There are few feelings better than emerging from a shower fresh and clean. To help get the most from their soap, most people will turn to the help of a loofah, sponge, or washcloth. However, a well-known Dermatologist has shared on TikTok how the use of these objects can actually do more harm than good.
Renowned Dermatologist Shares Wisdom
Dr. John Zade is a dermatologist from the U.S. who has used his TikTok platform to educate others. With more than 130,000 followers, he’s reaching a large crowd and spreading knowledge that applies to skincare and other areas of health and wellness.
Oftentimes, people use a loofah in the shower to help better spread and suds up the soap. However, this may have an adverse reaction for at least two reasons.
First, over time, loofahs begin to harbor harmful bacteria that can become trapped in the skin and cause damage. In some cases, it actually increases the likelihood of acne and other skin problems.
Second, loofahs are abrasive, meaning that they have a tendency to be harsh on skin. For example, they can cause microscopic cuts and force skin to constantly be in a state of repair. In these cases, skin becomes more susceptible to certain fungal infections and possible long term health problems.
The dermatologist highly recommends using your hand instead of a loofah or sponge stating it will make “your skin look a lot better”.
Not only does Dr. Zade warn of the dangers associated with using a loofah. He also has shared several videos with other helpful tips for treating and dealing with sensitive skin, wrinkle repair, and even the best age to start getting Botox if that’s something you’re considering. He also shares a “secret pinch test” in which people can determine how to treat the circles under their eyes best. It’s as simple as pinching the skin under the eye and lifting it to examine it further. Each treatment method is unique to certain features that some may have while others may not.
Read: 14 Rashes You Need to Know: Common Dermatologic Diagnoses
More than Just a Dermatologist
Dr. Zade is more than just a dermatologist, he’s also an expert in other areas of health and wellness such as proper wound care, the dangers of using toxic candles, made of paraffin wax and artificial scents.
In another video, he answered a follower’s question regarding whether or not you can do cardio while fasting. Objectively, he explains that it “depends what goals you have”. For him, he “likes the benefits it can have.” For example, he says that if you work out while you’re fasting, there’s a “higher rate of lipolysis“, the process for breaking down fat cells in our body. Meanwhile, another video in which he addresses losing weight, he explains that intermittent fasting is an incredibly effective method.
@johnzademd What you need to stop using in the shower!! #dermhacks #skincaretips #fyp #dermatologist ♬ Sunshine – WIRA
Other Experts Have Suggestions
While he is seemingly well-versed in several areas of his field, he isn’t the only renowned dermatologist to have some great skin care tips for happy, healthy skin.
First, every dermatologist will most likely suggest some form of a 4-step face care regimen, including washing with lukewarm water after applying a non-abrasive and alcohol-free cleanser. Apply using the tips of your fingers. Next, gently pat the skin dry, and rubbing can cause irritation and extra blemishes. Last, apply treatments, then finish with a moisturizer. Typically, this should be done twice a day and after sweating. Moreover, a skincare routine should be done consistently to get the best results.
General Skincare Tips
A dermatologist will also likely point out that there are different skin types. As a result, understanding your own skin type is key to having healthy skin. Skin types include oily, dry, combination (oily in some places and dry in others), and sensitive skin. In many cases, they may also suggest avoiding the use of products that are scented. In particular, artificial scents can cause the skin to become inflamed or break out easily. Not to mention the possibility of causing long-term breathing issues and increasing the likelihood of asthma. The safest choice is almost always a gentle or mild cleanser and a moisturizer that hydrates well without clogging pores.
Other important factors that impact skin health include age. As well as knowing how to revise your skincare routine to meet the changing needs of aging skin. Proper hydration and nutrition, as well as steering clear of certain substances and products, such as alcohol, tobacco, and tanning beds. Moreover, almost every dermatologist recommends the use of sunscreen with at least 30 SPF.
There’s so much mixed information out in the world and available online, so it can be challenging to really know how to best care for our bodies, including our hair, skin, and vital organs like the lungs, skin, and heart. Luckily, experts like dermatologists and Doctor John Zade have platforms on which they can share their wisdom and advice with the general population in a matter of seconds.
Keep Reading: Dermatologist Reveals 3 Places You Must Wash To Avoid Life-Threatening Infections
Sources
- “Lipolysis.” Biology Dictionary. September 17, 2018
- “Dermatologist-recommended skin care routines and tips for different skin types.” Medical News Today. Beth Sissons. February 15, 2022.
- “Dermatologist warns of one shower mistake you could be making that ‘you need to stop now’.” Express. Katrina Turrill. December 23, 2023.