We rarely realize how many times we touch our face. And at the same time, we touch everything around us. In this way, we are transferring germs to our face, mouth, nose and eyes. What can we do to overcome this habit? We will tell you:

Humans are the only species that touch their face without any specific need and without even realizing it. By becoming conscious of this habit, we can do up to 23 repetitions per hour, which is once every 2,6 minutes, according to a study by the University of New South Wales.

On the other hand, in 2012, a team of American and Brazilian researchers discovered that a randomly selected sample of people touched surfaces in public spaces more than three times per hour.

This recurrent habit would not be a cause for concern if we were not in contact with an environment inhabited by hundreds of germs and bacteria. In terms of disease transmission, this situation represents an Achilles heel. Combating it is undoubtedly an urgent need.

Public health and professional bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), say the practice is becoming increasingly dangerous.

Michael Hallsworth, a behavioural researcher and professor at Columbia University in the US, explains that it is extremely difficult to take action on this in practice. However, there are five ideas to start making these movements conscious and try to fight the habit.

Tips to avoid touching your face:

1. Have a box of disposable tissues on hand:

Whenever you feel the urge to scratch, rub your nose, or adjust your glasses, grab a tissue and use it instead of your fingers.

You can also use a perfume, cream or lotion that can help remind you that if you bring your hand close to your nose, it is best to move it away quickly.

2. Identify what triggers it:

It is best to take breaks throughout the day and identify what happens that triggers this practice.

For example, if your hair is uncomfortable, tie it back. Using eye drops prevents you from touching your eyes. If it is due to a position, you should avoid doing so. Or if your glasses fall off, you need to adjust them correctly.

3. Keep your hands busy.

A stress ball or different stress relievers to keep your hands busy when they are not on the keyboard.

4. Calm down.

Taking deep breaths, being aware of situations that trigger stress, and trying to find activities that generate calm will lead to a decrease in the number of times you touch your face.

5. Digital tools:

donttouchyourface.com is a website that helps you count and track how many times you touch your face. This tool works through your webcam and sends alerts every time it detects that you are touching your face. Its goal is to help you reduce the habit of touching your face with your hands over time.

Let's get to work and get out of our faces!