Chapter 52: It’s Getting Hot Out Here: Let’s Talk Hygiene for the Summer!

One of my favorite Nelly songs, “Hot In Here,” describes how the streets feel these days.

Summer is officially upon us, the sun is going down later, and Outside is calling our names. 

But, Ladies, while outside might be calling, sweat and odor are calling even louder. 

Therefore, I wanted to drop some Hygiene GEMS we can use to keep ourselves smelling good during the summer season.  

#1: Showering Essentials:

Ladies, cleaning yourself thoroughly is essential, especially in the Summer months. 

One of the best ways to do that is to double cleanse. For instance, you should always start with a gentle bar soap and then use a shower gel of your choice. 

The shower gel can be scented, but I have noticed that this method helps keep you feel fresh throughout the day. 

It can be a Dove Bar, it can be Shea Moisture, or it can be Method Body Wash. Whatever makes you feel good is what you should use. 

In addition to using soap in the Summer, taking care of your feet in the shower is essential. 

In the Summer, we love wearing sandals and open-toe heels; therefore, we must take care of our feet regularly. 

While getting a pedicure is nice, washing your feet and exfoliating them is equally as essential. We place our feet in shoes all day, which causes a lot of sweat and bacteria, so we have to clean them thoroughly. 

But, even further, we must clean them because we don’t want them to stink. If you go to someone’s house and take your shoes off, you don’t want to be the one with stinky feet. 

Mini GEM: If you’re getting pedicures done, get a manicure too! 

#2: Body Essentials:

As equally important as it is to use good products in the shower, it is also essential to use quality products outside of it. 

Lotion, Lotion, Lotion is the base for a good and hygienic after-shower skincare routine. 

There are many lotions in the world, so sis, you have options! I have always enjoyed creams that give me a good shine, are not too watery, and leave my skin glowing. 

I am not a big-scented lotion person, but if you like them, this is an excellent time to use them in your hygienic routine. 

They also help you not be ashy and leave your skin with a lovely shimmer!

Another body essential is deodorant!

In the Summer, I wear more than required. But that’s my business! 

Deodorant truly helps with odor and sweat and allows you not to feel sticky in the hot weather. 

I also like a Deodorant that goes on clear and stays clear. I am not too fond of deodorant that will leave a white residue under my arm. 

Therefore, I suggest using an Antiperspirant invisible roll-on deodorant that is dye free. 

Major GEM Alert: One thing my mother always taught me that was helpful with armpit odor was lemon! 

If you know, you know. And, if you don’t, try it out, sis! 

#3: Scent Essentials:

Another thing I love is PERFUME!

And, let me tell you, it doesn’t have to be the most expensive Perfume to smell good. 

All the Perfume has to do is help you smell great and boost the other products you have put on as you get ready throughout the day. 

Let me also say you don’t have to put Perfume on only during your morning routine. Drop your Perfume or a travel-size version in your bag, and take it on the go. 

One thing that can help in case you’re worried the scent will be rancid throughout the day is using wipes.

Baby or cleansing wipes are great to keep in your purse, especially in the Summer. 

They help cleanse, they can help fix makeup, or they can help clean your hands before you eat. 

I carry two kinds in my purse; Lysol and a pack of baby wipes. 

But, all jokes aside, carrying wipes, Perfume, and deodorant in your bag can also help if you don’t have time to go home after work before you go to that after-hours spot.

#4: Clothes Essentials:

Ladies, hygiene does not only pertain to our products like deodorant. It also is about the detergent we use.

And I like my clean clothes! One of the ways I take care of my hygiene is by using good products on the clothes I wear. 

Even further, I let my clothes air out when I come home from outside, or they go into the hamper. 

Of course, you don’t have to take the GEMS I am dropping. 

But I hope they help if you do use them!

Peace & Prosperity, as always!

Jadis DeShong-Venay