ways to support healthy hair growth.'
Warm water can also help open your pores meaning it's a great time to use masks and exfoliate your skin.
What are the downsides of an 'everything shower'?
David said the 'problem' with long, hot showers is how the water can dry out your skin and strip away natural oils.
'The skin barrier weakens and dries up, and the skin gets itchy and sensitized,' the dermatologist explained.
'People with eczema and rosacea notice that after a prolonged steam bath, their skin gets worse.'
He also revealed that your hair isn't 'exempt from damage.'
They shared the pros and cons of an 'everything shower' and also the best order to use products
'Hot water opens up the outside layer (the cuticle) of the hair and causes loss of moisture. That eventually results in brittle and frizzy hair,' he shared.
Dr. Ross added: 'For the hair specifically, heat and over-washing can compromise the integrity of the hair shaft, especially for those with chemically treated or textured hair.'
He suggested that if you're spending over 20 minutes under hot water regularly, 'lower the temperature slightly and finish with a cooler rinse to help seal the cuticle and calm the skin.'
Dr. Trevor Cates, a naturopathic doctor and founder at The Spa Dr., said: 'This is like a mini cold plunge for your body, helping to improve circulation, tighten pores, and boost your mood.'
What is the best shower order for the ultimate 'everything shower'?
Now, no one is telling you how to enjoy your hot and steamy two-hour shower, but here are some tips to get the most out of it.
David advised: 'Start with your hair: shampoo to wash your scalp. Then condition and leave it in while you go on to your body.'
Dr. Ross agrees that hair should be first because 'shampoo and conditioner residues can leave a film on the face or body that may clog pores or cause breakouts.'
Next, David said to wash your body to remove any leftover residue.
'[Wash your] face last: Your facial skin is the most sensitive skin area. Washing your face last will strip away the remaining product from your body and hair,' David explained.
The end of your shower is also the best time to exfoliate and shave because your pores will have opened from the hot water.
David also recommend to us: 'Warm water (not hot) and keep your shower to 10 to 15 minutes to avoid dryness.'
However, if you're an avid everything shower taker, you know the shower is quite a lengthy experience.
After getting out of the shower, apply moisturizer to your face and body to lock in moisture.
