How to build an effective men’s shower routine

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute or replace advice from a medical professional.

You probably think you know how to shower; you do it every day! But did you know that showering for too long or using water that’s too hot can have a negative impact on your skin? Creating a quick shower routine that cares for your skin can help to keep it feeling healthy and hydrated. Read on to find out more about an effective shower routine for men, including the best shower gel for men and answers to questions like, “How often should men shower?”

Why a shower routine for men matters

Most men want to keep their shower routine quick and efficient, which is understandable! No one wants to spend hours on personal care. Luckily, a great shower routine for men doesn’t have to take up too much time. Think of showering as the foundation for a good grooming routine. When you do it right, you can feel clean and refreshed, maintain healthy skin and streamline your morning routine. 

A consistent shower routine for men can help to:

• Remove dirt, sweat and oil.
• Keep your skin barrier healthy.
• Prevent breakouts and skin irritation.
  

How often should men shower?

When it comes to how often you should shower, there’s no one answer to suit everyone. If you have normal or oily skin, a daily shower works well. If you suffer from skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, you may be better off limiting showering to 2-3 times per week to minimise skin irritation.

How to build an effective shower routine for men

An effective shower routine for men doesn’t have to be complicated! Here are some tips to try:

Start with lukewarm water

Use warm water instead of hot water to moisten your skin and begin to remove the dirt, sweat and oil that can build up through the day. 

Cleanse your body with the right shower gel

Choose a body wash for men that suits your skin type. Sanex Men Skin Health Shower Gel comes in an Active Fresh formula for odour protection, a Deep Clean formula for gentle exfoliation for oily skin and a Sensitive Care formula. Apply the product to your skin and massage gently using a cloth or shower puff.    

Wash your face gently

Don’t forget to cleanse your face! Sanex Men Skin Health uses a 6-in-1 formula that both moisturises and deodorises, and can be used on your body, face and hair, as well as during shaving. It’s dermatologically tested, contains 0% sulphates* and respects your skin’s natural pH. 

Exfoliate your body

Exfoliating in the shower can help to remove dead skin cells and help your skin to look brighter and feel smoother. If you have an oily skin texture, a deep-cleaning shower gel for men can help to reduce excess oil and remove dirt and sweat, leaving your skin feeling clean and healthy. 

Post-shower skincare

Once you’ve rinsed your hair and body, pat yourself dry with a soft towel. You can use a body moisturiser to help your skin hold onto hydration and a deodorant to help prevent body odour. This is also the best time to shave, as your hair is softer and pores are open. 

Common men’s shower mistakes to avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when showering:

• Using water that’s too hot or showering for too long – this can wash away your skin’s natural oils, leading to dry and irritated skin.

• Using a body wash on your face that isn’t designed for that purpose. The skin on your face is more delicate, and some shower gels contain ingredients that are too harsh to use on that area. Sanex Men Skin Health Shower Gel has a 6-in-1 formula that can be used on your face, hair and body.

• Using too many products and overcomplicating your shower routine. Keep it simple and use one product that can be used all over, while caring for and respecting your skin.
  

FAQs

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about an effective shower routine for men. 

Should men use body wash daily?

Yes, men should use body wash every day, as dirt, sweat and oil can build up quickly on skin and lead to body odour, blocked pores or breakouts. Using a pH-balanced shower gel for men can prevent your skin from feeling dry or stripped of moisture. If you suffer from dry or sensitive skin, look for formulas designed for these skin types.    

How do you do the 90-second shower trick?

The 90-second shower trick can help give you a morning energy boost and wake you up for the day. First, wash your body as normal, with a body wash for men. Once clean, set the water temperature to very cold for 30 seconds, then back to warm for 30 seconds, and finish with another 30-second icy blast. The changing temperature works the same as hot and cold hydrotherapy and can have many benefits for both your body and skin. 

How long should a shower take?

Showering for 5-10 minutes is long enough to cleanse and hydrate your skin without overdoing it. Showering for too long or using water that is too hot can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry, irritated and lacking moisture. 

*Does not contain sulphate-based surfactants.