Do you really know? Should I be cleaning my belly button?
Jan 30, 2025
Dive into the surprisingly dirty world of belly buttons! Discover why this often neglected body part can be a breeding ground for bacteria, housing over sixty species of fungi and microbes. Find out how belly buttons form and tackle the age-old question of how to keep them clean. Plus, get answers to quirky queries like why they can sometimes smell bad and if lotion is necessary. This brief exploration promises to shed light on an overlooked aspect of personal hygiene!
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Belly Button Microbiome
- Belly buttons accumulate dead skin, fibers, soap, and sweat.
- This creates a haven for over 60 species of fungi, yeasts, and bacteria.
Belly Button Formation
- The belly button forms from the umbilical cord stump after birth.
- 'Innies' collect more dirt than 'outies', especially in men with abdominal hair.
Belly Button Odor
- Bacteria in the belly button generate smelly molecules, causing odor.
- This diverse microbiome can vary greatly in quantity and type.