About a year ago, after reading some material (I think posted on HN) I decided to stop using soap on my body, for the most part.<p>I have long hair, and I&#x27;ve struggled with dandruff in the past, so washing it with shampoo and conditioner seemed to be the only way for a long time.<p>But for the last year, I get up and do a relatively quick, hot shower.  I use a tiny bit of soap between my legs.  For the rest of my body, and especially my scalp, I vigorously scrub with my hands and fingernails.<p>My hair, scalp and skin have never been more healthy.  I produce notably less body odor now.<p>So...I have been and remain a clean person.  But now I&#x27;m not using substances that&#x27;ll kill most everything on the surface of my body.  And this has been a very good thing.