She Strengthens

Unlock the Power of Personal Hygiene

When it comes to personal hygiene, many of us think it’s just about looking and smelling fresh. But the truth is, good hygiene practices are essential for our overall health and wellbeing. In fact, they can even influence how others perceive us.

The Importance of Handwashing

Our hands are breeding grounds for germs, and washing them regularly is crucial to prevent the spread of illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend washing your hands:

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick
• After using the toilet
• After changing diapers or helping a child in the bathroom
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
• After handling pet food or pet treats
• After touching garbage

To wash your hands effectively, follow these 5 steps:

1. Wet your hands with clean water.
2. Turn off the water and apply soap.
3. Rub your hands together with the soap, including palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and under your nails.
4. Scrub for at least 20 seconds.
5. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
6. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air-dry them.

Showering: It’s Not Just About Looking Good

Showering daily is essential for maintaining good hygiene. Aim to shower once a day, using warm water and fragrance-free products if you have sensitive skin. Focus on areas that need it most, such as your face, armpits, and groin. After showering, pat dry and moisturize your skin.

Nail Care: Don’t Forget the Little Things

Keeping your nails clean and short can prevent infection. Follow these tips:

• Keep your nails short.
• Scrub the underside of your nails with soap and water every time you wash your hands.
• Use a nail brush for extra cleaning power.
• Clean nail grooming tools before use.
• Choose nail salons that sterilize all tools.
• Don’t bite or chew your nails.
• Don’t cut your cuticles — they act as barriers to prevent infection.
• Never rip or bite a hangnail. Instead, clip it with a clean, sanitized nail trimmer.

Oral Hygiene: A Healthy Smile is a Happy Smile

Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste can prevent cavities and gum disease. Floss daily to clear away bacteria, food, and plaque between your teeth.

When You’re Sick, Hygiene is Even More Important

If you’re already sick, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to prevent spreading illness to others. Always cover coughs and sneezes, wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your face.

Teaching Kids Good Hygiene Habits

Teaching children good hygiene habits from a young age can prevent frequent outbreaks of viruses and other communicable illnesses. Encourage them to:

• Brush teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste after meals and at bedtime.
• Floss daily.
• Bathe regularly to remove dirt, oil, sweat, and bacteria.
• Wash hair once or twice a week.
• Wash hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
• Trim and clean fingernails and toenails regularly.

The Consequences of Poor Hygiene

Poor personal hygiene can lead to a range of unpleasant and even serious health issues, including:

• Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK)
• Athlete’s foot
• Body lice
• Chronic diarrhea
• Dental caries
• Head lice
• Hot tub rash (pseudomonas dermatitis/folliculitis)
• Pinworms
• Pubic lice (“crabs”)
• Ringworm (tinea)
• Scabies
• Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa)
• Trachoma

Make Hygiene a Habit

Establishing good hygiene habits takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the long run. Decide when showering fits into your schedule and make it part of your morning or evening routine. Set reminders to brush and floss until it becomes second nature. Remember, washing your hands takes just 20 to 30 seconds, showers should be under 10 minutes, and brushing your teeth takes 2 minutes. You have plenty of time to fit hygiene into your busy day!