Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for our overall health and well-being. However, myths surrounding such habits could lead to ineffective practice of hygiene or even result in harm. Many such myths have a good hold over our culture and we have accepted them as being valid without questioning their merits. From how often we need to wash our hair to whether we have to take a shower each day, these myths can affect the routines of people without their even noticing. Let’s debunk ten common hygiene myths that you should avoid believing, empowering you to make informed choices for your health.
10 Most Common Hygiene Myths Believed By Most People
1. Daily Showers Are Essential
Most people think that it is an essential activity to take a shower every day. However, dermatologists argue that for most individuals, every other day of showering is alright. Over-showering steals your skin’s natural oils, and it gets dried with irritation. Even the daily shower can derange the microbiome that protects your skin from various infections. Let your skin be your guide. Keep your shower frequency one degree lower if your skin does not require daily scrubbing and you do not stay active all through the day. A customized approach will keep the skin healthy without over-washing.
Source- Unsplash
2. You Have To Wash Your Hair Daily
Not everyone’s hair can be washed every day, especially if it is curly or coarse. Over-washing will strip away the natural oils in your hair causing dry and brittle strands. You have to find out how often you should wash your hair according to the hair type. Most people find it comfortable to wash hair every 2-3 days. This will keep moisture, and a healthy scalp condition, and give your hair the look of being full of life and vibrant. The perfect balance will bring out your hair’s natural shine and vitality.
3. Antiperspirants Cause Cancer
A lot of people believe that antiperspirants, specifically aluminum, cause cancer. Several studies have been conducted on this matter, but by consensus of opinion among health practitioners, there is no scientific proof for this statement. It is very important to choose products that keep you comfortable and well-informed. Many antiperspirants have been tested adequately in safety and efficacy so you can use them with confidence. Knowing what is in your personal care products makes better choices.
4. Do not Flush Toilet Paper
Other cultures teach people not to flush toilet paper because they do not know that it does, so they send it in the garbage. But toilet paper breaks down well in water. You can flush it out safely. Any other product thrown into the toilet causes clogging in the pipes. If it is just biodegradable paper products, then it saves your pipes and saves you from bad plumbing situations. You must observe your local waste disposal regulations to keep hygiene in your homes.
5. More Soap Doesn’t Mean Cleaner
Excessive use of soap doesn’t mean better cleanliness. In fact, soap in excess amounts may also deposit residues on your body and may irritate them. A small amount should suffice for good cleaning purposes. The objective of the exercise is to rinse in detail where dirt and bacteria accumulate. Having proper soap for your skin improves cleaning, plus protects your skin, so quality is always superior to quantity in products meant to care for the skin.
6. Your Feet Do Not Require Deodorant
Most believe deodorant is a function of the armpits, but your feet would appreciate having it as well. Sweaty feet tend to cause odor, but using a foot deodorant will keep them fresh throughout the day. Another option would be foot powders, which absorb moisture and fight bacteria. Good foot hygiene is best for anyone who has to sit or stand for the most significant portion of their time. People should, however, maintain their healthy feet and keep them at their optimum state to prevent serious problems like athletes’ feet. Healthy foot care, therefore, prevents athletes and keeps them feeling great.
7. Toothpaste on Pimples Works Wonders
The common home remedy among acne-prone people would be the application of toothpaste to the pimple. This might seem to have an effect due to its drying property, but the irritation associated with the use of toothpaste on the affected area worsens in the long term. Instead, one should stick to products that are specifically prescribed for the treatment of acne. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, among other OTC creams, are better options and safer choices. Skincare should therefore be approached with caution towards clearer, healthier skin over time.
8. Your Laundry Basket Is Clean
You get drenched clothes because the interval has been too long outside. The mentality is, okay wait for a while then get clothes back in the house. Well, they reproduce bacteria when you get close to them, then the germs spread to your body. You therefore should ensure that both the clothes and clothes laundry basket are washed normally. It helps in the habit of doing your laundry regularly and reduces any risk that bacteria or smell does to freshen up a home environment. Cleanliness starts with good habits.
9. Menstrual Products Only Need to Be Changed Occasionally
Many women believe that the sanitary pad or tampon lasts longer than it should. To avoid leakage and infection, sanitary pads need to be changed after 4-8 hours, depending upon the flow. It brings quite serious health issues if neglected. Appropriate knowledge of one’s body requirements during its cycle is the most important hygiene and comfort factor. Therefore, it will ensure safety and risk of complications while experiencing it by keeping track of your menstrual health.
10. You Can Skip Washing Hands if They Look Clean
The wrong assumption is that visibly clean hands are safe to forgo washing. Germs and bacteria cannot be seen with the naked eye. The diseases can be prevented through regular hand-washing, focusing more on before mealtimes and after the use of a bathroom. For example, frequent washing of hands, such as for 20 seconds, can make a difference in controlling the spreading of germs. Hand hygiene is a personal health measure that must never be neglected.
Source- Unsplash
Final Words
Understand what lies behind hygiene myths so that you will be able to take good care of your health. After clearing up the above misconceptions, you might find yourself maintaining even better hygiene practices and taking better care of your overall health. It is always important to obtain information from a valid source and consult your physician when you are in any doubt. Being aware puts you in a position where you can focus more on improving your hygiene routine and subsequently achieving a healthier life. Empower yourself with knowledge and then share it with other people to help them improve their hygiene in pursuit of better health for themselves and their community.
References
https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-beauty/common-hygiene-myths-you-shouldnt-believe
https://www.onemedical.com/blog/healthy-living/7-hygiene-myths-you-should-stop-believing
https://www.mountelizabeth.com.sg/health-plus/article/10-health-myths-debunked
