Dermatologists Have a Dirty Little Secret
Briefly

Many dermatologists suggest avoiding traditional soap for skin washing, emphasizing its harsh effects on skin health. It combines fats or oils with alkalis, leading to irritation and disruption of the skin barrier. Studies show that frequent use of soap can cause dry skin, sensitivity, and an increased risk of infections due to changes in skin acidity and pH balance. The article also highlights the importance of thorough rinsing and suggests considering gentler alternatives to maintain skin health while keeping clean.
Soap combines fats or oils with sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which effectively breaks down dirt but can irritate and damage the skin's natural lipids.
Washing with soap disrupts the skin barrier, leading to dry skin, sensitivity, and increased risk of infection as it alters the skin's acidity.
Most dermatologists do not use actual soap for body washing, instead opting for gentler alternatives to maintain skin health while ensuring cleanliness.
Soap can have detrimental effects due to its lower acidity than the skin, upsetting the pH balance, especially when not rinsed off thoroughly.
Read at time.com
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