SCOUTING FOR GIRLS 
267 
moving unpleasant sights and smells, we are destroying 
the breeding places of disease. 
Every girl wants a clear skin. Proper food, water 
and exercise give this ; but it is also necessary to keep 
the surface clean by taking a hot bath with soap at least 
twice a week, and a cold or tepid sponge and rubdown 
the other days. Besides the loose dirt which comes on 
the body from the outside, perspiration and oil come 
from the inside through the skin pores, and when ac- 
cumulated give a disagreeable odor. Special attention is 
needed to guard against this odor, particularly under the 
armpits, and soap and water should be used daily. A 
hot bath is relaxing and opens the pores. A cold bath 
is stimulating and closes the pores. A hot bath is best 
taken at night, or if taken in the morning, follow by a 
cool sponge or shower. Do not take a cold plunge bath 
unless advised to do so by a physician. 
Always wash the hands immediately before handling 
or preparing food and before eating. Always wash 
hands after going to the bathroom. Keep nails short, 
and clean with nail brush each time the hands are washed 
and with orange stick when necessary. 
During menstruation it is particularly important to 
keep the body and clothes scrupulously clean, by bathing 
or washing with plenty of water. 
Hair — Air and a good brushing every day will keep 
the hair in good condition. It should be washed once 
in two weeks. Wash with hot soapsuds and rinse thor- 
oughly, using first hot, then cooler, and finally cold 
water. Keep the hair brush clean by washing in cold 
water and soap and a little ammonia at least once a 
week. The brush should be dried in the sun, not by 
artificial heat. 
Ears — Keep the outer surfaces of the ears clean, but 
