Why getting your hands dirty is good for you

Contact with soil, plants, and natural materials increases the diversity and abundance of beneficial microbes on our skin, which strengthens our immune system and protects against harmful bacteria. Research shows that even brief contact—such as rubbing hands with soil for 20 seconds—significantly boosts skin microbial diversity, though frequent or prolonged exposure to nature would provide greater benefits. This suggests that getting hands dirty through regular interaction with natural environments is a simple way to improve both skin and immune health.