Are You Forgetting to Wash These Body Parts? Probably

Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for overall health and well-being. However, despite our best efforts when scrubbing up, certain body parts often get neglected during our daily showers. Overlooking these areas can lead to dirt, bacteria, and odor buildup which can, in turn, lead to dermatological issues such as acne, dermatitis, or complicated fungal infections. Below, we explore which body parts are commonly overlooked, how to effectively cleanse them, and the best tools to incorporate into your shower routine.

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Behind the Ears

The delicate skin behind the ears is prone to accumulating sweat, oils, and dirt, yet it’s frequently forgotten during showers. To clean this area thoroughly, use a gentle soap or cleanser and massage away any buildup with your fingers. A soft washcloth can also help scrub tricky spots.

Underarms

Despite being a prime location for sweat glands, underarms are often given a cursory wash in the shower. Ensure proper cleansing by using a body wash specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Don’t forget to scrub gently with a loofah or exfoliating glove to remove dead skin cells and prevent odor that can easily build up in these warm, moist areas.

Feet

Our feet endure a lot of wear and tear throughout the day, yet they’re commonly overlooked during showers. Pay special attention to the soles, heels, and spaces between toes. Use a pumice stone or foot scrub to remove dead skin and calluses, followed by a moisturizing foot cream to keep skin soft and hydrated.

Back

Hand washing your back can be challenging unless you have a specialized tool or someone to help you. Invest in a long-handled body brush or loofah to reach those tricky spots. Alternatively, use a gentle body wash with a washcloth wrapped around your hand to cleanse hard-to-reach areas.

Belly Button

While we scrub our stomachs in the shower, many of us ignore our belly buttons. DesBelly buttons are tiny traps for dirt, dead skin, and sweat, and buildup can lead to an infection. (And a less-than-pleasant odor.) To clean your belly button, use a washcloth, warm water, and mild soap to clean around and inside. Make sure to dry your belly button thoroughly to prevent bacteria growth.

Under Fingernails

Now more than ever, we know the importance of washing our hands — but our fingernails are another story. They are hotbeds for germs, bacteria, and infection. Use an orangewood stick to remove dirt, then scrub your hands with soap and water. To take this cleanse one step further, soak your hands in a solution of equal parts water and apple cider vinegar for 20 minutes before washing again with soap and water. This method can also be used for your toenails.

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