James Hamblin: Should we all stop showering?

<p>We know how important good hygiene is. It protects us from viral infections and diseases, but what if, by washing, soaping and scrubbing, we’re actually damaging our health?</p><p><br></p><p>Dr James Hamblin, journalist and professor of public health, stopped showering five years ago. In his new book, <em>Clean </em>(£16.99, Bodley Head), he reveals how our skin is affected by the products we apply. The overuse of soap and cosmetic products – sold to us with the promise of caring for our skin – might even be causing some of the ailments we’re using them to try to treat.</p><p><br></p><p>It hasn’t always been this way. Historically, humans have gone from seeing bathing as something vaguely sinful and reserved for the wealthy, to a daily necessity that, if neglected, is a huge social blunder.</p><p><br></p><p>According to James, it’s time for a whole new perspective on cleaning. One that starts with a personal reflection of our relationship with our body.</p><p><br></p><p>Let us know what you think of the episode with a review or a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts.</p><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Subscribe</strong>&nbsp;to the&nbsp;<em>Science Focus Podcast</em>&nbsp;on these services:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acast.com/science-focus-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Acast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/science-focus-podcast/id1296673906?mt=2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iTunes</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/immediate-media-2/science-focus-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Stitcher</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://rss.acast.com/science-focus-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">RSS</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://overcast.fm/itunes1296673906/science-focus-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Overcast</a></li><li><a href="http://sciencefocus.com/the-human-body/james-hamblin-on-showering-soap-and-public-health/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the full transcription</a>&nbsp;[this