How to stay clean as your body changes as you get older? (Puberty Hygiene Basics)

You're becoming a big kid now, aren't you? We call that time puberty. During this time, your body starts to change in various ways. Sometimes your skin and scalp can become oily and oily quickly, which you can't even imagine. You can see hair starting to grow in new places on your body every day. Sometimes you sweat for no reason, you can smell new things you've never smelled before, and maybe even feel like you're smelling something. So, what do you do with these things? Don't worry, these are all normal things that happen when you're an adult. But some changes can make you a little worried and anxious. Who wants to think about smelling under their armpits, right? In this article, we'll talk about how we can stay beautiful, clean, and healthy with these things.

Does your hair get oily quickly? What can you do to get rid of oily hair?

Remember when we said that acne is caused by hormones? Those same hormones are what quickly turn your hair oily. It can feel like you've poured a bottle of oil on your head some days. Every hair in our hair has tiny oil-producing glands (sebaceous glands). These are what give your hair its shine and protect it from water. But as you get older, these oil glands start producing more oil . That's when your hair becomes more shiny, oily, and sticky. Imagine, you go to school with your hair done up in the morning, and when you come home in the evening, your hair is oily and sticky. That doesn't feel good, does it? So what do you do about it?

• Wash your hair frequently: Washing your hair every other day, or even every day, can help control this oiliness.
• Choose the right shampoo: There are many types of shampoos available in pharmacies and supermarkets. It is best to choose a shampoo that is specially formulated for oily hair .
• Shampoo properly: Wet your hair with lukewarm water (not hot water!). Take a small amount of shampoo and massage your scalp until it lathers well. Don't rub too hard! Doing so will not only reduce oiliness, but can also damage your scalp and hair.
• Conditioner only if necessary: ​​After shampooing and rinsing, you can use a conditioner if you like. However, for oily hair, it is better if the conditioner is also a ``conditioner for oily hair''. Maybe even use it only on the ends of the hair.
• Be careful with hair styling products: Some gels used to style hairGels and lotions can add more oil to your hair, making it useless no matter how well you wash your hair. So, try to choose products that are labeled "greaseless" or "oil free."

Shall we talk about sweat and body odor?

Sweat, or perspiration, is something that comes from the sweat glands that have always been on our bodies. But as you age, these glands not only become more active, but the chemicals that are added to the sweat also change, and it starts to smell a little stronger, maybe even smelly . You'll notice this most under your armpits. You may also notice a new smell coming from your legs and even your private parts. Sometimes, when you come home from playing with friends, or just when you're out and about, you might notice a smell coming from under your armpits. It can be a little embarrassing, right? So, what can you do about it?

• Bathe daily: The best way to keep your body clean is to bathe daily. Use a mild soap and lukewarm water. This will wash away the bacteria that cause body odor.
• Wear clean clothes: Wearing washed, clean clothes, socks, and underwear every day can help you stay clean and comfortable throughout the day.
• Sweat -wicking clothing: If you are someone who sweats a lot, wearing T-shirts, shirts, socks, and underwear made from natural materials like cotton will help absorb sweat better.
• Deodorant or Antiperspirant: If you're concerned about underarm odor, you can use a deodorant or a deodorant that comes with an antiperspirant.
• Deodorant covers the smell of sweat with a scent.
• Antiperspirant either reduces sweating or dries up sweat.

These come in stick, roll-on, gel, spray, and cream forms. They are available in every pharmacy and supermarket. Most brands are the same. Although there are separate versions for men and women, most often only the scent is different. Important: When choosing a deodorant, read the instructions carefully. Some are best used at night, while others say to apply in the morning.

But remember this: Not everyone needs deodorant or antiperspirant. If you think you don't smell, and you shower and wear clean clothes every day, you can probably get by without them. Advertisements say that if you don't use them, you'll lose friends and no one will date you. But don't be fooled by that. If you can keep yourself clean, that's enough.

What do you do about new hair on your body?

As you get older, it's inevitable that you'll start to grow new hair in new places. This is another part of the hormones we talked about earlier. You may want to shave the new hair. But that's entirely up to you and what you're comfortable with . Some guys like to grow a beard and mustache. Some girls choose to keep their leg and armpit hair as is. There's nothing wrong with that. If you decide to shave, keep these things in mind:

• There are several ways to shave: Whether you're a boy or a girl, there are several ways to shave. You can use a traditional razor with shaving cream or gel. Or you can use an electric razor.
• Take care of your razor: If you are using a regular razor, make sure the blade is new and sharp. This will help reduce the risk of cuts and skin irritation .
• Shaving cream or gel: It's better to use a shaving cream or gel than to shave with soap, as it makes it easier for the razor to glide over the skin. Some newer razors even have a shaving gel attached to the blade, making it easier for even first-time shavers.
• Slow and careful: When shaving areas like your legs, armpits, and face , do it very slowly and carefully . These areas have many curves, so if you try to shave too quickly, you can easily cut yourself. You may feel a little nervous when you first shave, and you may even get a few minor cuts until you get used to it. This is normal.

A little tip: When you're first learning how to shave, it's a good idea to get help and advice from an adult at home - your mom, dad, sister, or brother. Don't be shy and ask.

Think twice about shaving in certain areas.

• Private areas: Think twice about shaving your pubic area. When the hair grows back, it can cause a lot of itching, redness, and small blisters . It's very uncomfortable.
• Boys - Chest: Also think about shaving the hair on the chest of boys.
• Girls - Face: Girls, try to avoid shaving facial hair. Because when the hair grows back, it can become coarse and look like thorns. Then you have to keep shaving.

Especially about girls' facial hair

If you're a girl, you might be bothered by the little hair on your upper lip. But take a step back from the mirror. It may not be as noticeable to others as you think. Most of the time, it's only noticeable to you. But if you really want to get rid of unwanted facial hair, look into different ways to do it. Ask an adult, such as a sister, for advice. There are products specifically designed for facial hair. There are things like bleaches that lighten the color of the hair, to hair removers for the face. There are also some new facial moisturizers (oil-free) that claim to help soften facial hair and make it less noticeable. You can try something like this before bleaching or waxing. In rare cases, if a girl's facial hair is causing her a lot of stress and anxiety, she can see a dermatologist and talk about permanent hair removal methods like electrolysis.

Another important thing: Sometimes, excessive body and facial hair in girls can be a symptom of a medical condition like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome ( PCOS ) . So, if you're a girl and you're concerned about your body hair, it's best to talk to a doctor.

So, let's remember this? (Take-Home Message)

When you're a big kid, your body goes through a lot of changes. That's just nature.

• These changes are normal: your hair getting oilier, sweating more, your body smelling different, and hair growing in new places. Don't be afraid or embarrassed.
• Cleanliness is important: Simple things like bathing every day, wearing clean clothes, and keeping your hair clean can help you stay healthy and well.
• Choose the right products: Choose products that suit your skin and hair. Use things like deodorant only if necessary.
• Shaving is your decision: It's your choice whether or not to shave. If you do, do it carefully.
• Ask for help: If you are worried or have any doubts about something, ask an adult or someone you trust at home. If necessary, see a doctor.

It's important to learn about your body and hygiene during this time. Then you can move forward with these changes with happiness and confidence!