By SHANIA OBRIEN FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

Published: 03:21 GMT, 12 February 2025 | Updated: 03:21 GMT, 12 February 2025

Millions of people are making a critical mistake after using the toilet – and it’s one that could lead to serious health issues over time.

Dr Evan Goldstein, a leading anal surgeon, says ‘traditional wiping’ with toilet paper is causing unnecessary damage and is concerned about the popularity of wet wipes.

Speaking on the HuffPost ‘Am I Doing It Wrong?’, Dr Goldstein warned against using wet wipes and explained why wiping aggressively with any form of toilet paper can be dangerous.

The doctor said the skin around the anus is incredibly delicate, and constant wiping with toilet paper can lead to irritation, small tears, and long-term damage.

It’s a problem that he sees far too often in his clinic, and it’s only getting worse as more people rely on wet wipes for a ‘cleaner’ finish.

‘They are so terrible – not only for the environment, but for your hole,’ he said.

‘There’s so many companies out there throwing wipes and I think they should all be banned. I see 90 people a week [in my office], and I would say one-third of all the people coming through are coming in from wet wipe-induced issues.’

According to Dr Goldstein, wet wipes disrupt the delicate microbiome of the area, which can lead to bacterial infections and painful skin conditions.

Dr Evan Goldstein, a leading anal surgeon, has revealed that traditional wiping is causing a wave of unnecessary damage

‘Think about it – we have good bacteria, we have bad bacteria, but they are in homeostasis. They are in equilibrium. Wet wipes f**k that in a really bad way. 

‘I see ridiculous dermatitis and bacterial infection [in my patients]. Now that they’ve messed up that microbiome, it’s causing so many problems.’

They can also lead to worsened hemorrhoids, fissures and fungi growth.

Instead, Dr Goldstein is a huge advocate for bidets, saying they provide a gentle yet thorough clean without causing irritation.

If that isn’t an option, you can also hop in the shower for a quick rinse.

But whatever you do, make sure the area is dry afterwards – as excess moisture can cause problems.

If you absolutely must use toilet paper, the doctor suggested blotting instead of wiping.

He even suggested doing this in a standing position which reduces the pressure on the area and minimises irritation.

Experts from Healthdirect Australia also advise against using soaps in the area, as they can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness and itching.

Instead, a simple rinse with water is best – or, if necessary, a soap-free cleanser.

For babies and kids, wet wipes are a go-to for thousands of parents the world over. 

Experts say while it’s fine to rely on them and use them gently on children when they’re young, it’s extremely important to choose brands free of nasties like parabens, phthalates and phenoxyethanol. 

So, in simple terms, if you have to reach for a wet wipe at any age steer clear of fragrances and alcohol and always ensure the area is completely dry before going about your day.

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I’m a colorectal surgeon and there’s a huge toilet mistake millions are making that I’m very worried about

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