1. What is the difference between shower gel and shower cream?
While shower gels and shower creams serve the same general purpose—to cleanse the skin—they have subtle differences in texture and formulation. Thann Shower gels have a lighter, more gel-like consistency. They're also formulated to be more effective at removing excess oil from the skin, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types. Made with 3 different moisturising oils, Thann's Shower Cream, on the other hand, are creamier and more moisturizing, making them a better choice for those with dry or sensitive skin.
2. Can I use shower gel as a shampoo?
Technically, you can use shower gel as a shampoo, but it's not recommended for regular use. Shower gels and shampoos are formulated differently; shampoos are designed to clean your hair and scalp while maintaining their natural oils, while shower gels are better suited for skin. Using a shower gel on your hair could strip it of moisture and leave it feeling dry and frizzy. However, if you're in a pinch, a moisturizing shower gel with ingredients like rice bran oil, as found in THANN's Eden Breeze Shower Gel, may be less harsh on your hair than traditional soap or detergent-based shower gels.
3. Is shower gel better for dry skin or oily skin?
The suitability of a shower gel for dry or oily skin depends on the formulation and ingredients. Shower gels with ingredients that regulate sebum production, like orange nutmeg in THANN's Aromatic Wood Shower Gel, are excellent for oily skin. For dry skin, look for formulations that contain nourishing oils such as rice bran oil and humectants to maintain skin hydration. THANN’s range, enriched with rice bran oil, makes it a great choice for dry skin as well because of its moisturizing properties, leaving your skin feeling soft but not greasy.
4. How much shower gel should I use per shower?
A common mistake is using too much shower gel. Usually, a quarter-sized amount is more than sufficient for cleansing your body. Too much product can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness. To make the most of your shower gel, use a loofah or shower puff to lather it up, spreading it more effectively across your skin. This allows you to use less product while still enjoying the fragrance and benefits of the gel. The light and gentle lather produced by THANN's Oriental Essence Shower Gel with kaffir lime and lemongrass helps create a more luxurious and aromatic experience for those with sensitive skin.
5. Does shower gel expire, and how can I tell?
Yes, shower gels do expire. They typically have a shelf life of around 2 to 3 years when unopened and 6 to 12 months once opened. The expiration date is often printed on the bottle. Over time, the active ingredients may degrade, and the product may lose its effectiveness or start to smell off. It's important to store your shower gel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to extend its shelf life. In general, if you notice any change in texture, color, or scent, it’s best to stop using it.
6. What are the benefits of using shower gel over soap?
Shower gels offer several benefits over traditional bar soaps. First, they are more hygienic since you only dispense what you need, reducing bacterial growth compared to a bar of soap that sits in water. Additionally, shower gels often include more complex and skin-nourishing ingredients like rice bran oil and essential oils. THANN's shower gels, for instance, feature natural essential oils like sandalwood and orange nutmeg, providing aromatherapy benefits that help elevate your shower experience beyond simple cleansing.
7. How does shower gel work to clean the skin?
Shower gel works by emulsifying oils and dirt on the surface of your skin, allowing them to be rinsed away with water. The surfactants in the gel lower the surface tension of water, helping it mix with the oils and dirt on your skin so they can be easily removed. In addition to cleaning, shower gels can also hydrate and soothe the skin when formulated with nourishing ingredients like cucumber extract or rice bran oil. THANN's Aromatic Wood Shower Gel, for example, uses essential oils and plant-based ingredients that not only cleanse but also nourish and moisturize the skin.
8. Can shower gel help with body odor?
Yes, shower gels can help with body odor, particularly if they contain antibacterial or odor-neutralizing ingredients like tea tree oil or citrus-based oils. Ingredients like kaffir lime and lemongrass essential oils in THANN’s Oriental Essence Shower Gel are great for not only eliminating body odor but also uplifting your mood with a refreshing scent. If you struggle with body odor, choose a shower gel that contains natural essential oils known for their antibacterial properties, and make sure to cleanse thoroughly in areas prone to sweat, like underarms and feet.
