Perspiration itself is almost odorless, but it produces an unpleasant odor if it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin. Everyone has some body odor, but the amount of body odor you produce depends on factors such as heredity and the amount of exercise you get. Dramatic changes in your perspiration levels and body odor may signal an underlying medical problem, but if you want to control normal body odor, some basic lifestyle changes and treatments should do the trick.
Showering
Showering daily and showering after sweating profusely can help keep down the bacteria on your skin that lead to body odor in areas such as your scalp, armpits, genitals and feet. Health Services at Columbia University recommends soaping up with a product that contains deodorant and antibacterial properties.
Rotating Footwear
Having wet shoes and socks can cause your feet to produce extra odor. If your feet are prone to sweating, rotate your shoes so that you don’t wear the same pair from one day to the next, says the Mayo Clinic. While you should also be changing your socks or pantyhose every day, you may also want to change them partway through the day and dry your feet between pairs, says the Mayo Clinic.
Foot Care
Keep your feet as dry as possible to reduce the amount of sweat they produce in your shoes. Start by completely drying your feet any time you get them wet and use an over-the-counter foot powder to absorb some of the sweat, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Also, whenever possible, wear sandals or go barefoot to expose your feet to air.
Natural Fabrics
Wear natural fabrics such as cotton, silk and wool--even on your feet--to give your skin a chance to breathe. A synthetic exercise outfit fabric can effectively wick your sweat away from your skin when you plan to participate in strenuous activity, according to Health Services at Columbia University.
Dietary Changes
Alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and foods such as onions, garlic, curry and similar strong spices can contribute to excessive sweating and pungent body odor, says Health Services at Columbia University. Eliminate one of these common contributors at a time to determine whether it could be contributing to your body odor. Also, focus on eating a balanced diet with whole grains, lean sources of protein and dairy and five fruits and vegetables a day. Moreover, one surefire way to reduce some body odor is to completely eliminate your intake of tobacco.
Antiperspirants
Antiperspirants contain compounds that block sweat from leaving your pores, says the Mayo Clinic. Antiperspirants are also commonly scented to override any odor you may produce despite the controlled sweating. If store-bought antiperspirants don’t work for you, consult your doctor and he may prescribe a more potent one.
Deodorants
If sweating isn’t a problem for you, you may consider using a deodorant. Deodorants don’t prevent you from sweating, but they often mask odors with perfume and they typically contain alcohol. The alcohol-based formula makes your skin less attractive to bacteria, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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