Let’s face it: bodies can be gross. They’re hairy, exude various fluids, smell bad, grow boils, make acne, and all sorts of embarrassing and unsightly happenings.
But just because we can accept that our bodies don’t always look like spotless, hairless, shiny magazine models all the time doesn’t mean that we can’t do whatever we can to fix or treat any body issues we have!
All bodies are good bodies, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do what you can to feel the best possible in your own skin. So keep reading to learn some tips on how to deal with 6 of the most common (and most embarrassing) body issues people face!
1. Excess Sweat
We’ve all felt that mortifying feeling of having to raise your hand in a meeting or grab something off the top shelf at the grocery store fulling knowing you’re about to expose an armpit stain the size of Texas.
Or what about the uncomfortable feeling of sweat rolling down your back and soaking your shirt on your commute to work? Or even sweating underneath your winter coat with the knowledge that when you get where you’re going you’re going to be drenched in sweat.
The good news is there are steps you can take to stop excess sweat and make yourself a lot more comfortable. Try using clinical strength deodorant or even seeing a doctor to get a prescription deodorant made to stop perspiration.
You can also consider getting botox treatments in areas that sweat excessively like your armpits, hands, legs, and feet to completely stop sweating.
Also, make sure you’re wearing breathable and light clothing that can wick away moisture.
2. Acne
50 million Americans young and old experience some form of acne every year. Whether you get a spot once in a while or you suffer from chronic acne, your self-esteem can take a huge blow.
Resist the urge to pick and pop your pimples (say that 5 times fast). This can leave permanent scars, which is much worse than a week-long pimple breakout.
Focus on keeping your face clean and clear of excess oil. Try to avoid touching your face, as this can transfer dirt and oil from your hands directly into your pores, which can lead to breakouts.
You can also see a doctor to get special acne ointment, washes, and medications to fight off pesky pimples.
3. Yellow Teeth
Between coffee, acidic foods, red wine, and soda, chances are your teeth have a bit of staining on them. If you want that dazzling perfect smile you see on toothpaste commercials, you’re going to want to cut back on foods that can stain your teeth.
You’ll also want to be sure to maintain a dental hygiene routine that includes brushing at least twice per day, flossing daily, and seeing the dentist regularly. You can also get a teeth whitening treatment to really boost the whiteness.
4. Razor Bumps
Whether it’s your face, your legs, or your armpits, ridding yourself of body hair can lead to a whole new body issue: razor bumps. When you shave body hair, those shaved hairs eventually begin to grow back.
The problem is, when the hair grows back, it can become ingrown. This makes little bumps all over that we know as razor bumps.
Avoid razor bumps by using only sharp and fresh razors (dull blades can lead to bumps). You should also soften the hair pre-shave with warm water and moisturizing body wash/soap/shaving cream.
Read more here about how to prevent razor bumps the next time you want silky smooth legs or a fresh face shave.
5. Bags Under Your Eyes
Unless you’re going for the punk, skater, rock-n-roll, “I never sleep because the party never stops” look, undereye bags can bring down your entire aesthetic. They can make you look worn out and ill.
Cold compresses can reduce some of the puffiness underneath your eyes and alleviate the purple hue.
You can also prevent them from forming by making sure to stay hydrated throughout the day. This will not only help your undereye bags, but it will also help:
- Your skin
- Your hair
- Mood
- Energy
- Digestion
- Kidney function
You should be drinking roughly 2 liters of water every day.
6. B.O.
Body odor is a common fear, so much so that there is even a condition called “olfactory reference syndrome” where sufferers believe they are consistently emitting a foul smell. They become obsessed with reducing that smell with perfumes, multiple daily showers, and more.
While you might not be quite at that stage, it’s not uncommon to be afraid that you smell bad. And, let’s face it, sometimes we do smell bad (particularly after a sweaty, crowded commute or a long gym session).
We shouldn’t have to tell you to bathe or shower regularly, but we can tell you to get some handy “to go” hygiene items to have if you start to feel a bit on the stinky side. Portable deodorant and body sprays can be a lifesaver.
You can also start bringing extra outfits with you to change into after commutes or the gym. That way, if you’ve made your first outfit smell, you can put on some fresh, clean-smelling clothes and continue your day.
We’ve All Got Body Issues: What Are You Going to Do About Yours?
Everyone has insecurities and body issues that they want to fix. These 6 common problems are ones that you can easily take steps to fix or at least treat.
However, your main goal should be confident in yourself and your body no matter what you look like.
Self-confidence and building up your self-esteem is easier said than done. You might need a little help to get to a good, secure place. Check out this article on how a life coach could help you get there.