By Kerry Hale

The Ultimate Guide to Everything Showers

  • Thursday 29 August 2024
  • 5 minute read

The “everything shower” trend has taken TikTok by storm, amassing over 300 million views under its dedicated hashtag. Enthusiastic users regularly share their elaborate routines, which combine body and skincare practices into a comprehensive shower experience. From hygiene essentials to pampering rituals, everything showers offer a pre-planned and relaxed approach to self-care.

 

But what exactly is this wellness phenomenon? And can you effortlessly recreate it at home? Our guide provides all the essential details about everything showers.

What is an everything shower?

An everything shower is exactly what it sounds like. Rather than your regular get up and go shower, it’s a thorough, deep-clean routine that leaves you feeling extremely fresh and revitalised from head to toe.

These showers typically encompass both haircare and skincare, including hair masks, exfoliation and shaving. Since they’re quite time-consuming, it’s best to reserve them for once a week, ideally on a day when you’re not too busy. Think of it as your personal spa and self-care day at home.

What are the benefits of an everything shower?

Taking an everything shower offers both physical and mental benefits:

  • Super-clean: The most obvious benefit is that an everything shower leaves your body and hair extremely clean and promotes excellent personal hygiene.

  • Mental wellness: Regular showers can boost your mood and help with depression. Establishing a daily routine provides security and confidence, while self-care triggers the release of oxytocin, reducing anxiety and stress.

The ultimate everything shower routine

What you decide to include in your everything shower routine is completely up to you – you should tailor it to your needs. Begin by setting the mood and creating a relaxing ambience. For tips on enhancing your routine through sensory experiences, check out our guide.

If you’re wondering what to include in your everything shower routine, consider the following:

Hair

Begin by focusing on your hair. There are several reasons for this, one of which is that many doctors recommend thoroughly washing off shampoo with soap to prevent potential acne outbreaks.

When it comes to washing your hair, here’s a good step-by-step routine to follow:

1. Shampoo

Begin by choosing a shampoo that matches your hair type and requirements. Apply the shampoo to both your hair and scalp, gently massaging it in. Rinse thoroughly. For an extra level of cleanliness, consider shampooing twice. The initial wash eliminates product build-up, while the second ensures your hair is exceptionally clean. This practice is particularly beneficial if you’re using a clarifying shampoo.

2. Conditioner

Conditioner is the key to achieving healthy and hydrated hair. Apply it to your roots and gently pull the conditioner outwards, ensuring you cover all areas (including baby hairs), barring your scalp. Leave the conditioner in your hair for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

3. Hair Mask

Masks are a great choice if you’re looking to give your hair that little bit of something extra. Choose from the following:

  • Protein mask: Ideal for dyed, porous or damaged hair, a protein mask can restore its health and elasticity. Think of it as a repair treatment for your locks.

  • Moisturising mask: This type of mask adds moisture, smoothness and shine to your hair. 

  • Pre-shower mask: Apply this mask before showering to detangle your hair, eliminate knots, and prepare it for washing.

4. Hair Oil

After washing your hair, allow it to air dry before applying hair oil. Hair oil provides hydration and enhances shine. However, if you have very fine hair, consider skipping this step to avoid a greasy scalp.

Body

Once your hair is squeaky clean, it’s time to turn the focus onto your body. Follow these four steps:

1. Exfoliate

The first step of your body-washing routine should be exfoliation to remove dead skin cells. You have a couple of options:

  • Dry brushing: Before getting into the shower, use a dry brush to exfoliate your skin. This step eliminates the need for further exfoliation in the shower.

  • In-shower exfoliation: While in the shower, use an exfoliating brush, sponge, or glove. Apply soap or body wash and gently scrub your wet skin. Alternatively, use an exfoliating scrub directly on your body, then rinse off with warm water.

2. Shave

Shaving is an optional step, but it’s essential to do it between exfoliating and washing. Ensure your razor blades aren’t dull, as this can cause hair pulling and skin irritation. Use shaving cream or gel, lather up, and then shave.

3. Wash

After exfoliating and shaving, it’s time to wash your body. Doing this step last ensures you remove any dead skin cells, hairs or lingering products. Apply body wash (use your favourite; it’ll make you feel even better), lather, rinse and then turn off the shower.

4. Moisturise

Finish your skincare routine by moisturising to maintain your skin’s moisture and oils, keeping it hydrated. Treat yourself to your favourite body lotion. Afterwards, cleanse your face thoroughly to remove any pore-clogging elements.

How often should you take an everything shower?

Consider reserving one day per week for an everything shower. Choose a day when you have ample time to relax and fully enjoy the routine. A weekend may be most suitable – you could add it to your Sunday self-care routine.

Avoid making frequent showers an everyday part of your routine. Excessive showering can irritate your skin and strip it of natural oils, which are essential for maintaining proper moisture.

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