Home Health & Life The Often-Forgotten Body Part: A Doctor’s Warning on Serious Health Risks

Health & Life

The Often-Forgotten Body Part: A Doctor’s Warning on Serious Health Risks

31 May, 2025

Behind the Ears: The “Blind Spot” in Daily Hygiene Routine

Among the areas of the body that need to be cleaned daily, the area behind the ears is often overlooked. Hidden behind our hair and out of plain sight, this area gradually becomes a “blind spot” in many people’s bathing routines.

According to Dr. Roger Kapoor, a dermatologist at the Beloit Health System (Wisconsin, USA), this area is prone to accumulating excess oil, dead skin cells, dirt, and sweat – creating an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. If left uncleaned, these factors can lead to infections, eczema, or, in more severe cases, sepsis.

Daily cleaning of the area behind the ears is a small step to prevent bacteria and serious skin conditions.

Why is the Area Behind the Ears Neglected?

Perhaps due to our habit of taking “quick and efficient” showers, we tend to focus only on visible areas such as the face, neck, hands, and feet, forgetting that the area behind the ears, although small, still produces sebum like other parts of the body.

Many people mistakenly believe that shampooing their hair will also clean the skin behind the ears. However, in reality, shampoo only briefly comes into contact with this area and is usually not sufficient for proper cleansing. Additionally, if you wear glasses, masks, or headphones for extended periods, the area behind the ears can become stuffy and moist, creating an ideal environment for fungi and bacteria to flourish.

Potential Consequences of Neglecting this Area

Eczema and Irritation

Doctors warn that dirt accumulation behind the ears can lead to eczema – a skin inflammation that causes redness, itching, and even cracking of the skin. This risk is especially high for children or individuals with sensitive skin.

Ear Piercing Infections

For those with ear piercings, the area behind the ears requires extra attention. The area around the piercing can easily become infected if not cleaned properly. In mild cases, there may be swelling and pain, but if left untreated, bacteria can enter the bloodstream.

Sepsis – A Serious Complication

Dr. Kapoor emphasizes: “Bacteria from a small inflamed area can spread throughout the body via the bloodstream, causing sepsis – an extremely dangerous condition that can lead to death if not treated promptly.”

Unpleasant Body Odor

One of the most noticeable signs is a distinctive foul odor behind the ears, resulting from active sebaceous glands that are not cleaned regularly. This odor can persist throughout the day, even after bathing, affecting one’s confidence in social interactions.

Neglecting this small area can lead to serious health issues if not cleaned properly.

How to Properly Clean the Area Behind the Ears

To protect your skin’s health, dedicate an extra 30 seconds each day to the area behind your ears by following these simple steps:

Use the tip of your finger to gently apply soap to the area behind your ears and the junction with your neck, then rinse with warm water.
When shampooing your hair, part your hair to one side to avoid obscuring this area, and ensure that shampoo and conditioner do not linger behind your ears.
For glasses wearers, remember to clean your glasses frames regularly, as they come into direct contact with this area and can transfer bacteria to the skin behind your ears.

Caring for Yourself in the Smallest Ways

Who would have thought that a simple act like cleaning behind your ears daily could help prevent serious health conditions? But it’s these small, meticulous habits that truly constitute comprehensive self-care.

Consider cleaning behind your ears as part of your daily “self-love ritual.” It only takes a few seconds, but it’s a crucial step towards maintaining your health, boosting your confidence, and avoiding unnecessary risks.