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Teenage Hygiene Tips

Teenagers don't always realize the sudden importance of hygiene awareness, but those who fail to keep their developing bodies properly cleaned are at risk for infection, rashes and even public ridicule from their peers for being dirty. To ensure your teen does not fall victim to poor hygiene habits, educate him on the basics to help him make the right decisions regarding cleanliness into his adult years.

  1. Shower Daily

    • Children in elementary school rarely shower daily, nor do they need to according to Tanya Remer Altmann, M.D., a pediatrician and author. But once the teen years approach, children get considerably more active, and daily showering becomes a vital practice. Remer recommends using a mild soap and concentrating particularly on important areas like face, hands, feet, underarms and genital region. Don't forget washing under fingernails, as that area tends to attract dirt and other harmful bacteria.

    Shampoo Hair Frequently

    • Unlike showering, your teen may not need to wash her hair every day but should get in the habit of doing it at least every other day. Each strand of hair is equipped with its own sebaceous (or oil) gland, which serves to keep hair shiny and waterproof. During puberty, however, these glands generate extra amounts of oil, so without frequent shampoo usage, hair quickly takes on a greasy appearance. Teens should not scrub their scalps too hard when applying shampoo, as this only increases the probability of irritation.

    Brush Teeth Twice Daily

    • Teens may not realize the importance of oral hygiene enough to develop sound teeth brushing habits, but it's critical that they brush twice every day. This is especially true if your teen is particularly fond of sugar-filled or acidic drinks like sodas or energy drinks. Dentists highly recommend brushing once in the morning and once in the evening before bed, as is daily flossing. Improper dental hygiene may result in tooth decay or other oral issues and will definitely result in bad breath.

    Change Clothes Daily

    • Younger children may wear the same outfit repeatedly without washing the clothes in between uses, but teens must learn to get out of that practice. Along with daily showering, acclimate your teen to throw all her clothes into the dirty pile after wearing them for one day. This means every article of clothing, especially socks and underwear, although shirts and pants need to be changed frequently, too. Never allow your teen to put on the same outfit previously worn after a shower.

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