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Puberty and Proper Hygiene

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During your teenage years, you might feel that your body is riding a never-ending roller coaster of changes. This is probably (at least partially) because your body is going through puberty. When puberty begins, a special hormone in your brain sends a message to your body that it's time for some big changes. A lot of these will happen quickly, sometimes unexpectedly. However, they are a completely normal part of transitioning into adulthood. Here are some of the bigger changes you can expect, plus a few tips on how good hygiene can help you be ready for them.

Manage new hair growth without getting razor burn.

As your body goes through puberty, hair will begin to grow in new places, such as near your armpits, chest, groin, or face (for boys). It's up to you to decide whether you want to shave, groom, or let your hair grow naturally. If you decide to shave, you'll want to avoid folliculitis, or what is more commonly referred to as razor burn. This skin condition is usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection that causes hair follicles to become inflamed, resulting in bumps or skin irritation.1

Safeguard™ with GermShield+ fights the bacterial and fungal germs that cause folliculitis for up to 12 hours after washing, which is longer than any other antibacterial soap. Simply wash the areas with new hair growth using Safeguard Body Wash or Bar Soap, warm water, and a clean washcloth, and dry off by patting your skin with a clean towel.

Minimize the impact of oily skin.

One of the other major changes you're likely to experience during puberty is the excess production of oil known as sebum, which often leads to acne. Approximately 80% of preteens and teens have acne.2 One of the best ways to help prevent acne is to keep your face clean. If you don't already have a face-cleaning routine, you should start one. Cleaning your face with warm water and a mild cleanser, such as Safeguard Derma Sense Anti-Acne Face & Body Bar can help prevent oil buildup and eliminate bacteria that cause or worsen acne. Also, try to avoid touching your face, as this can easily transfer germs to already infected acne areas. If you're interested in using cosmetics as a way to cover your acne, shop for "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic" makeup.

Don't let body odor take over.

If you're starting to notice an increase in body odor during puberty, you're not alone. It's nothing to be embarrassed about, and it's easy to fight. Sweat alone does not cause body odor. Your apocrine glands, which only begin developing during puberty, are to blame.

Most body odor is caused by the reaction of bacteria breaking down the proteins apocrine sweat releases. Washing once daily with Safeguard Body Wash or Bar Soap can fight off the bacteria that lead to body odor, keeping it away longer than other antibacterial soap. While wearing deodorant may help minimize the smell of body odor, Safeguard with GermShield+ kills the bacteria that cause it. Safeguard with GermShield+ can also help eliminate other bacterial and fungal germs that cause many skin infections, fungal diseases, or other illnesses, which can lead to odors themselves.

The teenage years can be challenging, but remember everyone is going through similar changes. If you know what to expect, you can be more ready to react to it. Then, once you set good hygiene routines in place, you’ll have less to worry about and more time for fun.