As we get older, many things change—including how our bodies respond to everyday routines like showering. While taking a daily shower might seem like the standard for staying clean, it’s not necessarily the best approach for people over the age of 65. In fact, experts suggest that showering too often in your later years could do more harm than good. So how often should you actually shower after turning 65? According to dermatologists and geriatric health specialists, two to three times a week is plenty. Here’s why.

Aging Skin Is More Sensitive

Once we hit our mid-60s and beyond, our skin goes through several biological changes. It becomes thinner, more fragile, and significantly drier. This is because the body starts to produce less collagen and elastin—two proteins responsible for keeping our skin firm and elastic. Additionally, the production of sebum, a natural oil that keeps our skin moisturized, also declines with age.

This combination means that senior skin doesn’t bounce back the way it once did. It loses moisture more easily and becomes more susceptible to damage, such as cracks, tears, and irritation. And this is where over-washing becomes a real concern.

Daily Showers Can Strip the Skin

If you’re in the habit of showering every day—especially with hot water and soap-heavy products—you may be unintentionally damaging your skin. Hot water and most commercial soaps remove not only dirt but also the protective oils that your body produces. For younger people, this might not be a big issue since their skin regenerates quickly and produces more oil. But for older adults, it can lead to a vicious cycle of dryness, itching, and inflammation.

Moreover, using harsh soaps can further disrupt the skin’s barrier. This barrier plays a crucial role in keeping out bacteria and environmental irritants. When it’s compromised, you’re at greater risk for skin infections and other issues.

Two to Three Showers a Week Is Enough

Dermatologists now recommend that seniors limit showers to two or three times per week unless there’s a medical or hygiene-related need to shower more frequently. This isn’t to say you should abandon personal hygiene—it just means there are smarter, skin-friendly ways to stay clean.

On the days when you don’t take a full shower, you can still practice good hygiene by washing your face, underarms, groin area, and feet with a warm, damp cloth. This method, often called a “sponge bath,” can be just as effective for maintaining cleanliness without the harsh side effects of daily showering.

Tips for Showering Smarter After 65

If you or a loved one is over 65 and wants to maintain healthy skin without sacrificing hygiene, here are a few expert-approved tips:

• Use lukewarm water: Avoid hot showers, as hot water strips the skin of natural oils. Lukewarm water is much gentler and still does the job.

• Skip harsh soaps: Use fragrance-free, moisturizing body washes or soaps designed for sensitive skin. Avoid products with alcohol or sulfates.

• Moisturize immediately after: Within a few minutes of drying off, apply a good quality, fragrance-free moisturizer. This helps lock in moisture and supports the skin’s protective barrier.

• Shorten shower time: Limit showers to 5–10 minutes to minimize moisture loss.

• Watch for skin changes: If you notice redness, flakiness, or rashes, consult a healthcare provider. These could be signs of dermatitis, fungal infections, or other conditions that need attention.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are some instances when seniors might need to shower more often—such as after sweating from physical activity, dealing with incontinence, or under the recommendation of a doctor for certain skin conditions. In such cases, following up with a gentle skincare routine becomes even more essential to prevent irritation.

It’s About Balance, Not Neglect

The key takeaway here isn’t that seniors should give up showers—it’s that they should approach bathing differently to align with the needs of their aging bodies. Maintaining hygiene is still crucial, especially for preventing infections and promoting overall well-being. But for older adults, less can actually be more when it comes to water, soap, and time spent in the shower.

Ultimately, the goal is to stay clean and comfortable while protecting the body’s natural defenses. Showering smarter—not just more often—is the best way to do that.