How to Have Good Hygiene Near Puberty (for Girls)

Before you start puberty, you will notice some things in and on your body that are changing. Don't worry though. This article gives you some helpful tips on how to take care of your body to be prepared for when puberty strikes.

Method 1 - Managing Body Odor

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→ Use deodorant. Before you hit puberty, you will notice that you will sweat easier and more often than you used to. Don't worry though; this is easily cured. All you need is some deodorant. If you aren't sure what deodorant is, just ask your parents or guardian.

→ There are many types of deodorant available on the market. They may have different scents, different applications (roll-on, spray etc), marketed for different purposes etc. You should try out different brands and find the one you like. If you get bored with a certain product, or develop  an allergy, don't worry! You can get another one.

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→ Shower more often. Another thing you will notice is greasy hair. All this means is that your hair follicles are releasing more oil so that your hair can grow longer. Even though you need some of this oil in your hair, you have to keep the amounts down to keep up with basic hygiene. To do this, shower at least once a day, using soap or shower gel (pay special attention to your armpits and private area), as well as using shampoo (and conditioner) on your hair.

→ If you have long, thick hair, you might not be able to dry it daily - you can wash your hair every 3 days and use hacks, like wearing a pony tail or braiding your hair, as well as products like dry shampoo. Many women have short hair, to make keeping hygiene easier (shorter hair dries faster).

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→ Prevent acne breakouts. Most girls coming into puberty will notice little red spots all over their face that appear to be white; these are called pimples. If there are many of them, it is called acne. Nobody likes these little pests all over their faces, but there is a way to cure them and to help make them go away.

→ Try purchasing pore cleansing rinses, as well as acne clearing creams. Washing your face with a washcloth, some body wash, and water is another way to help clear your face.

Method 2 - Dealing with Body Hair

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→ Consider shaving. Coming into puberty, you will notice hairs growing on your legs, arms, and armpits. If you do consider shaving, make sure to talk to your mom to make sure she's ok with it. However, shaving comes with consequences. If you shave, the hairs will come back harder and darker. This is normal, but make sure to keep your hairs shaved so that you won't have to worry about everyone seeing them.

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→ Shaving your private parts. Not only will you begin growing hairs on your arms and legs, but they will also begin to grow in your private areas. These hairs are completely normal and natural, so leaving them be is the best option. However, some girls feel disgusted by all these long hairs, so they end up shaving themselves.

→ Shaving is an option, but doing so will almost always give you a rash, or you will itch very badly from that area. Always consult or ask an adult before you consider shaving or doing anything else to your growing body.

Method 3 - Dealing with Your Period

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→ Start using menstrual hygiene products. Always wear a panty liner when you are nearing the age you think you will start your period. Carry pads, tampons, a menstrual cup, or another form of protection with you. A few folds of toilet paper can be a substitute as a pad if absolutely necessary.

TIPS

→ Getting your first period can be akward, but is normal and natural. If you have questions and/or are not sure about something concerning  this, ask a female friend or family member to help you out or give you some tips.

→ You may be allergic to certain products e.g. shower gels, deodorants; this should not discourage  you from basic hygiene - there are enough products out in the market and you should  just replace them.

→ When you hit puberty, you may start to like boys and this is perfectly natural. Although love is magical, you should still make sure you are ready for a boyfriend, and be careful that you do not get taken advantage of.

Warnings

→ Leaks will almost inevitably happen at least once in your life, so be aware that this can occur and prepare accordingly.

→ Always carry menstrual supplies in your school bag or purse after your first period, or you may end up with an accident on your hands. You can also have a single pad (from your mom or sister) before your first period, so you don't have to ask around for one or use toilet paper in the bathroom.