These biosecurity incidents impacted global standards
Cleaning out excess earwax may seem like a good idea, but it often does more harm than good. The problem is that it creates further issues when the earwax is pushed down the ear canal. This could cause harm to the eardrum and canal with the potential of permanent damage.
It can be tempting to take your phone to the toilet and scroll on social media, but cell phones pick up lots of germs, which you will later bring to other areas (including your face).
Washing our hands is important to keep us healthy and to reduce the spread of illness. Remember to wash your hands often, especially when in touch with potentially unsanitary surfaces.
Your scalp produces natural oils that are important for healthy and shiny hair, and when you shampoo it gets rid of dirt and excess oil. But if you do this too often, it will ultimately lead to dry and less lustrous hair.
Sharing razors is a terrible idea, as it can spread skin infections like staph, and in worst case scenarios it can transmit viruses like hepatitis and HIV.
Eyelash extensions can be bad news if you don't care for them properly. There are varying degrees of toxicity when the glues get into the eye, and it can lead to vision impairment or inflammation of the cornea.
It's easy to be sloppy when it comes to brushing your teeth, especially early in the morning when you're half asleep. But make sure that you brush for a full two minutes twice a day. And this is the minimum.
Sleeping with your contact lenses can cause eye irritation. But in worst case scenarios it can lead to a corneal abrasion or infection. So make sure you give your eyes a rest from them.
This might freak you out, but a shower towel can house bacteria, mold, and yeast after just a few days of use. This is because of all the moisture we leave behind after drying off. The best is to switch to a fresh towel every three to four days.
Sponges are big germ magnets, which can lead to the spread of diseases like salmonella. Even if you lose track of how long you've been using a sponge, try to replace it frequently.
Neglecting to wash your hair is really bad, too. Not only will the scalp start to smell, bacteria will eventually clog your hair follicles, which can lead to an infection. Aim to wash your hair every two to three days.
Mouthwash can actually be too harsh for some. Alcohol-based mouthwashes tend to dehydrate the mouth. It’s better to instead use mouthwash sparingly throughout the week.
If your toothbrush is located near the toilet, then you're putting yourself at risk of some cross-contamination. This is caused by an invisible cloud of microscopic particles when the toilet is flushed.
Sleeping with your makeup on is probably one of the biggest skincare mistakes around. Not washing your face daily can create clogged pores, which can lead to blackheads and pimples. Old makeup can also migrate under your eyelids and lead to inflamed follicles on the lash line, and serious skin infections.
Ingesting the bacteria on unwashed fruits and veggies can give you food poisoning, and consuming the pesticides can raise your risk of serious conditions. So make sure that you always wash your produce before consuming them.
Even if it's very rare, one of the most notorious consequences of not changing your tampon frequently enough is toxic shock syndrome, a potentially life-threatening infection.
When you don't wash your sheets, large quantities of particulates accumulate, including human skin cells. So make sure you change your bedding at least every other week.
This is probably a no-brainer, but make sure you change your underwear every day. When it comes to bras, they can trap oils and bacteria, which will eventually cause acne and rashes.
Wiping properly after going to the toilet will keep underwear clean and unpleasant odors at bay. Always wipe front to back to keep bacteria away.
Sometimes it's better to be selfish, and that includes with your hairbrush. Sharing them can put you at risk for lice and skin rashes. So it's better to be safe and avoid it.
Sources: (Eat This, Not That!) (The Healthy) (Healthline)
See also: The biggest women's health myths
Flip-flops and water shoes exist for a reason. So if you're at a public pool or showering at the gym, do wear them. This is because when sweat, hair, and urine collect on shower floors, they can breed bacteria, fungus, and mold, which you don't want to step on!
Personal hygiene is extremely important, and a quick shower a day is all you need. In general, soap and water can prevent acne, rashes, and life-threatening infections.
You probably rest your face on your hands several times per day. But when you do, remember that you're adding dirt to your face and clogging your pores. Focus on finding different ways to sit.
Dirty fingernails can spread a number of infections, so make sure to cut your nails often, as they are more likely to harbor dirt and bacteria. Nail clippers are also a haven for bacteria and fungal spores. The best way to clean them is to scrub them with rubbing alcohol.
Most TV remotes are often forgotten when it comes to cleaning, and they are covered in germs and viruses. Be wise and start cleaning it as well.
Refilling your disposable plastic water bottle too often or refilling your reusable water bottle without washing it thoroughly is very unhygienic. If not washed, large amounts of bacteria gather, which can even lead to food poisoning.
Hot showers can result in a number of negative side effects, including drying out skin and stripping away important natural oils. The intense heat could even cause a lowering of blood pressure, as it dilates peripheral blood vessels. So keep those showers short.
Washcloths and loofahs can harbor bacteria, mold, and yeast. Make sure you allow it to dry completely each time and replace it frequently.
While moisturizing is important, overdoing it will only make skin dryer. Excessive moisturizing can also lead to clogged pores and blackheads. Your best bet is to moisturize your body every other day, so it can take in its natural oils as well.
Click through the following gallery for some common hygiene habits that are actually bad.
Bad hygiene practices you didn’t know you had
These typical mistakes can have dangerous consequences
HEALTH Healthy living
If you shower most days and brush your teeth regularly, you probably think of yourself as a clean and hygienic person. But there's a good chance that you're overlooking a few areas that can have a significant impact on your long-term health.
Click through the following gallery for some common hygiene habits that are actually bad.