Men's Life Today: Expert Q+A

I feel like daily showers dry out my skin. Is it unhygienic to take a shower every two or three days?

Daily showers are more of a cultural phenomenon than a medical necessity. And you’re correct in that excess exposure to water -- especially hot water in a shower -- can strip the skin of oil and lead to irritation. Although I recommend that people clean the face, armpits and groin area every day, full showers are not necessary. If you feel the need to take showers daily or more, you can skip the soap except in those special areas that need cleaning. Detergents in some soaps can cause skin irritation as well.