“Wash Behind Your Ears”: Dermatologists Warn This Forgotten Spot Can Harbor Dirt, Sweat, and Smell

When it comes to personal hygiene, there’s one area that often gets overlooked and experts say it’s time to stop ignoring it. The skin behind your ears, while easy to forget, is one of the body’s most neglected areas and can become surprisingly dirty if not properly cleaned.

“I always recommend people wash the skin behind their ears intentionally and specifically to get into the creases of where the ear meets your skin, as it can always trap grime,” said Dr. Roger Kapoor, dermatologist and senior vice president at Beloit Memorial Hospital, in an interview with Parade.

While the inside of the ear is mostly self-cleaning, the outer parts especially behind the ears can accumulate sweat, oils, dirt, and even bacteria. This issue becomes especially important during summer months when sunscreen and sweat can gather in those crevices and remain unwashed, leading to further irritation.

One study that investigated bacteria in frequently overlooked body parts found that the area behind the ears ranked high for hosting a variety of germs including potentially infection-causing bacteria.

If not cleaned regularly, buildup behind the ears can irritate the skin and even cause conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or ear eczema. These are inflammatory skin issues that can result in red, itchy, flaky, or waxy patches. In some rare cases, cracked or broken skin from these conditions can allow bacteria to enter, which may lead to serious infections.

And there’s also a social aspect to consider. Skipping this step in your hygiene routine can lead to unpleasant body odor. The combination of sweat and the natural oils secreted by sebaceous glands behind the ears can create a particularly strong, unpleasant smell.

Experts recommend a simple solution: give the area behind your ears a dedicated scrub with soap and water every time you shower. It’s a small step that can make a big difference for your skin health and your confidence.

Additionally, for those who wear glasses, it’s important to clean not just the lenses but also the arms of your glasses, which rest against the skin and can contribute to dirt buildup behind the ears.

So next time you’re in the shower, take the extra moment your ears will thank you.

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