Any efforts one may take to maintain a clean body and atmosphere. The removal of harmful and extraneous matter from your body and environment that are potential health risks is extremely important.  Bathing/showering, shampooing hair, washing hands, disinfecting the mouth, cleaning out one’s nose, eyes and ears, removing bacteria from your feet, genital and rectal areas are all extremely vital practices that facilitate good hygiene. Adequate hygiene is so important in the workplace or at school because it is a reflection of your self and people take notice. In addition, when one becomes aware of a hygiene problem, it can generate anxiety. It is important to also note that any problems that you experience could be systemic (internal problem in your body) rather than hygienic (about cleanliness) so confer with your doctor if problems persist.

There are four major facets to hygiene:

1.  Social and public hygiene – maintained by the community in order to ensure clean water, operational sewage facilities, regulatory criterion for foods, extract pollution and eyesores from the community, and ascertain the availability of personal hygiene necessities and services. The goal is to prevent the transmission of contagious diseases.

2.  Domestic hygiene – the condition of one’s home is essential in maintaining good hygiene. Preparing, cooking and serving food in sanitary place is important to health. Regularly cleaning the linens, clothing and the upkeep of the house itself are effective ways to guarantee good hygiene.

3.  Personal hygiene – daily care like bathing, brushing one’s teeth, washing hands, wearing clean, neat clothing, making certain that nails and hair are not overgrown. Protective lotions, sunscreen, pleasant aromas, cosmetic and aesthetic touches to the body can improve your personal appearance. This promotes mental, emotional, physical and social well-being.

4.  Industrial hygiene – avoidance and/or treatment of work-related diseases.

Regular, sufficient hygiene helps prevent bacterial and viral infections, fungal infestations, skin disorders and cancer, tooth decay and other conditions of the mouth, inflammations, and vision or hearing problems.