Man goes viral for saying "we should only be showering once a week"

In an opinion piece published in The Guardian UK, Donnachadh McCarthy argued that showering everyday does not benefit anyone except companies that make and market soaps and shampoos.

He says he only bathed once a week when he was a child in the 60's but today, not having a bath daily is tantamount to dirtiness and he blames out "falsely imposed cultural norms" for our all-too-frequent showers.

"The only real beneficiaries of over-frequent baths and showers are the companies that make and market soaps and shampoos," he argues.

McCarthy says he's now down to one shower a week and "a daily sink-wash that includes my underarms and privates."

McCarthy points to the water waste, electricity use, and carbon emissions perpetrated by daily showers as proof. "The daily bath or shower…is terrible for the environment and our bank balances," he says.

But if his environmental concerns aren't convincing, how about how bad daily showering can be for your skin?

McCarthy says he has a friend who needs medical creams after damaging his skin with too much soap. He claims soap removes oils and necessary bacteria, causing dermatitis, and can make babies' skin more sensitive.

Admitting there are times when more washing is necessary, he says: "Of course, if you are being intimate with somebody, whether it is your partner or a doctor who is examining you, it is nicer for both of you if you are fresh and clean. But that can just involve a quick sink-wash."

Nigerians who are always using sponge and soap everyday should read the full article on The Guardian.

READ: Comedian goes viral after bathing NAKED with his 2-year old daughter