A Look at Whether Baths Actually Make You Clean, Explained by a Dermatologist and a Germ Expert

Many people enjoy taking a nice, relaxing bath, but some may wonder if they are truly getting clean or just soaking in their own dirt. Dr. Caren Campbell, a board-certified dermatologist in San Francisco, suggests that baths do have cleaning benefits.

Dr. Campbell acknowledges that showers might offer a more effective cleaning method as the water runs down the skin and washes away dirt, whereas in a bath, dirt is diluted in the water. However, the psychological benefits of taking a bath can outweigh any minor differences in cleanliness between the two methods.

It’s recommended to take a quick shower before a bath, especially if you have been working in the garden or are visibly dirty. Dr. Campbell also advises against excessively hot or long baths as they can cause dryness by evaporating water from the skin. Lukewarm water and limiting bath time to five to ten minutes are ideal for maintaining skin moisture.

According to Jason Tetro, author of The Germ Files, spending too much time in the bath can strip the skin of essential oils and bacteria, making it more susceptible to harmful pathogens. It’s also essential to clean the bathtub thoroughly before use to remove any potential germs.

When it comes to bathing, simplicity is key. Using lukewarm water, applying soap to key areas, and moisturizing the skin immediately after drying off are essential steps. Dr. Campbell advises against adding bath products with fragrances that can potentially cause skin allergies, except for magnesium and Epsom salts.

If you’re considering adding bath bombs or oils to your routine, be cautious of the ingredients to prevent any adverse effects on your skin. For essential nutrients, it’s better to obtain them through a balanced diet or supplements rather than relying on bath products.

A Few Bathing Products to Enhance Your Bathing Experience

• Bob & Sola Blue Art Bath Vessel With Dead Sea Salt — $55.00: Hand-blown vessel filled with Dead Sea salt for skin soothing.
• Boy Smells Lanai Candle — $32.00: Candle with coconut, pink peppercorn, and other scents for relaxation.
• Bathing Culture Teracotta Detox Scrubber — $20.00: Scrubber for exfoliating and softening skin.
• Eir NYC Post Session Salts — $20.00: Salts infused with arnica and bergamot for muscle relief.
• Maude pH-Balanced Body Wash & Bubble Bath — $27.00: Body wash enriched with essential nutrients for skin nourishment.

Enhance your bathing experience with these products and enjoy a relaxing and refreshing bath while maintaining skin health.

Featured Image by Taryn Elliott via Pexels