Hygiene Habits for Hippies AND Hipsters

When we’re younger, we can sometimes get away with less-than-perfect hygiene. Falling asleep with makeup on, skipping flossing, or even going a few days without washing our hair doesn’t seem to leave much of a mark. But as the years roll on, our bodies, skin, and immune systems change—and suddenly those skipped steps have bigger consequences.

Good hygiene isn’t just about looking polished; it’s about keeping our bodies healthier, preventing infections, supporting our skin and teeth, and feeling confident in our own skin. Here are some hygiene habits that become even more important as we get older, along with tips for making them easy and enjoyable.

1. Washing Your Face—The Right Way 

In our teens and twenties, a splash of water and maybe a soapy scrub was often enough to keep our faces looking clear. But as we age, our skin produces less natural oil, loses elasticity, and becomes more prone to irritation. Suddenly, that rough face wash from the drugstore isn’t cutting it anymore.

Why it matters more now:

• Dirt, makeup, and pollutants can cause irritation, redness, or breakouts more easily on mature skin.
• Cleansing helps prevent clogged pores and dullness, which tend to show more with age.
• A clean canvas allows moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging products to absorb better.

How to do it well:

• Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser instead of harsh soaps. Cream and oil cleansers are especially good for middle-aged and older skin.
• Wash your face twice daily—morning and night. The nighttime wash is most important since it removes makeup, sunscreen, and pollution from the day.
• Skip the aggressive scrubbing. Instead, gently massage your cleanser in with your fingertips.
• Follow with a hydrating toner, serum, and moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Think of face washing not as a chore, but as a little daily spa moment. Your skin will thank you with a healthy glow.

2. Oral Hygiene—Guarding More Than Just Your Smile 

In youth, a missed flossing session might mean nothing more than a guilty conscience at the dentist’s office. But as we age, dental hygiene becomes crucial—not just for avoiding cavities, but for protecting overall health.

Why it matters more now:

• Gum disease risk increases with age, and untreated gum problems have been linked to heart disease, diabetes complications, and even dementia.
• Enamel naturally thins as we get older, making teeth more vulnerable to decay.
• Dry mouth (often caused by medications) makes cavities more likely.

How to do it well:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss once a day, even if you have dental work. Floss threaders or water flossers can help.
• Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep gums healthy.
• Stay up-to-date with dental checkups and cleanings—twice a year is standard.

Caring for your teeth and gums now is one of the best long-term investments in your health.

3. Hand and Nail Care—Tiny Details, Big Impact 

When we were younger, we might not have given our nails much thought beyond the occasional polish. But hands and nails tell a lot about hygiene—and health—as we get older.

Why it matters more now:

• Nails can thicken, yellow, or become brittle with age, making them prone to fungal infections.
• Dry skin on hands becomes more common, which can lead to cracks and irritation.
• Clean, well-kept hands help reduce the spread of germs, especially important with weaker immune defenses.

How to do it well:

• Wash hands regularly, but avoid very hot water, which strips natural oils.
• Moisturize after every wash with a nourishing hand cream.
• Keep nails trimmed and clean. A monthly DIY manicure (even without polish) goes a long way.
• Pay attention to nail changes. Discoloration, ridges, or thickening can signal health concerns worth checking with a doctor.

Soft, clean hands are both healthier and more pleasant for everyday living.

4. Scalp and Hair Hygiene—Not Just About Style 

In our younger years, washing hair was often more about keeping it shiny for social outings. As we age, hair hygiene plays a role in scalp health, odor control, and confidence.

Why it matters more now:

• Hormonal changes can make hair thinner and drier, while scalps can become itchier or more sensitive.
• Skipping washes for too long may cause buildup, dandruff, or scalp irritation.
• Clean hair and scalp can make thinning hair look fuller.

How to do it well:

• Use a gentle shampoo designed for your hair type—hydrating for dry, volumizing for fine or thinning hair.
• Wash as needed, but avoid over-washing, which can strip natural oils. Every 2–4 days works well for many.
• Massage the scalp while washing to boost circulation and remove buildup.
• Condition regularly, focusing on the ends, to keep hair soft and manageable.

A clean, comfortable scalp makes a surprising difference in overall well-being.

5. Foot Care—The Often-Ignored Essential 

When you’re young, it’s easy to ignore your feet unless sandal season is around the corner. But as we age, foot hygiene becomes critical for mobility, comfort, and preventing infections.

Why it matters more now:

• Toenails can thicken and be harder to trim, which increases the risk of fungal infections.
• Circulation changes in the legs and feet can make small wounds slower to heal.
• Poor foot hygiene can lead to odor, pain, and discomfort that impact daily life.

How to do it well:

• Wash feet daily with soap and water, drying thoroughly—especially between toes.
• Moisturize to prevent cracks, but avoid putting lotion between toes (to reduce fungal risk).
• Trim nails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails.
• Wear clean, breathable socks and shoes that fit well.

Healthy feet keep you moving, and mobility is one of the greatest gifts we can preserve with age.

6. Showering and Body Care—Quality Over Quantity 

In our youth, we might shower daily (or more!) after sports, workouts, or just because it felt refreshing. As we age, showering habits often need an update.

Why it matters more now:

• Mature skin is thinner and more prone to dryness, so frequent hot showers can strip away necessary oils.
• Proper cleansing helps prevent skin infections, which become riskier with age.
• Body odor can change as we get older due to shifts in hormones and skin bacteria, making smart hygiene more important.

How to do it well:

• Shower as needed—every other day may be enough for many people. Daily washing of underarms, groin, and feet is usually sufficient in between.
• Use lukewarm water instead of hot to protect skin.
• Choose moisturizing, fragrance-free body washes instead of harsh soaps.
• Apply lotion right after bathing to lock in hydration.

The goal is balance: staying clean and fresh without stripping the skin of its protective barrier.

7. Laundry and Clothing Care—Freshness Matters 

When we were younger, we might have worn jeans for days or tossed workout clothes back into the gym bag. But as we get older, our bodies sweat differently, and bacteria multiply faster on fabrics.

Why it matters more now:

• Clothing that isn’t washed often enough can harbor bacteria and fungi, leading to skin irritation or infections.
• Fresh clothes help us feel more confident and put-together.

How to do it well:

• Wash underwear, socks, and workout clothes after each wear.
• Air out and wash pajamas and sheets weekly for freshness and health.
• Choose breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce sweat buildup.

Fresh clothes equal fresh comfort.

Final Thoughts

Hygiene is more than looking good—it’s about protecting your health and dignity as you age. Habits like washing your face gently, flossing daily, caring for hands and feet, and choosing kinder products for skin and hair can make all the difference in how you feel day to day.

What might have been “optional” in youth becomes essential later in life. The good news? These habits don’t take much time, and many can feel like little acts of self-care. With a bit of attention and consistency, you can age gracefully, healthfully, and confidently.