Most people don’t think twice about keeping shower items in the bathtub or in a shower caddy. Which makes sense, because who really wants to step out of the shower halfway through to grab a bar of soap?
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It’s convenient to have shower supplies within reach, but one item does not belong there. Skincare professionals tell Parade people often make this common shower mistake, and it can be costly, both to your health and your wallet.
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The Item You Should Never Leave in the Shower
Keeping your razors in your shower or even sitting out on a wet sink makes it a breeding ground for bacteria. Dr. Hannah Kopelman, DO, a dermatologist at Kopelman Hair Restoration, says it’s a habit that even she finds hard to break.
“I’ll admit, it’s tempting to just leave your razor in the shower for convenience, but it’s really not a good idea,” she explains.
Keeping razor blades in the bathroom makes it more likely to rust faster, warns Dr. Arjun Dupati, MD, a dermatologist at Apollo Dermatology. Oxygen, combined with the lingering moisture in the bathroom, creates an environment that corrodes the blades at an accelerated pace and makes you more prone to nicks and cuts.
Just as concerning is the 4.9 million bacteria researchers have also found on a wet razor handle. That, combined with contaminated blades, have been known to irritate the skin and cause infections. “I’ve had patients come in with inflamed razor bumps or folliculitis, and more often than not, it’s linked to poor razor hygiene,” Dr. Kopelman explains.
Dr. Dupati says the moist environment is a hotbed for bacteria to multiply and thrive. Though it’s not just with hot showers. He says the moist environment from both hot and cold showers increases bacteria that linger on razors.
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What Dermatologists Recommend You Do Instead
After using your razor, Dr. Kopelman recommends rinsing the razor off thoroughly and then drying it off with a towel. You’ll then want to store it somewhere dry and outside the bathroom. If you want to keep it in the bathroom, place it in a cabinet or a drawer. “It keeps the blades sharper longer and cuts down on skin issues,” she adds.
To further prevent skin infections from lingering bacteria, Dr. Dupati says to apply after-shave lotion and a gentle moisturizer after drying off.
Related: The No. 1 Shower Habit to Break, According to Doctors
And on that note, how often should you replace your razor? If you’re using a reusable razor, Dr. Dupati and Dr. Kopelman advise changing the blade after five to seven shaves. Though you’ll want to throw it out sooner if you notice rust, the blade is pulling on your hair or if it feels rough on your skin.
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Sources
- Hannah Kopelman, DO, is a dermatologist at Kopelman Hair Restoration.
- Arjun Dupati, MD, is a dermatologist at Apollo Dermatology
- Microban Research Finds Nearly 5 Million Bacteria on Single Wet Razor Handle. Infection Control Today.