Good hygiene helps maintain good health. A body properly cleansed and groomed lessens the risk of passing on and contracting certain illnesses. Good hygiene also makes you more appealing to others and more socially acceptable. Using a combination of different kinds of hygiene promotes health and cleanliness in a well-rounded way.
Body Hygiene for Teenagers and Adults
Body hygiene involves showering every day and using deodorant or antiperspirant to control body odor that manifests from bacteria caused by sweat. Deodorant and antiperspirants are used under the arms. Clean clothes are another important part of body hygiene. Because many sweat glands are located in the bottoms of the feet and in the armpits, apparel such a shirts, blouses and socks should be changed every day to prevent smelling unpleasant. Wash oily hair more often with a shampoo designed for oily hair. Shampoo dry hair less frequently, using a shampoo made for dry hair. Although not necessary, women like to shave their legs and underarms as part of a hygiene regimen. Men find it necessary to shave their face. Douching is a form of hygiene that involves cleansing the vagina with internal cleansing solutions. Doctors do not advise douching because this practice can alter the natural state of the vagina and leave it vulnerable to infection. Another important part of hygiene is facial skin care, as acne sometimes manifests when facial skin is not properly cared for. Good hygiene includes washing the face two times a day with a mild cleanser.
Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene means care and cleansing of the teeth and the gums. Girlshealth.gov, a website maintained by the Office on Women's Health, recommends brushing your teeth at least two times a day (two minutes each time) with a toothbrush less than four months old. Brush after meals for good oral hygiene. Floss between teeth to remove food particles, and visit a dentist two times a year. Do not consume foods that contain sugar and starch, and eat well-balanced meals. Seniors who wear dentures should clean their false teeth at night before retiring and should make sure their dentures fit well in the mouth.
Hand Hygiene
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, proper hand cleansing provides protection against germs that can cause illness. Effective hand washing involves immersing the hands under warm water, spreading soap all over them and leaving the soap on for at least 20 seconds before thoroughly rinsing it off. The best way to dry hands involves letting them air dry under a hand dryer or blotting them dry with a clean paper towel. When you do not have access to soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains alcohol. Wash your hands prior to touching food and after using the toilet. Hands should also be washed after touching anything unsanitary, as well as before and after dressing an open wound.
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