"You can't convince me that hygiene is common sense because most of these habits I have learned through trial and error," said Anshula Kapoor, as she walked us through 5 of her "unsexy but essential" hygiene habits. Taking to Instagram, The Traitors actor stressed the importance of normalising conversations surrounding hygiene and self-care, sharing that she swears by anti-chafing gel, face and body towels, using a tongue cleaner, a water flosser, mouthwash, face razors, and anti-dandruff shampoo. Curious, we consulted health experts to verify the long-term effectiveness of these habits. Dr Richa Negi, Consultant Dermatologist at Kaya Limited, recommends incorporating Anshula's practical hygiene habits into daily routines to support healthy skin, scalp, and oral hygiene. According to her, each practice offers clear benefits grounded in dermatological science, helping prevent common skin irritations, breakouts, and infections. Here's a quick breakdown of each: Anti-chafing gel Applying an anti-chafing gel creates a protective barrier on the skin, reducing friction and preventing irritation or rashes—especially in areas like the inner thighs, where skin rubs together during movement. Silicone-based gels are preferred for their breathability and water resistance, making them ideal for sensitive skin prone to chafing. Separate towels for face and body Using distinct towels, one exclusively for the face and another for the body, is crucial for reducing the transfer of bacteria and fungi. Body towels often harbour more sweat, oils, and dead skin cells, which can trigger facial acne or sensitivity if used on the face. For acne-prone skin, using tissues instead of a reusable face towel can help reduce bacterial buildup that triggers breakouts. This simple separation greatly reduces irritation and maintains facial skin health. Fresh-Breath Care: Tongue cleaner, water flosser, mouthwash Maintaining good oral hygiene with a tongue cleaner, water flosser, and mouthwash helps control bacteria and prevent bad breath. It is important to brush your teeth before washing your face because tooth brushing removes bacteria and toothpaste residue that could irritate the skin or clog pores around the mouth. Washing your face after brushing cleans away any residue or particles, promoting clearer skin and reducing the risk of breakouts or bacterial skin issues in the mouth area. This sequence supports both fresh breath and healthy skin. Face razor hygiene For those seeking a reliable and hygienic way to maintain smooth skin, Dermaplaning is a safer and more effective alternative to traditional face razors. Unlike regular razors that require frequent cleaning and replacement to avoid irritation and bacterial infections, dermaplaning uses a sterile, single-use blade designed specifically for gentle exfoliation and fine hair removal. This method minimises skin trauma, reduces the risk of razor burns, ingrown hairs, and breakouts. Rotating anti-dandruff shampoos Using an anti-dandruff shampoo in rotation helps maintain a healthy scalp by preventing the buildup of active ingredients and reducing irritation. The frequency of use depends on the oiliness of your scalp, as these shampoos are formulated specifically for the scalp, not the hair strands. Rotating shampoos ensures continued effectiveness against dandruff, controls flakes, and supports a balanced scalp environment, promoting overall scalp health without causing dryness or sensitivity. Points to note Dr Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist, Dr Shareefa Skincare Clinic, Mumbai, however, expressed caution against blindly following celebrity-recommended habits on the internet. "While these tips sound practical, it is important to understand that not everything trending or commonly shared is necessarily safe or effective for everyone," she said, listing out some points of caution: Frequent use of gels and chemical products may irritate sensitive skin. Using separate towels can help with hygiene, but if towels are not washed regularly, they may actually spread bacteria. Dental tools like tongue cleaners and mouthwashes, if overused or not suited to your gums, may damage oral tissues. Face razors can cause cuts, infections, or even scarring if not replaced carefully Anti-dandruff shampoos used without proper guidance may worsen dryness or lead to treatment resistance. Instead of experimenting with home hacks, Dr Chause advised following professional advice. "A doctor or dermatologist can recommend products based on your skin type, oral care needs, or scalp condition," she said. What works for one person may harm another. Self-care is essential, but safe self-care is even more important. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
