BATHS 363 



Hygiene of the Skin. 



The various excretions of the skin tend constantly to 

 deposit increasing layers of waste on its surface. The 

 accumulation of this waste clogs the pores and prevents 

 the escape of further wastes. Since these wastes must 

 leave the body somewhere, the result is the overworking 

 of the kidneys and lungs, while the lack of water evapora- 

 tion permits an excessive increase of body temperature. 

 If, however, the pores are clogged with material which 

 conducts heat there results a lowering of body temperature 

 that produces death when any considerable portion of the 

 skin has been painted or varnished. 



To avoid any of these dangers, it is evidently imperative 

 that the skin be bathed frequently, and thus the excess 

 of waste removed and the pores kept open. Cleanliness 

 of person, therefore, becomes one of the first laws of health. 



Baths. — The oily secretions and the grimed-in dirt require 

 more than the mere application of cold water for their removal. 

 Soap contains an alkali which dissolves these oils and loosens the 

 dirt. On this account exposed parts of the body should be 

 washed with soap and warm water at least three times a day, 

 and the whole body at least once a week. Care, however, must 

 be taken in selection of the soap used, as many contain an excess 

 of alkali which tends to injure the skin. Baths not only serve to 

 cleanse the skin, but, if properly taken, tend to strengthen and 

 invigorate the whole system. For this purpose a cold bath is 

 better than a warm one, since warm baths tend to open the 

 poies more widely, to dilate the skin arteries, and thus increase the 

 perspiration and render the body liable to colds. On the other 

 hand, cold baths tend to contract the arteries at first, leaving the 

 skin pallid. This effect is soon followed by a reaction, the arteries 

 fill with blood, and the skin begins to glow. This glow may be 

 increased by a thorough rubbing with a rough towel which at 



