You have body odor when the bacteria on your skin break down the acids in your sweat. This condition is medically known as bromhidrosis. Body odor is common during puberty when the apocrine sweat glands develop. This type of sweat is easier to break down. Because men sweat more than women, they are more prone to body odor.
What may cause your body odor to get worse?
Besides genders, there are certain things that can make you smell bad:
- Being overweight
- Spicy food and beverages (alcohol, garlic, and other spices)
- Medications (antidepressants, for example)
- Health conditions. (Diabetic people often have a fruity smell while those with liver or kidney disease may smell like bleach.)
When sweating is a cause for concern
Excessive sweating may be caused by a condition called hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis can result in foot odor as well. Certain shoes or socks may make it hard for sweat to evaporate or be absorbed, forming an ideal environment for bacteria.
If you begin to sweat more than you often do, or if your odor changes in any way, you should seek medical help.
Dealing with body odor
Body odor stems from sweating and bacteria. So, getting rid of bad skin bacteria and keeping the armpits clean and dry usually solve the problem. Here are some tips to do that:
Shower at least once a day
It’s important to keep yourself clean, especially the areas with many sweat glands. A thorough shower will help you wash away sweat and bacteria.
Use an antibacterial soap
Antibacterial soaps are designed to keep bacteria at bay. You will benefit from using them on a regular basis.
Dry yourself properly
After showering, you should use a towel to dry your body completely. Focus on areas prone to sweat. Bacteria often have difficulty growing on dry skin.
Use a strong deodorant or antiperspirant
Antiperspirants are formulated with aluminum chloride, a substance that is able to reduce sweating. Antiperspirants may help cover bad smell as well. Deodorants, on the other hand, only mask the smell on your skin without interfering with sweating. You can get good deodorants and antiperspirants without prescription. Use your deodorant or antiperspirant twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. However, if you find those over-the-counter ineffective, you may talk to your doctor to get prescribed antiperspirants.
Change your clothes regularly
Fresh and clean clothes will help you control your body odor. If you have foot odor, don’t forget to change your socks, too. Deodorants are available in powders. Use them in your shoes to tame the smell. The insoles should be changes frequently. If possible, go barefoot.
Source: Article contributed by hellodoktor.com.
Read also: Four Best Ways To Apply Deodorant
