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With daily high temperatures in the mid-30s, it's no surprise that staying cool (and hydrated) is on everyone's minds. But keeping the heat at bay is easier said than done. High oil prices mean expensive utility bills, should you choose to switch on the air-con at home. One possibility is heading to a public pool (or the condo pool of a friend or relative) to soak there. However, that also results in needing to spend money on sunscreen to prevent sunburn. (Image: ochimax studio, Unsplash) You could also head to the mall and chill there till evening, but you'll still need to spend money on food and drinks, and perhaps a movie or two. One of the best ways of remaining cool without racking up a huge utility bill is taking more showers. On the hottest days, a third shower may be needed to wash away the humidity and whatever oils have accumulated on your face and scalp. But is taking more showers harmful? (Image: Ashim D'Silva, Unsplash) What medical science says Since I'm not a doctor, I can only share what advice I've come across on medical websites. What I've learned thus far is this: Our skin needs balance in order to do its job. Too much or too little moisture are both not good. Overdo the moisturising or lotion and you end up all gooey, which is equally uncomfortable and may end up promoting bacterial growth. Dry skin, on the other hand, makes it easy for bacteria and other contaminants to penetrate. I learnt this from my dermatologist, who explained that this was the cause of those red, itchy bumps that sometimes appear on my hands and legs after a winter holiday. (Image: Seth Doyle, Unsplash) What we know so far Allowing sweat and bacteria to accumulate by not showering enough is no good. But if you take too many showers - even cold ones - you'll eventually strip away your skin's moisture and natural oils, which could lead to it becoming dry and irritated. I've never taken more than three showers a day – even on the absolute 'hell' days featuring clear skies and no wind. I recall that by the third shower, my skin already feeling taut and 'grippy'. Unless I plan to go cycling in this weather (unlikely), I think my standard two showers a day is enough. But everyone is built differently. Those with oilier skin and/or who tend to sweat more may take three or even four showers a day without drying out their skin. So, how many showers one needs ultimately depends on the individual. The important thing is to maintain a balance while trying to remain cool in an increasingly warming climate. – Jeremy (Main image: Seth Doyle, Unsplash)