Kissing someone with a moustache might seem like a charming, intimate experience, but one doctor has raised concerns about the hidden risks that facial hair can bring to your skin and health. While we’re all familiar with the idea that kissing can spread germs like cold sores and flu, the presence of facial hair, specifically moustaches and beards, introduces a new level of concern. This warning becomes even more relevant as facial hair continues to rise in popularity. So, should you rethink those passionate kisses? Let’s dive into the potential risks.
Bacteria, Beards, and Breakouts: What’s Really Going On?
We all love the soft feeling of a lover’s lips, but if they come with a moustache, things can get a little more complicated. Dr. Myro Figura, a medical expert, took to social media to explain the surprising risks of kissing someone with unkempt facial hair. His unsettling warning suggests that kissing men with facial hair may expose you to skin infections, especially if the moustache is not properly maintained.
How Facial Hair Can Cause Skin Infections
Facial hair, like beards and moustaches, is a breeding ground for bacteria, particularly staphylococcus (staph) and streptococcus (strep), which are common culprits behind skin infections. When the skin gets irritated during kissing, small breaks or cuts can appear, allowing these bacteria to enter and cause infections like impetigo.
Dr. Figura emphasizes that when the skin breaks down due to the rubbing of facial hair, it opens the door for bacteria to invade. This can lead to painful and contagious infections. So, the next time you lock lips with a man sporting a ‘stache, you might want to ask yourself: “Is this moustache clean enough?”
Video : This infection from a kiss?
What is Impetigo and How Does it Affect You?
Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that can be caused by the bacteria found in facial hair. According to the NHS, impetigo typically begins as small sores or blisters. These blisters burst and form crusty patches or scabs, often resembling “cornflakes stuck to your skin.” Although impertigo is generally not serious, it is uncomfortable and can spread to other areas of the body, leading to itching and sometimes pain.
Impetigo is most common in children but can certainly affect adults, especially if they have contact with unclean facial hair. While it’s not typically severe, the infection can take up to 10 days to clear up with treatment, which may involve antibiotic creams or, in some cases, oral antibiotics. For milder cases, a hydrogen peroxide cream can sometimes help speed up recovery.
How to Protect Your Skin: Tips from Dermatologists
While Dr. Figura’s warning may have made you pause, that doesn’t mean you should avoid kissing men with moustaches altogether. With a few precautions, you can minimize the risks and still enjoy those kisses without worrying about the consequences.
1. Keep the Moustache Clean
The first and most obvious tip is to ensure that your partner maintains good hygiene. Regular washing of the moustache with a gentle cleanser can significantly reduce the buildup of bacteria, making it less likely that an infection will develop. It’s essential that facial hair, like the skin, is regularly cleaned and maintained to avoid harboring bacteria.
2. Exfoliate and Moisturize Your Skin
Taking care of your own skin is equally important. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, which can minimize irritation when kissing. Moisturizing your skin is another key step—hydrated skin is less likely to crack, making it less vulnerable to bacteria entering through small cuts or abrasions.
3. Be Mindful of Skin Sensitivity
If you notice that your skin reacts poorly after kissing someone with a moustache, don’t ignore it. Take the time to let your skin heal and avoid further irritation before engaging in any more kissing. If necessary, consult a dermatologist to ensure that your skin’s sensitivity isn’t a result of an underlying condition like eczema or allergic reactions to facial hair care products.
Does Your Partner’s Moustache Pass the Hygiene Test?
While it may seem like an awkward question to ask your partner, it’s worth checking on the cleanliness of their moustache. Beard care is essential to keeping bacteria at bay and ensuring that both you and your partner stay safe from infections. If they’re unwilling to clean their moustache, it may be time to reconsider the risks.
The Rising Trend of Facial Hair and Its Hidden Risks
Video : How to Kiss with a Beard
Facial hair has seen a huge resurgence in recent years, with moustaches, beards, and goatees becoming fashionable once again. However, this rise in popularity also brings attention to the potential health risks associated with unkempt facial hair. It’s important to note that while most people maintain their facial hair well, there’s still a significant portion who may neglect proper hygiene, unknowingly increasing their risk for bacterial infections like impetigo.
As facial hair remains trendy, it’s important to keep these hidden risks in mind, especially when intimate contact, like kissing, is involved. If you’re in a relationship with someone who sports facial hair, ensure that both parties are aware of these potential health concerns and take proactive steps to minimize the risks.
Conclusion: Kissing and Facial Hair – What You Need to Know
While kissing someone with a moustache doesn’t mean you’re automatically exposing yourself to harmful bacteria, it’s essential to be aware of the risks involved. Maintaining proper hygiene, regular cleaning, and paying attention to your own skin health can go a long way in preventing skin infections like impetigo. The next time you lean in for a kiss, don’t be afraid to ask the important question: “How often do you wash that thing?” By staying informed and taking a few precautions, you can enjoy your kisses without worrying about the potential risks of facial hair. Your skin will thank you!
