Most of us are well aware of how to take a shower. However, there’s actually more to taking a shower then cranking up the water and stepping under the spray—wash, rinse, repeat, and towel dry. In fact, many of us are guilty of the following in-shower and post-bathing mistakes that can actually damage our skin.

Immerse yourself in these common showering mistakes:

1. Face cleansing in the shower

Sure, it’s convenient to wash my face in the shower. For this exact reason, I keep my face wash within reaching distance so I can suds up and cleanse my face and neck mid shower. That way I can use a toner and facial moisturizer right away post-shower for best absorption. But little did I know, I’m probably not thoroughly cleaning my face if I’m doing it with lathered hair in the shower. Doing so leaves soap residue on my face and leaves me open to blackheads and acne. Now I use my face wash right after my shower instead so I’m ensured a clean and cleansed canvas.

2. Temperature control

Stepping into a steaming, hot shower is a welcome respite after a long day at work, particularly during the colder months. However, before you melt all your stress away under a super hot stream, keep in mind that too hot, too long bathing rituals can strip the natural, protective oils from your skin, leading to skin itch, scaly patches, and even exacerbating eczema symptoms. Instead, aim to keep your shower temperature lukewarm so those natural oils continue to act as a protective and moisturizing skin barrier.

3. Rinse and repeat

Do you rinse away all of the stray soap bubbles from your body and face (even from behind your ears) before exiting the shower? If you don’t, and instead wipe the remaining bubbles away with a towel, dermatologists warn that lingering soap residue can cause blemishes, skin dryness, and even skin irritation due to leftover chemicals and fragrance contained in the body washes left on the surface of your skin.

4. Rough rub down

In winter weather it’s painful going from shower to towel slowly. Rather, I aim to vigorously rub down my body and get into my sweats ASAP to avoid a chill. However, applying a gentle touch as you pat your skin dry will prevent skin irritation, abrasion, and dryness.

5. Don’t skip body lotion

Your mother might have told you it’s important to moisturize after every shower or bath. And it turns out mamma was correct. Especially in winter, I’m sometimes tempted to avoid lathering on the body lotion after a shower. Why? Because I’d rather be wrapped in a towel vs. standing naked and freezing while I apply body lotion. However, if you don’t apply lotion head to toe right after your shower, you’re not taking advantage of the most opportune time for your skin to absorb moisture when it’s already damp and hydrated from showering. Skipping the body lotion leaves your skin prone to dryness as the water evaporates off your skin. Not to mention it can lead to itching, dry scales, and even accelerate the aging process.

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