| bacteria that help protect against infection | |
| Removing moisture | Water evaporates from the skin surface after bathing, taking natural moisture with it |
For younger skin, these effects are temporary. The skin rapidly replenishes oils and locks in moisture. For aging skin, which already struggles with oil production and moisture retention, frequent bathing can lead to:
-
Chronic itching
-
Cracking and fissures (which can become entry points for infection)
-
Eczema or dermatitis flare-ups
-
Increased sensitivity to soaps and detergents
-
General discomfort and sleep disruption
