As a family doctor, I talk to my patients about everything, and I mean EVERYTHING. This includes how to bathe and wash properly. To this end, some of my hygiene videos have gone viral, so I wanted to share 5 Body Parts You Aren't Washing Enough with you!
1. Belly Button:
When was the last time you washed your belly button? If it was recently, you're far ahead of the game! If it's been a while, please keep reading. As a family doctor, I find that people don't always wash their belly buttons. (This finding has been corroborated by my surgeon-friends who say that they, too, find lots of crud and gross stuff in belly buttons.)
This is important not only for hygiene purposes but health purposes. If you don't clean your belly button you can get infections and other health problems in that area. So, the first body part that requires a mention is the belly button. If you want some tips on how to wash your belly button, watch here.
2. Behind Your Ears
We spend a lot of time cleaning the inside of our ears (which is a topic in and of itself), but don't forget to wash behind your ears, at the top of your ears, and the ear lobe as well as the ear crease. Why? Because these areas can get dirty fast. Just take 2 fingers, rub these areas and sniff. Does it smell? (I know this is gross) If so, you need to wash there more.
3. Fingernails
You know about the importance of hand washing but do you know that it's important to clean under your nails as well? Dirt and debris trapped under fingernails can transmit infection and cause problems if not regularly cleaned. Some people use a nail brush but there are other tools to help. The most important thing is that you clean this area appropriately. (And for tips on how to properly wash your hands, watch here.)
4. Legs
Do you specifically wash your legs? I ask this for a specific reason. Some people don't wash their legs (with a wash towel) and some people do. I have to be honest, I'm on "team wash." Which team are you on?
5. Bottom (Butt)
It's not good enough to simply let water and soap wash over your body. You need to specifically wash it. So, this brings me to the butt. Please don't just let soapy water run down your bottom and call it a day. Please get a wash towel, and soap and wash your bottom properly. This is very important. For more details on how to do this, watch below:
There are many other body parts you should make sure you're washing (under folds, back of neck and knees, toes, etc) but these are just some to get you started. Please leave a comment and let me know your thoughts about body parts that need to be washed- and if you're already washing them!
Best,
Dr. Jen
Dr. Jen Caudle is a board-certified Family Physician, Associate Professor at Rowan University, tv health expert, and video creator. Sign up to receive Dr. Jen's Daily Health Tips to get daily emails (Mon-Fri) with health information you can use to live a healthier life. Follow her on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.