The "Everything Shower" Routine Explained
You have probably seen the trend dominating social media over the last year. The “everything shower” is exactly what it sounds like. It is an extensive, multi-step bathing ritual designed to leave you feeling completely clean and deeply relaxed. Here is exactly how to build this ultimate self-care routine.
What Exactly Is an Everything Shower?
An everything shower is not a quick five-minute rinse before work. It is a dedicated self-care session that usually takes one to two hours from start to finish. Popularized on TikTok, where the hashtag has billions of views, this routine is typically reserved for a day off. Most people schedule their everything shower for Sunday to prep for the week ahead.
The goal is to tackle every single grooming and hygiene task in one single session. This includes hair treatments, deep exfoliation, shaving, and intense moisturization. Instead of spreading these chores out over several days, you do them all at once.
Phase 1: Pre-Shower Preparation
A proper everything shower actually begins before you turn on the water. The pre-shower phase focuses on treatments that need time to soak in.
- Dry Brushing: Many routines start with dry brushing. You use a firm, natural-bristle brush on dry skin, brushing upward toward your heart. This removes dead skin cells and promotes lymphatic drainage. You can find highly rated dry brushes from brands like EcoTools for around $10.
- Scalp Care: Next, address your scalp. If your scalp is dry or flaky, massage a specialized oil into your roots. The Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp and Hair Strengthening Oil is a massive favorite right now, retailing for about $10.
- Hair Masking: Apply a bond-building treatment or deep conditioner to your damp hair. The Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector or the K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask are top choices for repairing damage. You typically leave these treatments in for 15 to 30 minutes while you gather your towels and set up your bathroom.
Phase 2: The Main Event
Once your pre-shower treatments have had time to sit, it is time to get in the water. Temperature matters here. Start with warm water to open your pores, but avoid scalding hot water. Very hot water strips your skin of natural oils and causes severe dryness.
Wash and Treat Your Hair
Start by rinsing out your pre-shower hair treatments. For an everything shower, you want to double-cleanse your hair. Use a clarifying shampoo first to remove product buildup. The Ouai Detox Shampoo is a popular option that uses apple cider vinegar to deeply clean the scalp. Follow up with your regular hydrating shampoo.
After rinsing, apply a heavy conditioner or a hydrating hair mask. The Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask works well for most hair types. Clip your hair up and let the mask sit while you focus on your body.
Exfoliate and Shave
With your hair clipped out of the way, move on to body exfoliation. This step removes dead skin, prevents ingrown hairs, and preps your skin for shaving. The Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrubs are incredibly popular because they cost under $10 and come in dozens of scents. If you struggle with rough bumps or strawberry legs, try the First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub. It contains chemical exfoliants like lactic acid.
Once you have rinsed the scrub off, you can shave. Always use a fresh, sharp razor. Apply a thick shaving cream or oil. The EOS Shea Better Shave Cream provides a great barrier between the razor and your skin.
The Final Wash
The last step in the shower is washing your body and your face. You always want to do this step last. Hair conditioner leaves a heavy film on your skin that can cause body breakouts. Washing your body last removes that residue. Use a hydrating body wash like the Naturium The Glow Maker.
Finally, wash your face with a gentle cleanser. The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a safe, dermatologist-recommended option. Turn the water temperature down to cool for the final 30 seconds. This helps seal your hair cuticles and provides a quick burst of energy.
Phase 3: Post-Shower Aftercare
The routine does not end when you step onto the bath mat. The post-shower phase is all about locking in moisture.
Pat your skin dry with a towel, but leave it slightly damp. This helps your lotions absorb better. Apply a rich body moisturizer from the neck down. If you want a luxury scent, the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is famous for its warm vanilla and pistachio fragrance. For maximum hydration on a budget, use a thick layer of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream or classic Aquaphor.
Next, complete your standard facial skincare routine. Apply your serums, moisturizers, and eye creams. Wrap your hair in a microfiber towel to reduce frizz, or apply a leave-in conditioner like the Color Wow Dream Coat before blow-drying.
To finish the ritual, put on clean pajamas or a plush robe. A popular choice is the UGG Marlow Double-Face Fleece Robe.
Setting the Right Mood
The environment is just as important as the products you use. You want your bathroom to feel like a spa.
- Lighting: Turn off the harsh overhead lights. Bring in a small lamp or light a few candles. A Diptyque Baies candle or a Bath and Body Works 3-wick candle can instantly change the room’s atmosphere.
- Music: Bring a waterproof Bluetooth speaker into the bathroom. Play a relaxing acoustic playlist or your favorite podcast.
- Warm Towels: If you have a towel warmer, use it. If not, toss your towel in the dryer for ten minutes before you start your shower.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I take an everything shower?
You should only do an everything shower once a week or once every two weeks. Deep exfoliation and clarifying shampoos are too harsh for daily use. Over-washing will strip your skin and hair of necessary natural oils.
How long does an everything shower take?
The entire process usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes. This includes 20 minutes for pre-shower prep, 30 to 40 minutes in the actual shower, and 20 minutes for post-shower moisturizing and hair care.
Do I need expensive products to do this?
No. While luxury products like Olaplex or Sol de Janeiro are popular, you can complete this entire routine with drugstore brands. Target and Walmart carry highly effective dupes. Brands like Dove, CeraVe, EOS, and Tree Hut offer incredible results for under $15 per item. The focus is on the thoroughness of the steps, not the price tag of the bottles.