It’s tough being a woman.

If you don’t agree with me, you’re likely a man.

I’m just sharing facts!

We women have many daily routines. In addition to essential grooming like bathing and teeth brushing, we have numerous complex procedures to manage.

After shampooing, we need to condition because, well, this hair length needs more than just a regular hairbrush. And merely washing your face doesn’t cut it.

Oh no.

After that, it’s time for exfoliation to keep those pesky blackheads away. Then, a toner to shrink those pores is a must. You’ll need sunscreen during the day or a night cream for the evening. If you’re feeling fancy, a face serum is great. And don’t forget the zit cream because, well, breakouts happen, and that’s just unfair!

Let’s not even begin with waxing, bras, and the joy of menstruation (note the sarcasm). That’s a rant for another day. The truth is, women face challenges, but we’ve developed habits over the years to look our best. However, some of these habits might be doing more harm than good. It’s time to realize this.

1. Using the same menstrual pad all day.

Image: Shutterstock

At times, a heavy flow requires pad changes every 2-3 hours, while there are other times when such light spotting makes you think your period has almost disappeared.

You hope it’s over, but it’s like a horror movie killer – you think they’re gone, but they just keep coming back.

This is when women keep using their lightly spotted pad, thinking it’s okay to be thrifty, right?

Wrong.

Experts recommend changing sanitary towels every 5 hours. This helps prevent potential infections and the growth of microorganisms in the warm, used pad.

CAUTION: If you’re using tampons, it’s crucial to change them regularly, as extended use can increase the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), which can be life-threatening.

2.Using soap to wash the vagina.

Image: Shutterstock

We understand the need for cleanliness down there, but using soap on your vaginal area isn’t the best approach. Experts recommend using water or avoiding douching. The harsh chemicals in soap can disrupt the natural, delicate pH of your vagina, leading to itching and unnecessary dryness.

Ironically, using soap for cleansing can actually harm the population of beneficial bacteria (which provide natural protection) in your vagina, increasing the risk of developing bacterial vaginosis.(2, 3).

3. Sleeping with a bra.

Image: Shutterstock

Contrary to what our mothers may have told us, not wearing a bra doesn’t cause sagging breasts. In fact, it’s quite the opposite, and science supports this.

A study by the University of Besançon in France, which tracked women for 15 years, revealed that bras were not a true necessity. According to Prof. Rouillon, one of the lead researchers, “Medically, physiologically, anatomically – breasts gain no benefit from being denied gravity. On the contrary, they get saggier with a bra.”

The study found that the “support” of a bra for women aged 18 to 35 led to a weakening of their chest muscles, causing their breasts to sag over time. Conversely, those who chose not to wear a bra showed 7mm less sagging in comparison.

4. Applying deodorant directly to our skin.

Image: Shutterstock

Research suggests that the common practice of spraying deodorant directly on the skin could be associated with the risk of breast cancer. Deodorants often contain harmful chemicals like aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and triclosan. When applied directly to the skin, these chemicals have the potential to enter your bloodstream. While wanting to smell clean and fresh is completely understandable, it’s safer to spray deodorant on your clothing instead.

5. Facing the sun without any protection.

Image: Shutterstock

In our busy lives, we might skip sunscreen and choose to face the sun without any protection. However, the tales of sun damage are not myths created by skincare companies for profit. They are very much real and quite frightening. Going without sun protection not only increases the risk of skin cancer but also speeds up the process of premature aging. (7, 8, 9, 10, 11).

So, there you have it, five daily habits that many women are guilty of practicing and should consider changing. Being a woman can be challenging, but we’re resilient. Stay strong, sisters!