Intimate hygiene and personal grooming guide for men: How to go about it?

Rashes down there, body odour from excessive sweating, and acne can be off-putting. Besides, it can also affect one physically and mentally. Although most men don't worry much about their intimate hygiene or personal grooming, it is essential to be aware of the negative consequences that can be born out of choosing to stay unhygienic

To be able to practice crucial hygiene habits and protect themselves from any kind of infection, men must be aware of how to take care of themselves. Mid-day Online spoke to health experts who share a simple guide to men's intimate hygiene and personal grooming.

Men’s intimate hygiene: Expert tips to keep infections at bay

6 months agoPHOTO GALLERY

"While the focus on women's intimate hygiene has led to a wide range of products catering to their needs, men are left with limited options or are even unaware of the importance of maintaining proper hygiene in their intimate areas. It is crucial to recognise that men too need attention when it comes to personal cleanliness and well-being," says Dr Sushruta Mokadam, consultant obstetrician at Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi, Pune.

"Maintaining basic intimate hygiene and wellness is crucial for men's overall health and well-being. Good intimate hygiene provides comfort, reduces unpleasant odors, and enhances self-confidence, improving the quality of life and personal relationships," adds Dr Lalitha Palle, founder , ForMen Health.

Health risks from staying unhygienic
Infections in intimate areas for men can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor hygiene, unprotected sexual activity, and certain medical conditions. Being unhygienic can lead to a variety of infections and health risks for men.

UTI: Urinary tract infection or UTI occurs when bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract enter the urethra and multiply in the urinary system. Men who do not practice proper hygiene, such as regularly washing their genital area, are more prone to developing UTIs.

Jock Itch: This is a fungal infection that commonly affects men who do not keep their groin area clean and dry. Jock itch causes red, itchy rashes in the groin region and can spread to other areas if left untreated. It thrives in warm and moist environments, making it crucial for men to maintain good personal hygiene by regularly cleaning and drying their genital area.

Body odour: Failing to wash yourself regularly or neglecting basic grooming practices like brushing teeth or using deodorant contribute to unpleasant smells emanating from the body.

Yeast infection: It occurs when there is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. This can often result from excessive moisture in the genital area, wearing tight-fitting underwear made from non-breathable fabrics, or using perfumed products that disrupt the natural balance of bacteria.

Poor hygiene and sperm health
According to Palle, poor personal hygiene can lead to increased exposure to bacteria and infections, which may cause inflammation and damage to the male reproductive organs, including the testicles and epididymis. Lifestyle factors often associated with poor hygiene, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a lack of physical activity, can contribute to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress results in the production of free radicals that can damage sperm DNA and impair their motility.

Further, Mokadam adds that the accumulation of sweat, dirt, and bacteria in the genital area can lead to various infections such as UTIs or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which have been linked to decreased sperm quality. Neglecting proper hygiene practices may result in skin irritations or rashes that could affect sperm production.

These issues can impact overall health, and self-confidence and lead to social isolation. Proper cleaning and safe sexual practices are crucial for maintaining genital health.

Tips to ensure basic intimate hygiene

1. Bathe regularly with mild soap.
2. Wear clean underwear made from breathable fabrics like cotton.
3. Regularly change clothes, especially after physical exertion or sweating heavily.
4. Practice safe sex, use condoms.
5. Manage underlying health conditions.
6. Avoid prolonged use of fragrant personal care products near intimate areas. This can prevent disruption of natural pH levels and ward off unwanted infections.
7. Washing down there once or twice a day is usually sufficient for most men. Wash with mild, unscented soap and warm water. This helps remove sweat, bacteria, and odour, reducing the risk of infections and discomfort.

Grooming:
Shaving your intimate areas
To shave or not to shave is a question common among many. While most believe it is best to shave to stay squeaky clean, some find it better to stay away from razors.
"The decision to shave or maintain pubic hair is a matter of personal preference and can vary from person to person. Shaving may also be preferred for aesthetic or grooming reasons, as it can provide a cleaner look or enhance sensitivity during intimacy activities," says Palle.

Mokadam explains, pubic hair serves its own purpose in safeguarding sensitive areas from bacteria and friction. While some may believe that shaving is a necessity for hygiene, it's crucial to understand that properly cleaning the genital area with water and mild soap can effectively maintain cleanliness without resorting to the complete removal of pubic hair.

You must note that shaving can result in skin irritation and ingrown hair, which can actually increase the risk of infection.

"For people who prefer shaving their pubic area, you must know that it requires careful attention to safety and proper technique," says Pallle. It is important to trim long hair first with scissors or an electric trimmer to reduce the risk of clogging the razor. use a clean, sharp razor specifically designed for sensitive areas. Ensure you clean the area with warm water and a gentle, fragrance free cleanser to soften the hair and reduce the risk of irritation.

Shaving in the shower can be helpful since warm water opens up the pores. When shaving, go in the direction of hair growth to reduce the likelihood of ingrown hair and irritation. Stretch the skin taut to create a flat surface for the razor, and use short, gentle strokes.

Apply a soothing, alcohol free moisturizers to keep the area hydrated and calm any potential irritation. Avoid scented products as they can irritate the sensitive skin. To maintain hygiene, keep your razor clean and replace the blade regularly. It's also advisable to avoid tight clothing immediately after shaving to reduce friction and irritation.

For managing hair growth of your armpits too, both experts say the necessity of shaving armpit hair and body hair is subjective and depends on personal preferences, hygiene considerations, aesthetics, and societal expectations. Some cultures or social groups may place a greater emphasis on hair removal, while others may not.

Face grooming

Proper beard care and shaving routine are essential for men to maintain healthy and well-groomed facial hair. It is important to prepare the skin and beard before starting the shaving process. Men should wash their faces with warm water and use a facial cleanser to remove dirt and oil, which can clog the razor blade. Applying a shaving cream or gel will also help soften the beard hair for easier removal. Some men prefer a clean-shaven look and may need to shave every day, while others may choose to avoid frequent shaving. Shaving too frequently can lead to skin irritation, so it is essential for men to pay attention to their skin's reaction and adjust their shaving routine accordingly.

After shaving, applying a post-shave balm or moisturizers can help soothe the skin and prevent dryness or redness. Always remember to shave in the direction of hair growth to minimize irritation and ingrown hair. Maintaining a clean and well-maintained razor.

For those who like to maintain a healthy beard and moustache must adopt a combination of proper grooming and the use of suitable products. Regular washing with a mild, beard-specific shampoo is essential to keep the facial hair clean and free of dirt and excess oils.

It is recommended to wash the beard and mustache two to three times a week, as over-washing can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness. In addition to washing, applying a beard conditioner or oil is crucial. The oils also help reduce itchiness and flakiness associated with beard growth.

Beard balms and waxes can also be used to style and shape the facial hair, keeping it in place and well groomed. Moreover, combing or brushing the beard and moustache helps to distribute the products evenly and remove tangles. A well-maintained beard and moustache rely on proper cleansing, conditioning, grooming tools, and styling products.

Role of healthy diet and lifestyle habits

Both Palle and Mokadam share tips on the kind of diet and lifestyle habits men must follow that can aid them in staying clean and hygienic.

1. Adequate water intake is essential to maintain hydration and prevent body odor, as dehydration can lead to foul-smelling sweat.

2. Men should priorities foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, as they support the body's immune system, reducing the risk of infections.

3. Men should also limit their intake of spicy and pungent foods, as they can lead to strong-smelling sweat.

4. Avoid highly processed foods such as sugary snacks, deep-fried items, and excessive alcohol intake to prevent bad breath and body odour. Be mindful of what you eat.

5. Avoid wearing tight underwear. It can create a hot and humid environment, which promotes the growth of bacteria and fungi. This can lead to unpleasant odour, itching, and even infections in the genital area.

6. Opt for loose-fitting underwear made from breathable fabrics like cotton. It promotes better airflow and maintains intimate hygiene.