HEALTH + WELLNESS
Summer care…
R
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Nancy Palermo Lietz
down there
Rising temperatures and summer
activities introduce new concerns for
our private places. A little extra care
and attention can prevent some of the
summer’s less than welcome problems.
the shifts in the environment that can
be associated with irritation and odor.
Going commando at night will give the
perineal area a break from locked in
moisture while sleeping.
Moisture from the summer heat and
bathing suits sets up an environment
that can promote vaginal irritation and
infections. It is a good habit to quickly
change out of workout wear and wet
bathing suits. The moisture can be
conducive to the growth of yeast and
irritation and inflammation. Consider
changing your undergarments to a
moisture wicking material.
Shaving is a must when preparing for
the teeny weenie bikini but this can
often result in rashes and razor burn.
Bacteria on the skin get trapped in
hair follicles and cause the unsightly
bumps and redness. After shaving, try
cleaning the skin with an astringent to
reduce the amount of bacteria. Repeat
this daily. A mild moisturizer will keep
the hair follicles from getting blocked.
Using coconut oil after shaving can
also be a great option. After cleaning the newly shaven skin with the
astringent apply a thin layer of the oil.
Coconut oil has natural antibacterial
properties. Be sure to wear moisture
wicking undergarments, especially
after hair removal. Waxing and depilatories are also options for perineal hair
removal. The same post-hair removal
preventative tactics will be beneficial. n
Avoid wearing panti-liners unless
absolutely necessary. They increase
moisture and odor. This moisture and
increase in bacteria and yeast can cause
skin breakdown and dermatitis. Cotton
undergarments are always preferred.
A new patented material found in
Knock out! panties literally wicks away
moisture and keeps skin dry and less
susceptible to infections. Wearing these
undergarments under clothes and
work out wear will help to prevent
JUNE JULY 2014
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