Hygiene Habits Boost Health

New York, N.Y. – Maintaining personal hygiene is not just about appearance; it’s a cornerstone of health and well-being, according to a recent article from Vall d’Hebron University Hospital in Barcelona.

The hospital’s comprehensive guide, published on their website, emphasizes that good hygiene practices are essential for preventing diseases and infections, enhancing quality of life, and fostering a sense of personal dignity. As urban populations grow and public health challenges evolve, these insights offer timely advice for individuals seeking to protect themselves and their communities.

Simple Habits Prevent Disease

The Vall d’Hebron article underscores that neglecting hygiene can lead to serious health consequences. “A person who fails to take care of their personal hygiene may catch various diseases and infections,” the hospital notes, citing examples like tooth decay, bad breath, and even cardiovascular diseases. Bacteria from plaque in the gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially reaching the heart and increasing the risk of a heart attack. This connection between oral hygiene and systemic health highlights the importance of daily routines like brushing teeth and visiting the dentist twice a year.

Beyond oral care, the hospital recommends frequent handwashing to eliminate dirt and bacteria, particularly after activities like sports or before eating. “It is important you wash your hands frequently, to eliminate dirt and bacteria,” the article states, emphasizing that this simple act can significantly reduce the spread of germs. Regular showers, especially after physical activity, are also critical for removing sweat, dead cells, and bacteria, helping to prevent body odor and skin infections.

Skin and Hair Care Matter

Facial hygiene is another focal point, as the skin produces oils daily that can clog pores and cause acne or eruptions. The hospital advises washing the face at least twice a day with a cleanser suited to one’s skin type. “Facial skin is more sensitive than the rest of the body’s skin,” the article explains, recommending hypo-allergenic products for sensitive skin and avoiding alcohol-based cleansers for dry skin. For those who wear makeup, using a specialized cleanser followed by a thorough wash is essential to maintain skin health.

Hair care also plays a role in overall hygiene. While daily washing isn’t necessary, the hospital suggests washing hair at least once a week with an appropriate shampoo and getting a haircut every three months to keep it healthy. “It is also advisable to have your hair cut every three months or, at the very least, twice a year,” the article notes. These practices not only promote cleanliness but also boost self-esteem and personal comfort.

Clothing and Nail Hygiene

Clean clothing is vital for both appearance and health. The hospital warns that dirty clothes may harbor microorganisms that cause skin infections. “People who wear clean clothes always look better and feel better,” the article states, advising daily changes of underclothes and immediate washing of items contaminated with vomit, sweat, or animal contact at 60 degrees Celsius to eliminate bacteria. Drying clothes promptly is equally important to prevent dank odors and further infections.

Nail hygiene is another critical area. The hospital recommends regularly cutting fingernails and toenails to prevent dirt accumulation, which can lead to infections or foot conditions. “Fingernails and toenails need to be frequently cut to prevent dirt from accumulating underneath them,” the article advises, emphasizing the importance of personal tools like nail clippers to avoid sharing bacteria.

Community Health and Personal Responsibility

The Vall d’Hebron guide also highlights the communal benefits of good hygiene. Practices like covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing and disposing of used tissues properly can prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria. “Be careful when you sneeze or cough. Throw away used tissues and clean any items you have touched,” the hospital urges, noting that these small actions improve everyone’s quality of life. Avoiding sharing personal items like shavers, brushes, or deodorants further reduces the risk of bacterial transmission.

As public health experts continue to stress the importance of hygiene in preventing pandemics and localized outbreaks, these recommendations resonate globally. In densely populated areas like New York City, where germs can spread rapidly, adopting these habits can make a significant difference. The hospital’s advice serves as a reminder that personal hygiene is a shared responsibility, contributing to both individual and community health.

Simple Habits Prevent Serious Diseases, Improve Life Quality (May 16, 2025)