It’s easy to dismiss unconventional hygiene practices as gimmicks, but some of them can truly redefine how we care for our bodies and health. These lesser-known practices may seem unusual, but they address blind spots in common self-care routines and can make a remarkable difference in your overall well-being. Let’s dive into 35 of these lesser-known, life-changing hygiene practices.
1. Switching to a Silk Pillowcase
Silk pillowcases help prevent wrinkles, reduce hair frizz, and are gentler on the skin, especially for people with acne.
2. Oil Pulling
This ancient Ayurvedic technique involves swishing oil in your mouth to purportedly remove toxins and improve oral health.
3. Dry Brushing
Before you shower, use a dry brush to exfoliate dead skin, improve blood circulation, and boost lymphatic drainage.
4. Using a Tongue Scraper
Tongue scrapers can remove bacteria better than just brushing your tongue, improving breath and oral health.
5. Avoiding Antibacterial Soaps
Antibacterial soaps can strip your skin of beneficial bacteria, potentially causing irritation. Mild cleansers are often a better choice.
6. Washing Your Hair with Rice Water
Rinse your hair with fermented rice water to strengthen strands, add shine, and promote growth.
7. Applying Sunscreen Indoors
Sunlight through windows can still damage your skin, so applying sunscreen even when indoors is a smart habit.
8. Using a Bidet
Bidets provide a more thorough and environmentally friendly cleaning compared to toilet paper.
9. Sleeping with Socks On
Moisturizing your feet and wearing socks to bed prevents dryness and cracked heels over time.
10. Cleaning Belly Buttons
Many people forget to clean their belly buttons, leading to a buildup of debris and irritation. Use a mild cleanser.
11. Regular Scalp Massages
Massaging your scalp increases circulation, promotes hair growth, and keeps your scalp healthy.
12. Using Floss Picks
Floss picks simplify oral hygiene and help you floss effectively, reaching tricky areas.
13. Ditching Cotton Swabs for Ear Cleaning
Use an ear irrigation system or let gravity and warm water naturally clean your ears to prevent injury.
14. Detoxing Your Armpits
Switching to natural deodorants? Detox armpits with a bentonite clay mask to ease the transition.
15. Showering Less Frequently
Daily showers can rob your skin of natural oils, exacerbating dryness—most people do better with fewer showers per week.
16. Double Cleansing Your Face
Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, then use a water-based cleanser to deep clean your skin.
17. Rinsing with Cold Water
Ending your shower or hair wash with cold water can tighten pores and leave your skin and hair shinier.
18. Using a Humidifier
Especially during winter, a humidifier prevents your skin from drying out, keeping it smooth and hydrated.
19. Brushing Before Breakfast
Brushing your teeth before eating protects enamel from acid erosion caused by food.
20. Adding Collagen to Your Diet
Incorporating collagen supplements can support skin elasticity and nail strength over time.
21. Wearing Shower Shoes in Public Bathrooms
Protect your feet from fungi and bacteria by always using shower shoes in shared spaces.
22. Cleaning Your Phone Regularly
Your phone harbors bacteria—it needs as much attention as washing your hands.
23. Exfoliating Lips with a Toothbrush
Gently scrub your lips with a toothbrush or exfoliator to remove dead cells and keep lips smooth.
24. Boiling Your Hairbrush
Boiling combs and brushes can remove oil and residue, giving your tools a true deep clean.
25. Using a Satin Eye Mask
A satin eye mask can protect delicate skin while promoting deep sleep.
26. Letting Your Hair Dry Naturally
Avoid blow-drying whenever you can to minimize heat damage and allow your hair to remain healthier.
27. Sanitizing Reusable Water Bottles
Wash your water bottles daily to minimize bacterial growth and prevent bad odors.
28. Cleaning Makeup Brushes Weekly
Dirty makeup brushes harbor bacteria and can wreak havoc on your skin—clean them consistently.
29. Wearing a Hair Cover to Bed
Protect your hair from breakage and frizziness by using a satin bonnet or scarf.
30. Using Reusable Menstrual Products
Menstrual cups and reusable pads are eco-friendly and often gentler on sensitive skin compared to disposable options.
31. Drinking Water First Thing in the Morning
Hydrate immediately after waking up to kickstart metabolism and flush toxins.
32. Adding Apple Cider Vinegar to Baths
A small amount of apple cider vinegar in the bath can help balance your skin’s pH levels and soothe irritation.
33. Storing Toothbrushes in UV Sterilizers
Keep your toothbrush sterile and bacteria-free with UV disinfectors.
34. Washing Pillowcases Weekly
Dirty pillowcases can contribute to acne and allergies; wash them at least once a week for clearer skin.
35. Using Micellar Water on Non-Wash Days
Particularly for oily skin, micellar water can keep your face clean and fresh without over-drying.