The ‘Everything Shower’: Why We’re Romanticising Our Routines

If you’ve ever found yourself turning a simple shower into an hours-long self-care event, you’re not alone. Welcome to the world of Everything Showers, a ritual that has been taking over the internet for years, and surprisingly didn’t start on TikTok.

Think deep conditioning treatments, full-body exfoliation, multi-step skincare, shaving, scalp-massaging, and finishing with luxe body oils and body sprays. It’s relaxing, aesthetic, indulgent, and a much needed escape from everyday stress.

@juhcobo my everything shower routine 🩷🌸🫧 #cleangirlaesthetic #lifestyleaesthetic #fyp #skincare ♬ we cant be friends – chan

While everything showers feel like a TikTok born trend, their roots trace back to the golden era of beauty and lifestyle YouTube in the mid-2010s. Influencers like Zoella, and Niki and Gabi made routines a major aesthetic, with videos titled “Niki’s Winter Night Routine” and “My Pamper Evening Essentials”. These videos would either be silent with background music or would have a very fun talk through of every step and product used.

Like all things on the internet, Everything Showers have made a full-circle comeback on TikTok, and honestly, I’m here for it. Like yes, show me your endless collection of scented body scrubs and shower gels. A full vanilla-scented routine? Sign me up!

Okay, enough of its history, let’s get into the fun stuff. What is an Everything Shower? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like. A shower where you take care of absolutely everything. Haven’t shaved all winter? Hair need a good scrub? Time for a deep treatment? Well now is the time to do a complete reset.

 

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A Typical Everything Shower Might Include

Pre-shower Prep – Dry brushing, scalp oiling, or hair masks

Haircare – Deep conditioning, clarifying shampoo, or leave-in treatments

Bodycare – Exfoliating, shaving, body wash, and lotions

Skincare – Cleansing, serums, moisturizers, and if you’re feeling it, a face massage

The Finishing Touches – Body/Hair sprays, body oils, fluffy robes, and cozy pajamas

And of course, it’s all accompanied by a perfectly curated Spotify playlist. (Queue the Lana Del Ray, Sza, or Sabrina Carpenter)

as pleasurable as an everything shower i would like to humbly introduce the concept of a nothing shower: your second shower of the day in which you have no hygiene tasks to do at all and merely stand in the water for emotional refreshment and general spiritual cleansing purposes.

— audrey (@foldyrhands) October 13, 2023

Why Are We So Obsessed With This Trend? 

It’s a Literal Reset Button – Whether it’s after a breakup, a tough week, or just an overwhelming day, an everything shower can feel like pressing refresh on your life

Built-in Mindfulness – The long, intentional process forces you to slow down, be present, and focus on yourself without any distractions.

It’s About Control – In a chaotic world, it gives us a sense of control over our well-being. Your life may be stressful and messy, but your post-shower glowing self? Flawless.

The Psychology Behind Romanticising Self-Care?

Dopamine dressing, but for skincare  – Just like wearing a cute outfit can boost your all over mood, an extended, luxe shower and pampering routine can make you feel polished and put together. (I’m sure we all need that)

Power of Rituals – Studies have shown that self-care routines can reduce stress and increase happiness. Whether it’s a morning coffee routine or a Sunday spa night, routines create a stability that we sometimes lack in our lives.

Sensory Therapy – The warmth of the water, the scent of the body wash, the softness of a fresh towel, all these elements stimulate relaxation and signal your body that it’s time to let go of all that stress and it’s time to unwind.

@emilieleyes.hypnosis #stitch with @elysemyers why warm cozy showers feel so good #mentalhealth #anxietyrelief #depressionrelief #mentalhealthtips #stressrelief #oxytocin #psychologyfacts #neuroscience #selfsoothe ♬ original sound – Emilie Leyes • Hypnosis

How to Level Up Your Everything Shower

Curate a Shower Playlist  – Nothing is better than getting into the shower and singing along to your favourite songs, whether it’s an upbeat playlist or something with more lo-fi vibes, it’s always a great feeling.

Upgrade Your Products – A perfectly scented body scrub or a hair mask that leaves your hair as if you just left the salon will elevate your shower experience.

Extend The Post-Shower Routine – Who said it has to end there? Lounge in a soft, fluffy bathrobe, do a face mask, or change into your favourite jammies and turn something on the telly. The options are endless!

So, if you need an excuse to block an hour (or two) for some you time, consider this your sign. I know I’m taking writing this article as a sign, and if you’re not already running yourself a cozy bath or prepping for a long shower, I’ve done something totally wrong here!

Words by Emilia Cercel