Whether at a muddy festival, navigating remote travel or simply breaking from routine, most individuals have experienced going a few days without a shower. While a brief hiatus from daily cleansing is unlikely to cause immediate severe harm, dermatological experts caution that the skin‘s health can quickly deteriorate.
Dr Tanveer Singh Chohan, a consultant dermatologist at St Michael’s Dermatology Clinic, and cosmetic aesthetics doctor Dr Ed Robinson, both underscore the critical role showering plays in maintaining skin hygiene.
It effectively removes accumulated sweat, bacteria, fungi, and dead skin cells. Without this regular cleansing, these elements can build up, leading to noticeable body odour, a dull complexion, and in some instances, more serious skin issues ranging from breakouts to infections.
Dr Robinson explains that showering is essential for removing sweat, bacteria, fungi, dead cells, pollutants, and products applied to the skin. “Without it, these accumulate and then there’s debris that builds up in your skin and this also forms an odour over time,” he states.
Dr Chohan elaborates that the impact depends significantly on the quality of an individual’s skin barrier and their cleansing habits. “We get a build-up of dead skin bacteria that interferes with the skin barrier,” he says. He likens the skin barrier to “bricks and mortar,” which ideally forms “a good seal and stops bad things from getting in it – and it also keeps water in and stops water from getting out.” However, a compromised barrier allows bacteria to penetrate, potentially causing “folliculitis, breakouts, acneiform problems and congestion.”
Beyond internal issues, the skin’s appearance can also suffer due to the accumulation of dead cells. Dr Chohan notes, “The skin can look a bit duller, not as bright as normal and it can be a change in the complexion as well.”
He also highlights potential problems with eyelid ducts, known as chalazions, which can become infected. Furthermore, foot health is at risk, particularly if individuals spend extended periods in wet socks. “Over many many hours or days, the skin will tend to break down and that can introduce infections, including yeast infections, if not cleansed properly,” he warns.
Recognising that showers are not always accessible, both experts offer practical advice for maintaining hygiene in challenging circumstances.
For on-the-go cleansing, especially when make-up or other products are involved, Dr Chohan stresses the importance of thorough skin cleansing. While dermatologists generally prefer to avoid wipes, he concedes that in these specific situations, they can be necessary. “Things like water wipes are good. They don’t have many ingredients in them which are harmful and are really good for the body in particular – especially the genital area,” he advises.
He also suggests carrying a travel-sized foaming cleanser, noting that “foaming cleansers tend to be a little better at degreasing and reducing the amount of dead skin, so I would go for that in this instance.”
Dr Robinson emphasises the crucial role of regular hand washing, particularly in environments like festivals where food is consumed and faces are touched. This prevents the transfer of “bacterial contaminants that can actually make you ill.” He advises prioritising key areas for cleaning: “armpits, face, genitals, hands and feet.”
After cleansing the face, Dr Chohan recommends replenishing the skin’s oils. He suggests using a glycolic acid exfoliating pad, which “exfoliate” and are “pretty good for congestion and cleaning the pores out.” Following this, a non-comedogenic moisturiser should be applied to prevent pore blockage.
To combat body odour, Dr Chohan points to Driclor, a non-fragranced antiperspirant frequently used in dermatology for excessive sweating. “Driclor can be used in the armpits, even on the feet, to reduce the amount of sweating and that can really help,” he explains, adding that reduced sweating also minimises the risk of blocked pores in those areas.
Sunburn remains a significant concern at outdoor events, Dr Chohan highlights. He advises “topping up every couple of hours for UV protection,” recommending spray-on UV protection for the body, specifically those with “UVA five stars and SPF 60 plus.” Dr Robinson adds that even on overcast days, substantial UV radiation is present, making SPF vital for preventing skin cancer and premature ageing.
Finally, Dr Robinson recommends carrying an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. He notes that “really small ones that are sold everywhere post-Covid” are a worthwhile investment.
5 festival must-haves:
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, £13.86, Superdrug
Caudalie Vinosun Very High Protection Sun Water SPF50 150ml, £22, Very
FreshWipes Body Wipes, £3.99
Nivea Black & White Invisible Original, £5.49
ESPA 24-Hour Replenishing Moisturiser, £48, Very
