As the transition takes place from an older child to a teen, there are several changes happening within the human body. Sweat glands in the armpits and genitals begin to secrete an unpleasant odor as hormone levels begin to fluctuate. Teenagers will have to wear deodorant and shower daily in order to combat odor levels and be presentable to others. It is important for parents and teens to take the right steps when it comes to teenagers being able to maintain proper personal hygiene.
Starting Young
One of the best ways to get your teen to develop good personal hygiene habits is to start teaching them responsible body care at an early age. Some kids don't like to shower or bathe daily mainly because they are too busy playing or spending time with friends and they don't want to pull away from that. Encouraging bath or shower time by implementing good smelling soaps, body wash and shampoos can help encourage cleanliness and make bath time something to look forward to. A special washcloth or shower brush can also promote kids into wanting to get cleaned up and establish an everyday routine. Making these tasks routine will carry on into the teen years and adulthood.
Learning From Observation
Kids and teens learn from observation. This means parents should also engage in regular, consistent personal hygiene practices. For girls, washing, brushing and styling hair is important for moms to do in front of their children. Taking the time to take care of yourself will reflect upon your children. How to trim nails, apply body lotion and brush teeth are all learned behaviors that many girls and teens observe from their mother or older sisters. For boys, shaving and trimming side burns can be observed from male figures in the family.
Providing the Right Tools
One of the most important things a parent or caregiver can do for their teen is to provide them with the right tools for hygiene. This means buying teenagers their own hygiene products. Razors, shaving cream, deodorant, shampoos, perfumes, nail trimmers, scissors, skin care lotion, toothbrushes should be kept in a convenient location for teenagers to use on a daily basis.
Establishing a Routine
For teenagers, establishing a hygiene routine is important. This means trying to shower at the same time each day. Some teenagers may also want to take a small bag with them so they can brush their teeth after every meal or sugary meals or apply deodorant as needed. Going to bed around the same time each night will also help keep hormone levels regulated, reducing the risk of excessive sweating and perspiration odor.
Sports and Personal Care
Many teens are physically active. This means that they may have to shower more than once a day. After sports training or excessive physical activity, keeping the body dry, fresh and clean will make teens look and feel better. Girls will also be starting their menstrual cycle. Making sure they have a consistent supply of feminine hygiene products such as tampons, panty liners and maxi pads will promote cleanliness and confidence.
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