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5 Tips to Avoid Cellulitis

Cellulitis, also known as staph infections, are caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus and are skin infections that usually occur on the legs and lower arms. The infection may feel like a sudden boil or pimple, often forming an ugly sore that gets redder and larger before bursting or draining pus. If left untreated, cellulitis can spread to the deeper tissues of your body and even become fatal if it gets into your bloodstream. Here are five tips to avoid getting cellulitis in the first place so you don’t have to worry about it again.

1) Change your shampoo and conditioner

Did you know that conventional shampoo and conditioner strips your hair of natural oils? Even worse, it often contains harmful chemicals that can contribute to cellulitis. Switching over to a sulfate-free, chlorine-free option is one of the simplest ways you can help avoid cellulitis. Organic options are best (look for certified organic on your label). If you are going all natural with your shampoo, opt for a cleansing conditioner rather than traditional conditioning products. These contain aloe vera, essential oils and other natural ingredients that will keep both hair and scalp healthy.

2) Drink Plenty of Water

Dehydration can cause a number of health problems. Don’t skimp on water—you need it to help your body flush out toxins and keep up your energy level. Your skin is largely made up of water, too; inadequate hydration can make your skin dry and brittle, which makes you more susceptible to getting cellulitis or other infections in your skin. To avoid cellulitis and stay healthy, drink six glasses of water each day. If you don’t like drinking plain water, add fresh lemon juice or fresh fruit slices for flavor. Be careful not to overdo it on sugary drinks or alcohol (particularly beer), though—they both dehydrate you!

3) Wear Sunscreen

Although it may seem like a no-brainer, too many of us don’t do it. Sunscreen is a must for all skin types, especially those prone to cellulite and cellulitis. Wear it not only in summer but year-round. The rays can damage skin even in winter so keep it up! 

4) Exfoliate Regularly

Make sure you’re exfoliating at least once a week to slough off dead skin cells and release toxins from your body. Exfoliation not only clears up your complexion but improves lymphatic circulation, which can help rid yourself of cellulite in a natural way. Look for products that contain glycolic acid or retinol—they work by smoothing out rough skin, increasing elasticity, and clearing away pores clogged with oil and impurities. Try an exfoliator with smooth beads in it, such as a sugar scrub.

5) Don’t Smoke

Smoking puts you at a greater risk of getting cellulitis, which makes sense considering nicotine constricts blood vessels. If you’re addicted, talk to your doctor about programs or apps that can help you quit. You may also want to consider trying e-cigarettes. While they still contain nicotine and should be used with caution, they don’t involve burning tobacco (which is linked to lung cancer) and are said to be less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes.

Conclusion
Cellulitis is not a disease you want to get. The key is prevention and knowing how to take care of your body. It’s important that you have good health habits so when infections do come up, they can be treated properly and quickly with little danger of them recurring. To avoid cellulitis, practice cleanliness and good hygiene daily. Washing your hands before eating helps eliminate bacteria (which causes infections). You should also focus on having regular dental visits so that bacteria doesn’t linger in your mouth and spread throughout your body.