5 Often-Overlooked Areas to Wash After 60
Good hygiene remains important at every age, but older adults may sometimes have drier skin, reduced mobility, or difficulty reaching certain areas. A gentle, consistent routine can help prevent irritation, odor, and skin infections.
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Behind the ears — Oil, sweat, and skin debris can accumulate here. Gently wash and dry the area.
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Between the toes — Wash regularly and, importantly, dry thoroughly between the toes. Persistent moisture can encourage fungal infections.
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The belly button — It’s easy to overlook. Clean gently with mild soap and water, then dry it rather than aggressively scrubbing.
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Skin folds — Pay attention to areas such as the groin, under the breasts, and abdominal folds. Clean gently and keep them dry, particularly if they tend to stay moist.
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Around the feet and ankles — Wash the feet and inspect the skin at the same time for cracks, redness, blisters, sores, or changes in color.
A useful tip after 60
More washing isn’t necessarily better. Frequent hot showers and harsh soaps can strip natural oils from aging skin and cause dryness and itching. Use warm—not very hot—water, a gentle cleanser, and moisturize dry areas afterward.
If you have diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation, or difficulty caring for your feet, regular foot inspection is particularly important, and persistent sores or skin changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
And despite what sensational headlines sometimes suggest, there isn’t a special list of body parts that suddenly becomes necessary to wash because you turned 60. These are simply commonly overlooked areas worth including in a normal hygiene routine.
