Things We Should Never Do After Showering

1. Rub Your Skin Vigorously - Your Skin Will Peel Off!

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When you get out of the shower your first intention is to get dry. And often we're in a rush or not willing to take too much time so the tendency may be to vigorously rub yourself dry as quickly as possible. But the hot water has softened your skin, so rubbing it can damage it. Instead, you should pat yourself dry.

2. Walk Out Of The Shower Dripping Water - What A Mess!

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When you switch off the shower don't just immediately step right out of the shower and drip water everywhere. For one, it makes the floor around you super slippery, and stepping onto the hard surface when you are soaking wet can be super dangerous and slippery!

3. Apply Makeup - Let Your Pores Close First!

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Don't start applying your makeup as soon as you get out of the shower because your skin is still softened, meaning the skin barriers are not as firm. Then, applying makeup with products and using brushes to blend the products can damage your skin! You need to wait for a little bit of time first for the pores to close.

4. Eat!

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When you have a hot shower, the blood pumps around your body and your heart is working faster. So, to be kind to your digestive system it's not a good idea to eat immediately after shower because the energy your body needs to properly digest your food is being diverted!

5. Put Synthetic Underwear On - Treat Yourself To Cotton!

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Cotton underwear is the most hygienic material for women to wear as it lets the skin breathe. Synthetics can build up heat in the area and dampness as the material does not allow for air or temperature regulation. So it's definitely not a good idea to put synthetic underwear on after a shower when you're super warm and slightly damp.

6. Forget To Apply Deodorant - No One Wants To Stink!

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You may notice that you start to sweat immediately after a shower, so it's a good idea to put deodorant soon after the shower otherwise you will produce more sweat. Part of the reason is that you're so warm, and the heat opens your sweat pores...so you don't want to get stinky immediately after showering.

7. Don't Spray Perfume Immediately To Avoid A Rash!

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Perfume is potent, meaning that it can be harsh on the skin. After the shower, you shouldn't immediately spray perfume because your skin is still sensitive. And the perfume will dilute and lose potency anyway. Wait till you are properly dry to help your skin, or spray it on your clothes instead.

8. Cook With Hot Oil - Remember, Water And Oil DON'T Mix!

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Statistically, cooking whilst you are wet can actually increase the risk of burns or hot splashes whilst you are cooking. So don't start cooking hot meals or using hot oil immediately after a shower! Wait until you dry, otherwise, the water can splash and make the hot oil spit!

9. Apply Hair Color Or Dye - Wet Hair Is Fragile!

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Hair has to be washed but when it is wet it is more fragile. So if you going to apply any harsh product to your hair, for example, hair dry or hair color, then it should be totally dry first otherwise it could strip your hair and damage it. It will also totally dry it out straight after a shower!

10. Apply Medicated Creams - Cream On Dry Skin Is Much More Effective!

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Medicated creams have active ingredients in them and water can interfere with these and alter the way that they work. So if you step out of the shower, don't apply your medicated creams straight after a shower as you may find that they are not working in the way they are intended to!

11. Pop Or Pick At Pimples - This Is Never A Good Idea...

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Considering how much more sensitive your skin is after a shower, it's definitely not a good idea to start popping your pimples. It can be tempting because the warm water opens your pores, making your acne stand out more which can give you the urge to squeeze them. But you'll be damaging your skin even more in the process.

12. Get Straight Into Bed - For Your Hair's Sake, Dry It Before Bed!

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A relaxing shower late at night, getting out, and getting straight into bed...sounds nice, right? Wrong, you shouldn't get into bed straight after showering because no matter how well you dried yourself you're still slightly damp. Wetness in your bed can lead to the growth of bacteria!

13. Using Hairstyling Tools Will Fry Your Hair Off!

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We all know not to use hair styling tools (heated ones) when our hair is still wet. But do we all listen? Probably not. The sizzling sound that your hair makes as it frazzles in the heat should be enough to tell us that this isn't what we should be doing. The water conducts the heat, damaging the hair much more!

14. Leave Your Feet Damp = ATHLETE'S FOOT!

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By the time you've dried your body you kind of forget about your feet sometimes and drying in between all your individual toes can feel like an effort. But, leaving your damp feet can lead to bacteria and yeast infections. If you continue to not properly dry your feet it can lead to Athlete's Foot!

15. Use A Dirty Hair Brush - You're Undoing The Hard Work!

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Straight after your shower, you'll probably want to brush your hair. But first off, you should wait until it's dry to damage it less. And two, you should make your that the hairbrush is clean, otherwise you are transferring all of the dirt immediately back onto your hair and it will dry oily.

16. Throw The Towel On The Floor - Your Partner Won't Forgive You!

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A towel on the floor in a heap cannot dry properly and a damp towel is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to thrive. Plus, the floor is somewhere that everyone walks, so why would you want to transfer all of the dirt that your wet towel has picked up, straight back onto your body?

17. Or On Your Bed

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Having a bacteria-infested towel is one thing, but that being your bed is another! We can never wash out mattresses, we can only change them and that's not something we do super often. So keep it fungi-free by keeping your mattress as dry as possible so that you're sleeping in a healthy environment.

18. Applying Fake Tan Straight After The Shower Will Make It Patchy!

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Applying fake tan to slightly dampened skin is not a good idea. It can make the formula split slightly, which can make it run or not dry properly. When the water lifts off your skin, it will leave a pattern of fake tan behind. If you want a smooth look, this isn't the way to achieve it!

19. Tying Your Wet Hair Up Into A Bobble Will Make It Snap Off!

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Don't put your hair straight into a bobble whilst it's still wet. You can cause your hair to break and it can damage it. Wait until it is dry before you scrape it back into a slick pony. Wet hair is less robust than dry hair and it has the propensity to break much easier!

20. Don't Forget To Have A Drink

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If you're one of these people who loves your shower water hot, it takes a lot of moisture from your skin and your body. It can lead you to be dehydrated without even realizing it. Don't forget to have a drink to rehydrate straight after a shower, it's super important!

21. Over Exfoliating Will Hurt Your Skin!

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As the skin barrier is weaker when it's softened from the warm heat, over-exfoliating your skin is so much more abrasive after a shower than before, or after waiting for some time. Don't start using exfoliants on your newly showered skin as it will be too rough!

22. Don't Put In Contact Lenses - Your Eyes Get Irritated In The Shower!

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Your eyes need a little bit of time to dry after a shower and they are not suitable to have contact lenses put in them immediately after a shower. Eyes are usually slightly irritated after water, or even products such as shampoo have gotten into our eyes. Putting contacts straight in can irritate them more!

23. Use Electronic Appliances - This One Is Self Explanatory!

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Straight after the shower, you are wet and your hair is still dripping no matter if you've towel-dried it. So leaning over your laptop or electronic device can be dangerous. And, it can cause it to malfunction and damage the device! Steer clear of your laptop until you have fully dried out.

24. Do Strenuous Exercise - No One Wants To Be A Sweaty Mess Straight Out Of The Shower!

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When you have had a shower, the heat of the shower will raise your heart rate and get your blood pumping. So doing strenuous exercise straight after the shower can make you sweat and can make exercise feel so much harder because your body is already working.

25. Jump In Cold Water - Can You Handle The Temperature Change? Probably Not!

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Going from hot and cold can be a strain or a shock on your body, especially your heart. In some cases, the temperature change can be good for your body. But don't do it if you are not aware that you are physically fit and able to do so! Otherwise, it can be dangerous.

26. Don't Sit On Your Bed - It Will Create An Unhygienic Space!

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What's the first thing most of us do after getting out of the shower? We wrap ourselves in a towel and go and sit on our bed for however long. But as we mentioned before, beds, and moisture mixed together are not a good idea. You need the area you sleep in every night to be as hygienic as possible.

27. Mascara - You're Asking For Panda Eyes

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Eyelashes sometimes take a long time to dry and you may have experienced putting mascara onto wet or damp eyelashes... it doesn't bode well. You end up with extremely clumpy mascara that makes it look as though you have one giant eyelash because they only separate when they dry!

28. Put Socks Straight On - Athlete's Foot Alert!!

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Putting socks on straight after a shower before they have fully dried out is a recipe for Athlete's Foot. This is because your body stays damp for a while after the shower and it's good to let some air onto your feet before enclosing them in a sock and creating a warm and moist environment.

29. Don't Apply Any Harsh Products

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Harsh products on showered skin are too harsh for the natural levels of our skin barrier. It can interfere with the natural bacteria and structure of our skin and damage it. Whether you want to apply products on your skin or hair after a shower, make sure that the ingredients are natural and gentle.

30. Put Old Clothes Back On - It's Counterproductive!

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After we wear clothes for a day or two they harbor a lot of dirt and grime that we pick up from the outside, or even inside our home. So while they may look clean and even smell clean, putting them back on after a shower puts some of the dirt straight back onto your body!

31.

Not Airing Out The Bathroom - Damp & Smelly!

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Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent mold growth in the bathroom. Use exhaust fans or open windows to allow fresh air circulation. Wipe down wet surfaces to reduce moisture levels in the bathroom.  Get into the habit of doing this each time you shower.

32. Don't Ignore Your Cuticles - Be Careful Of Dry Cuticles!

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Dry cuticles can lead to hangnails and make your nails more prone to infection. Apply cuticle oil or moisturizer to keep cuticles hydrated. Gently push back cuticles during your nail care routine.  There's nothing worse than ragged cuticles or, worse still, cuticles that take up half your nail!

33. Ignoring Discomfort - Ask For Help!

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Most people are more aware of any issues when they are alone and naked, so particularly after a shower. Listen to your body and address any discomfort, pain, or unusual sensations. Seek medical attention if you experience persistent discomfort or symptoms. Early intervention can often prevent more significant health problems.

34. Neglecting Your Armpits - Don't Forget To Dry Them!

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Damp armpits can reduce the effectiveness of applying deodorant and contribute to body odor.  Ensure your armpits are completely dry before applying deodorant to maximize its efficacy. Consider using antiperspirant to control sweat in addition to deodorant.

35. Skipping Post Shower Cool Down - Close Those Pores!

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A sudden change in temperature, especially from hot to cold, can stress the cardiovascular system.  Gradually cool down after a hot shower to allow your body to adjust.  Consider ending your shower with cooler water to promote circulation and invigorate the body.

36. Ignoring Skin Issues - Never Ignore Them!

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Pay attention to changes in your skin, such as new moles, rashes, or discoloration.  Promptly address any concerns by consulting a dermatologist for proper evaluation and guidance. Early detection and treatment can be crucial in managing issues relating to your skin.

37. Don't Forget About The Shower Drain!

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Hair and soap scum can accumulate in the shower drain, leading to clogs.  Use drain covers or strainers to catch hair, and clean the drain regularly.  Consider using a drain cleaner to prevent build-up.  It goes without saying that this applies to everyone in the household.

38. Never Forget To Apply Sunscreen, Even On Cloudy Days

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UV rays can penetrate clouds, and consistent sunscreen use helps protect against skin damage.  Apply sunscreen to exposed skin, even on cloudy days, to reduce the risk of sunburn and premature aging.  Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

39. Don't Neglect Your Scalp

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A damp scalp can contribute to dandruff and fungal infection.  Ensure your scalp is completely dry, especially if you have long or thick hair.  Use a towel or a hairdryer on a low setting to dry your scalp gently.  If you skip doing this, the itch could drive you mad!

40. Always Stretch After A Warm Shower

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Stretching after a shower can help improve flexibility and prevent muscle cramps.  Warm muscles are more pliable, making stretching more effective.  Focus on areas prone to tension, such as the neck, shoulders, and lower back.  You should really notice a difference.

41. Don't Ignore The Shower Curtain

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Shower curtains can develop mildew in damp conditions.  Wipe down or wash the shower curtain regularly to prevent mold and mildew growth.  Ensure it's fully dry before closing it to minimize the risk of unpleasant odors and stains.  It takes literally minutes to do!

42. Ignoring Your Navel - Most People Are Guilty Of This...

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The number of people who are guilty of this! The navel can trap moisture, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Gently pat your navel dry after a shower to prevent irritation and infection.  Regular cleaning and proper drying can help maintain a healthy belly button.

43. Sleeping With Wet Hair Is The BIGGEST No No!

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Wet hair is more prone to breakage, and sleeping on it can cause friction and tangles.  Allow your hair to air dry or use a gentle drying method before going to bed.  Consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and protect your hair.  It's a great investment.

44. Ignoring The Damp Bath Mat - It's A Breeding Ground For Bacteria!

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Damp bath mats can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew.  Hang up the bath mat after use to allow it to air dry completely.  Regularly washing and replacing bath mats can help maintain a clean and hygienic bathroom environment.  Ignoring this can cause your mat to smell musty.

45. Avoiding Dental Care Post Shower

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Brushing your teeth after a shower helps remove plaque and bacteria that accumulate overnight.  Skipping dental care can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.  It's essential to brush for at least two minutes and use dental floss to clean between teeth.

46. Leaving Conditioner In Your Hair Will Keep It Oily!

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Residual conditioner can lead to product build-up, making hair look greasy and heavy.  Thoroughly rinse your hair to remove all conditioner, ensuring your hair remains clean and manageable.  Using a wide-tooth comb while rinsing can help distribute the conditioner evenly.

47. Neglecting Ear Care - DO NOT Use A Q-Tip!

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Moisture in the ears can create an environment suitable for bacterial or fungal growth.  Gently dry your ears with a soft towel or by tilting your head to let excess water drain out after a shower.  Avoid using cotton swabs deep in the ear canal, as this can push wax further in and increase the risk of injury.

48. Using Hot Water On Your Face Will Destroy Your Skin!

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Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.  Lukewarm water is gentler on the skin, helping to maintain its natural moisture balance.  Cold water can also be refreshing and may help tighten pores.  Also, your skin feels softer with cooler water.

49. Ignoring The Health Of Your Hair

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Combing or brushing your hair after a shower helps detangle wet hair and reduces the risk of breakage.  It evenly distributes natural oils, promoting a healthier scalp and preventing knots and matting.  Start from the ends and work your way up to minimize stress on the hair shaft.

50. Using A Dirty Towel Will Un-Do All The Work You Just Did!

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Towels can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly washed and dried.  Bacteria thrive in damp environments, so it's essential to allow your towel to air dry completely between uses.  Regularly washing towels with hot water and detergent helps eliminate germs and maintain cleanliness.

51. Don't Put On Tight Clothes Straight Away

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Tight clothing can trap moisture against your skin, creating an environment conducive to bacterial and fungal growth.  Loose, breathable clothing allows air circulation and helps prevent skin irritation.  It's advisable to wait until your body is completely dry before putting on tight clothes to avoid discomfort and potential skin issues.

52. Leaving Wet Razors In The Shower Will Destroy It!

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Moisture can accelerate the dulling of razor blades. Store razors in a dry area to prolong their lifespan and maintain an effective shave.  As razors are expensive, you really should think after caring for them, especially if you want super soft legs and armpits!

53. Ignoring The Expiration Dates On Your Shower Products!

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Skincare and haircare products have shelf lives. Using expired products may be ineffective or, in some cases, harmful.  Check expiration dates and replace accordingly. Also, when your product is nearing its life, always have a spare in your bathroom cabinet to replace it.

54. Using Harsh Laundry Detergents On Your Towels Can Damage Your Skin!

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Washing your towels and shower curtains with harsh detergents can irritate your skin. Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to minimize skin sensitivity.  Don't go for anything that's highly scented as it's likely to have more chemical additives than a gentler scented detergent.

55. Disinfect Razors After Every Use!

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Razors can harbor bacteria, especially in the shower's humid environment. Disinfecting them regularly can reduce the risk of skin infections.  This is particularly important if more than one person is using the same razor.  It should be a definite no-no but we know it happens!

56. Unclean Sponges And Loofas - Replace Regularly!

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Loofahs and sponges can harbor bacteria and mold. Replace them regularly to ensure proper hygiene during your shower routine.  You can stick them in the washing machine when you're cleaning your bath towels and then you will remember exactly when you did it last.

57. Cleaning Flip Flops Or Shower Shoes - Bacteria Will Fester!!

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If you use shower shoes or flip-flops in communal areas, you are asking for trouble as they can easily breed bacteria and fungi, with the number of people using that area. Clean them regularly to prevent foot infections.  If you feel lazy, wipe them with an antibacterial wipe.

58. Using Scalding Hot Water For Your Shower Will Strip All The Good Oils Away

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So we've talked about what not to do AFTER a shower but it's important to say that you should never shower in extremely hot water.   It can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.  Go for warm water to protect your skin's moisture barrier.

59.

Ignoring The Impact Of Water Temperature On Your Hair Color

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If you have color-treated hair, using hot water can strip away color faster. Set the temperature for lukewarm or cool water to preserve your hair color.  A 20 second cold rinse, at the end of your washing and conditioning routine, can give your locks an extra shine.

60.

Skipping A Post-Shower Face Massage - Who Wouldn't Want One Anyway!

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Gently massaging your face after applying moisturizer can promote blood circulation and help relax facial muscles, contributing to a healthy complexion.  It's easy to say you can't be bothered, if you're showering at night, so maybe take your shower 5 minutes earlier than usual and don't make excuses to avoid the face massage.

61.

Neglecting To Clean Shower Shelves And Holders

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Soap scum and nasty residue can accumulate on shower shelves and holders. Regularly clean these areas to keep your shower products germ-free.  You probably don't even notice if they need cleaning and you may be shocked to see the build-up on these items.

62.

Neglecting To Clean Shower Toys For Children - You Would Not Believe What They Can Collect!

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If you have bath toys for children, ensure they are cleaned regularly to prevent mold growth and maintain a safe play environment.  Remember that young kids, particularly those who are still teething, will want to bit on anything in sight so this is really important.

63.

Ignoring The Condition Of Your Beloved Bathrobe

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A damp or dirty bathrobe can transfer bacteria to your skin. Ensure your bathrobe is clean and dry before using it post-shower.  After your shower, when you are feeling really clean, the last thing you want is to feel a less than fresh bathrobe against your body.  As with sponges and loofas, wash your robe with your bath towels.

64. Not Adjusting Your Haircare Routine For Different Seasons

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Just as your skin needs different care during the seasons, your hair may require adjustments in products and care routines.  You should consider using moisturizing masks in drier months and lightweight products when the weather is higher in humidity.

65.

Neglecting To Clean And Disinfect Your Shower Head

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Mineral deposits and bacteria can accumulate in your shower head. Clean it regularly to ensure a steady water flow and prevent potential health issues.  This is most likely the reason why you may have noticed that water is only trickling out of the shower head.

66.

Not Adjusting Your Shower Routine During Illness

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If you're feeling unwell, consider taking a lukewarm shower instead of a hot one. Hot showers can sometimes worsen certain symptoms.  They can sometimes make you feel a little dizzy, especially if you are ill or simply feeling a bit under the weather, not quite yourself.

67.

Not Checking Your Bath Mat For Wear And Tear

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Ensure your bath mat is in good condition to prevent slips and falls. Replace it if you notice any signs of wear or damage. As bath mats are often textured, unless you look closely, you may miss such signs.  For elderly people, this is especially an issue of importance.

68.

Neglecting To Clean Your Shower Seat Or Stool

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If you use a shower seat, ensure it is cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of soap scum or mold.  You could well be of the mindset that if shower products and warm/hot water are flowing over your shower seat, that is enough to keep it spotless but that isn't necessarily the case.

69.

Not Adjusting Your Shower Routine For Skin Conditions

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If you have specific skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, tailor your post-shower routine by choosing gentle products and moisturizers that cater to your skin's needs.  Your doctor or health professional may prescribe an emollient shower wash to feed your skin with moisture.

70.

Skipping A Post-Shower Eye Compress

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If you experience eye strain or puffiness, consider using a warm or cold compress on your eyes after your shower to soothe and refresh them.  Warmth can help relax eye muscles, reducing tension and strain.  If your eyes are dry or irritated, a warm compress can provide relief.

71. Why A Shower Is Often Better Than A Bathtub ...... It Uses Much Less Water

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Showers generally use quite a bit less water than baths (unless you stay in the shower for ages), making them an environmentally conscious choice.  Water-efficient showerheads, such as low-flow or aerated models, can further reduce water consumption without sacrificing water pressure.

72. It Saves TONS Of Time

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Showers are often a quick and efficient way to cleanse the body, making them suitable for individuals with busy schedules.  The ability to multitask, such as washing hair or face simultaneously, contributes to time savings.

73. Energy Efficiency Gets A Big Tick

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Heating the water for a shower typically requires less energy than filling and heating a bathtub.  Energy-efficient water heaters and modern plumbing systems contribute to overall energy savings.  Saving a few cents every day soon adds up when you calculate it on an annual basis.

74. Easy To Install

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Showers are generally easier to install than bathtubs, making them a practical choice for smaller bathrooms or renovations.  Various types of showers, including walk-in or stall showers, offer flexibility in design and installation.  They can even make a small bathroom look bigger!

75. Accessibility For Those With Mobility Issues

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Showers are often more accessible for individuals with mobility issues or disabilities.  Walk-in or roll-in showers, with features like grab bars and benches, provide a safer bathing option for those with limited mobility.  Tis makes the person using the shower feel more confident.

76. Did You Know That It's More Hygienic?

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Some individuals feel that standing under a continuous stream of water in a shower allows for better cleanliness compared to sitting in a bath.  Showers can be preferred for daily hygiene routines, especially when a quick refresh is needed.  You can be in and out in 2 minutes!

77. It's Refreshing And Energizing (Especially In The Morning!)

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The sensation of water flowing over the body in a shower is often perceived as invigorating and energizing.  Many people find that a morning shower helps wake them up and prepares them for the day ahead.  It gets the brain going and helps eliminate the  sluggishness.

78. Hair Washing Is Less Of A Struggle!

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Showers are well-suited for washing hair, as the water can easily rinse away shampoo and conditioner.  Adjustable showerheads and handheld attachments provide flexibility for targeting specific areas of the scalp.  Washing your hair in the bathtub means you end up soaking in the shampoo when it's rinsed off.

79. It Suits Smaller Bathrooms

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For smaller bathrooms, a shower stall may be more space-efficient than a bathtub.  Compact and corner shower designs maximize available space without sacrificing functionality.  This means that you won't have to step out of the shower and bump into the toilet!

80. You Can Easily Adjust The Temperature

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Showers offer precise temperature control, which allows each individual person to set the water to their preferred warmth.  Thermostatic or pressure-balancing valves help maintain consistent water temperature, contributing to a comfortable bathing experience.