Strong underarm odor typically results from bacterial buildup or excessive sweating. Excessive underarm sweating can be caused by a condition known as hyperhidrosis. But it might also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, liver disorder, parasitic infection, metabolic dysfunction or others, so it's advisable to seek diagnosis from a medical professional, says Health911. There are an array of remedies for underarm odor, and their efficacy varies among individuals.
Bathing
Washing your armpits is the most important remedy for underarm odor, according to University of Iowa dermatology professor Kenzo Sato. Underarms should be cleansed daily and after perspiring with warm water and a deodorizing soap. Scrubbing the underarms with a washcloth is more effective than lathering with your hands, according to Health911. A few cups of tomato juice added to a 15-minute bath also reduces body odor, says Alice Kilpatrick, a staff nurse at the Veterans Administration Hospital.
Antiperspirants
Commercial deodorants are generally sufficient to cover up underarm odor, says Massachusetts College of Pharmacy's Hridaya Bhargava, Ph.D., professor of industrial pharmacy. But remedying underarm odor requires more than simply masking it; it requires an effective antiperspirant. Clinical-strength products made with 10 to 15 percent aluminum chloride hexahydrate are the most effective at blocking underarm sweating, according to MedlinePlus. These should be applied at night and again in the morning.
Antiperspirant Alternative
If you suffer from irritated skin or rashes when using strong deodorants or antiperspirants, there is an alternative: an over-the-counter topical antibiotic cream. Dermatologist Dr. Randall Hrabko points out that this offers the same effect as deodorants and antiperspirants without the ingredients that commonly cause irritation.
Hyperhidrosis Treatments
When hyperhidrosis causes excessive underarm perspiration, the condition must be treated to remedy strong armpit odor. If clinical-strength antiperspirants don't suffice, other treatments are available. Anticholinergic medications can help, as can iontophoresis, a procedure using electrical currents to temporarily shut down the sweat glands. Botox injections are also an option.
Folk Remedies
There are many folk remedies for underarm odor, though their use is based more on tradition than scientific evidence of effectiveness. Some of those recommended by Health911 include substituting alcohol or witch hazel for your deodorant, or wiping the underarms with white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, baking soda, baby powder, turnip juice, radish juice, rosemary oil or tea tree oil. Supplementing with chlorophyll, magnesium, B vitamins or zinc is also suggested by the site.
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