Beware of navel stone
Wash your belly button properly
The belly button is often overlooked when it comes to hygiene.
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Most people don’t pay attention to their belly button. He deserves it: lack of care can have unpleasant consequences.
It is perhaps the most neglected part of the body: the belly button. When we shower, we like to leave out the small part of our body on our stomach. The belly button no longer has any function in adulthood – it is a remnant of the umbilical cord, through which we are supplied with blood, oxygen and nutrients in the womb. However, if we neglect it, it can have consequences for us have health.
Because it is hidden between the folds of the stomach and the skin, the belly button is easy to miss when showering. However, it is also the ideal environment for bacterial growth. Over time, dead skin cells, sweat and sebum, as well as possibly small lint from clothing, accumulate in the belly button. If these are not removed over a longer period of time, umbilical stones can form.
Umbilical stone – also known medically as omphalolith – is a solid, brown or black structure that is difficult to remove and can lead to inflammation. The problem: It can be painful and is not easy to remove.
Remove navel stone
Under no circumstances should you try to remove the stone by “force”. It can become anchored to the surrounding skin, causing injury if you simply try to scratch or pull it off. First, the navel stone should be softened with a little oil (such as baby oil) – this takes about two to three days. Simply apply the oil gently with a cotton swab.
If the navel stone has softened, it should be easy to remove with tweezers. Then rinse your belly button thoroughly with warm water and dry it.
If you have injured the skin on your belly button during removal or cannot completely remove the navel stone, you should consult a doctor.
Clean your belly button properly
Preventing navel stones – and other inflammations of the belly button – is very simple: When showering, simply clean it carefully with your finger with a little water and mild soap and then gently pat it dry.