How to build an ‘everything shower’ routine

Audio By Carbonatix

How to build an ‘everything shower’ routine

A five-minute shower gets you clean. An “everything shower” is an extended, methodical bathing session where you complete all your hygiene and self-care tasks in one glorious ritual.

The concept gained massive popularity on social media platforms with the hashtag #everythingshower amassing millions of views as people share their personalized routines. What makes this trend so meaningful isn't just getting completely refreshed but the statement it makes: you deserve time for yourself.

Below, Dove explains what an “everything shower” is and how to build a routine around it.

Benefits of an everything shower

The everything shower offers benefits that go beyond just cleanliness

• Mental reset: The ritualistic nature helps clear your mind and reduce stress
• Improved sleep: When done in the evening, the warming-then-cooling process can trigger your body's natural sleep signals
• Thorough exfoliation: Removing dead skin cells improves skin health and appearance
• Maximum hydration: The methodical application of moisturizing products ensures no area is neglected
• Efficiency: By batching all your intensive grooming tasks, you save time during the rest of the week
• Self-care commitment: It establishes a regular appointment with yourself for dedicated care

The Everything shower routine

Before your shower

Preparation makes a difference in how we experience self-care. Before you turn on the water:

1. Set the stage: Gather all your products and tools so everything is within reach
2. Set aside enough time: Ensure you won't be rushed or interrupted
3. Create ambiance: Dim the lights, light candles, or play relaxing music
4. Prep your postshower needs: Have towels, a robe, and moisturizers ready
5. Dry brush: Gently brush your skin with a natural bristle brush to boost circulation

During your Everything shower routine — step by step

Step 1: Cleanse and prepare

Begin with a warm (not hot) shower to open pores. Apply a gentle cleanser, preferably one that provides instant softness while cleansing.

For areas needing extra attention, use a body wash that brightens and exfoliates your skin.

Step 2: Exfoliate

Use a body scrub on rough areas like elbows, knees, and heels. The scrub should help gently buff away dull skin while moisturizing.

Step 3: Hair care

Shampoo your hair thoroughly, then apply a hydrating conditioner. For an extra treat, apply a serum mask for ultimate hydration.

Step 4: Shaving and detailed cleansing

Using a fresh razor and creamy shower gel will help you get a clean, silky shave. Clean under nails, behind ears, and other easily forgotten spots, then rinse out hair conditioner or mask.

Step 5: Final refresh

Consider ending with a cooler water temperature to close pores and boost circulation. For evening showers, try a moisturizing body wash with a lavender scent to prepare for sleep.

After your shower

The care continues even after you turn off the water.

1. Pat, don't rub: Gently pat skin semidry with a clean towel
2. Immediate moisture: Apply body lotion or oil while skin is still slightly damp for maximum absorption
3. Face first: Apply toner, serums, and moisturizer to your face immediately after patting dry.
4. Seal in hydration: Work methodically from top to bottom with body moisturizer
5. Hair care: Apply any leave-in treatments or styling products
6. Nail care: Finish with cuticle oil and nail treatment if desired

Making it your own

The beauty of an everything shower is that it's customizable to your needs and body. Some of us prefer a weekly ritual, while others reserve it for special occasions or when we need a mental reset.

You might emphasize different elements based on your priorities, perhaps focusing on hair treatments one time and thorough exfoliation another.

When to schedule your everything shower

While an everything shower can happen anytime, many people find that certain timing maximizes the benefits:

• Sunday evenings: Start the week feeling refreshed and prepared
• Before special events: Give yourself a confidence boost before important occasions
• Midweek reset: Break up the week when stress levels peak
• After intense workouts or outdoor activities: When you need deep cleansing
• Seasonal transitions: When your skin needs extra attention due to changing weather, or you just feel like swapping out your scents to match the seasons.

This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.