For many, a daily shower is a non-negotiable ritual—an essential part of feeling clean and refreshed. But according to Agnes Wold, professor of clinical bacteriology at Gothenburg University, frequent showers may be doing more harm than good.

Wold argues that showering is largely a social construct rather than a necessity for hygiene or health. In fact, she suggests that washing too often can disrupt the body’s natural defenses, stripping away protective oils and antibacterial substances that help keep harmful microbes at bay.

More Bacteria, Not Less

One of the most surprising claims Wold makes is that showering increases the number of bacteria on the skin rather than reducing them. While dry skin tends to have fewer bacteria, the moisture introduced by a shower creates an ideal breeding ground for microbes. Studies have shown that after showering, bacteria spread across the body, making a person technically “less clean” than before.

A Long Road Back to Cleanliness

According to Wold, it can take six to eight hours for the skin to recover from a shower and return to its natural bacterial balance. This means that frequent washing may leave the body in a constant state of bacterial imbalance, potentially leading to skin irritation and other issues.

The Myth of Modern Hygiene

Historically, humans did not shower daily. In earlier centuries, bathing was an occasional event, and yet people managed to stay healthy. Wold points out that the human body is not designed for frequent washing, having evolved over millions of years without the need for modern hygiene practices.

Should You Skip the Shower?

While Wold’s insights challenge conventional wisdom, she does not suggest abandoning hygiene altogether. Instead, she recommends strategic washing—focusing on areas prone to odor rather than full-body scrubbing. This approach, she argues, is more in line with the body’s natural needs and may help maintain healthier skin.

So, the next time you step into the shower, consider whether you’re truly cleansing—or just disrupting your body’s delicate microbial balance.