Doctors have issued a warning about a small area of the body that's frequently overlooked during everyday hygiene routines, despite being one of the dirtiest: behind the ears.
Why it's a problem area
Dr Roger Kapoor, a dermatologist and senior vice president at Beloit Memorial Hospital, said it's one of the most commonly neglected areas of the body. He explained that dirt, dead skin cells, and natural oils build up in skin creases, and the folds behind the ears are no exception, with the issue worsening in warmer months when sunscreen or lotion isn't fully washed off. Left unaddressed, this buildup can lead to bacterial infections, skin irritation, and an unpleasant odour. In more serious cases, it can contribute to seborrheic dermatitis, sometimes called ear eczema, which causes flaky, itchy patches in oil-prone areas of the skin.
A simple way to check
Dr Jen Caudle, a US-based family physician, offered a quick self-check: rub the area, then smell your fingers. If it smells unpleasant, it likely hasn't been washed recently.
Other commonly missed spots
Caudle also flagged several other areas people tend to overlook, including the belly button, fingernails, legs, and toes. She recommended keeping fingernails short and cleaning underneath them regularly with soap and water, noting that longer nails tend to trap more dirt and bacteria.
How to actually clean it properly
Kapoor noted that shampoo alone isn't enough to properly clean behind the ears, since hair products tend to rinse away too quickly to fully break down oil and bacteria in the area. He recommended direct scrubbing with a gentle soap, followed by thorough drying. He also suggested regularly cleaning the arms of eyeglasses, as they can transfer bacteria to the sensitive skin behind the ears.
