Water, absorbed through bathing, will hydrate skin but will rapidly be lost to evaporation unless a topical occlusive agent is applied to prevent moisture loss through the skin. The frequency of bathing (at least 5 times or more weekly) is more important than the mode of bathing (tub vs. shower) in effectively treating dry skin. In addition to the elements critical to prevention of dry skin through bathing practices, environmental humidity and fluid intake must be therapeutic.