How to Shower Like a Dermatologist for Your Smoothest Skin Ever | Dr. Sam Ellis

Summary

In this detailed video, Dr. Sam Ellis, a board-certified dermatologist, shares her step-by-step shower routine for healthy skin and hair. She covers everything from pre-shower preparation to post-shower care, offering expert tips on cleansing, exfoliating, conditioning, and shaving. Dr. Ellis emphasizes the importance of using the right products, managing water temperature, and taking time for self-care during the shower. Throughout, she offers valuable skincare advice, product recommendations, and practical tips for achieving soft, smooth skin and healthy hair. Whether you're a busy professional or someone who loves pampering themselves, this routine is a must-try!

Takeaways

• 😀 Prioritize skin and hair health during your shower routine, starting with pre-shower prep like applying hair treatment.
• 😀 Setting up a comfortable shower environment can enhance the experience—consider using a space heater to warm the bathroom before showering.
• 😀 Avoid using super hot water in the shower, as it can strip your skin of moisture and increase dryness or irritation.
• 😀 Brush through your hair before the shower to remove shed hair and prevent clogging the drain during your shower.
• 😀 Always start your shower routine by cleansing your face thoroughly with a two-step cleansing process to remove makeup and dirt.
• 😀 Double cleansing your scalp with a clarifying shampoo and then a toning shampoo can help prevent buildup, dandruff, and keep hair fresh.
• 😀 Exfoliating your body during the shower helps remove dead skin cells, reduces ingrown hairs, and prepares your skin for shaving.
• 😀 When exfoliating, choose a product with both physical and chemical exfoliants for smoother, softer skin.
• 😀 For shaving, use fresh razors and short strokes to avoid razor bumps or ingrown hairs, and always rinse the razor often.
• 😀 After showering, rinse your body one final time to remove any remaining conditioner, and consider using acne-fighting products if necessary.
• 😀 After the shower, it's important to apply moisturizers within the first 5 minutes to lock in hydration, and always gently pat skin dry with a towel.

Q & A

What is an 'everything shower'?

An 'everything shower' is a comprehensive shower routine where you take time to exfoliate, cleanse, shave, and treat your hair, among other steps. It’s a more thorough, detailed shower experience compared to a quick, everyday shower.

How often does the speaker take an 'everything shower'?

The speaker mentions that they typically take an 'everything shower' once every 2 to 3 weeks, as they don't always have the time to do all the steps in one shower.

What is the importance of the shower temperature, according to the dermatologist?

The dermatologist advises avoiding extremely hot showers, as hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, itchiness, and conditions like eczema. A lukewarm shower is recommended instead.

Why does the speaker brush their hair before getting in the shower?

Brushing the hair before the shower helps remove shed hair, preventing it from accumulating in the drain during the shower. It also reduces the amount of hair that falls out once under the water.

What is the purpose of the first cleanse with cleansing oil or balm?

The first cleanse is designed to remove makeup, oil, and debris from the skin. It’s applied to dry skin and massaged in, targeting areas like the neck and behind the ears, before rinsing.

What is double cleansing, and why is it recommended for scalp care?

Double cleansing involves using two different cleansers to thoroughly clean the hair and scalp. The first cleanse typically uses a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup, and the second cleanse may use a regular shampoo or a treatment shampoo. Double cleansing helps ensure the scalp is thoroughly cleaned, especially for those with buildup or dandruff.

What role does purple shampoo play in the speaker’s routine?

Purple shampoo is used to tone the hair, especially for blonde or brunette individuals, by neutralizing brassy or warm tones. It’s recommended to use it every couple of weeks, as overuse can make the hair appear dull or dry.

Why does the speaker exfoliate before shaving?

Exfoliating before shaving removes dead skin cells, which helps the razor glide more smoothly over the skin, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs and razor bumps. It also softens the skin, making shaving more effective.

What is the purpose of using a conditioning mask in the speaker’s routine?

A conditioning mask is used to nourish the hair after clarifying or toning, ensuring the hair stays moisturized and healthy. The speaker recommends a mask for thinning hair because it’s light and doesn’t weigh the hair down.

Why does the speaker recommend washing feet during a shower?

The speaker stresses the importance of washing feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent bacterial buildup and conditions like athlete’s foot. Many people overlook this area, and it’s vital for overall hygiene.