To be healthy, adopting good hygiene habits is one of the necessary measures for this. Among these, the bath is one of the main ones.
The skin, the largest organ in the human body, acts as a natural barrier against the entry of microorganisms. Containing several commensal bacteria, these protect the skin against the entry of other living beings that cause disease. However, when the proliferation of these first ones is accentuated (or when they are drastically removed), the skin can be damaged, allowing infestation, or even infection, of these other organisms.
The main cause of this overpopulation is the change in the pH of the skin. Sweat, excessive oil and dead cells; in addition to pollutants, food scraps and dirt in general, are some of the factors that favor this change. The bad smell is an indicator that such changes are taking place...
Thus, in addition to providing the individual with a moment of comfort and reenergization, the bath allows these items, accumulated during the day, to be removed; together with some commensal bacteria, promoting the balance of its population.
In this way, these daily moments prevent the occurrence of certain discomforts, such as rashes, mycoses, lice and scabs; illnesses; or even allergies, also providing a pleasant aroma. In addition, they unclog pores, allowing the skin to breathe properly; and they avoid problems related to social interaction, as people whose personal hygiene leaves something to be desired tend to be excluded from the group.
For bathing, water and soap are essential. The first removes particles that are easier to be taken with it, and allows the soap to be dissolved more effectively, forming foam. It interacts with components that are not soluble in water, facilitating its elimination. Together with the sponge (preferably vegetable, so as not to damage the skin), more resistant dirt is removed, the skin tissue is massaged and blood circulation is stimulated.
Experts indicate that, to prevent the destruction of commensal bacteria and the protective lipid layer, the soap should be used only once a day throughout the body; using it in other baths only in regions more prone to exaggerated proliferation of these, such as the armpits, genitals, buttocks, feet and body folds.
It is also worth mentioning that, despite being extremely pleasant, wasting water affects health... from your pocket and the planet!
By Mariana Araguaia
Graduated in Biology
Brazil School Team
Healthy Tips -Health and wellness -Brazil School
Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/saude/a-importancia-do-banho.htm