How to Prevent Underarm Odor

How to Prevent Underarm Odor
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It can become quite the battle to suppress underarm odor,especially when the warmer weather hits. Sweat mingling with bacteria on the skin can produce a noticeable smell that can be difficult to hide. This odor can make for social awkwardness, weakened confidence and embarrassment if it isn’t controlled. Prevention is the best course of action keep underarm odor from becoming a much bigger problem than it needs to be. With a few precautionary measures to practice, underarm odor can be a thing of the past.

Step 1

Bathe daily making sure to wash especially well under your arms with an antibacterial soap to help kill off any bacteria that can contribute to odor later. Be sure to rinse your body completely to remove any residual soap off and pat your skin dry with a soft absorbent clean dry towel.

Step 2

Wear clean fresh clothing every day. Body odor can become trapped in the fibers of your clothing making you smell unclean even when you really are. If your clothes have taken on an unpleasant smell, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle next time you wash them to help kill off odors. Hanging them out to air day on a sunny day can also be helpful.

Step 3

Experiment with different types and brands of deodorant and antiperspirant until you find one that works best for you. If you tend to sweat a lot throughout the day, carry it with you and reapply it as needed. Applying baking soda under your arms is a natural alternative to commercial products for both absorbing excess moisture and odors.

Step 4

Drink enough water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and cool. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water each day should keep your body sufficiently hydrated. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine as both of which can potentially dehydrate you.

Step 5

Make changes to your diet to include eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and avoid things such as processed foods, exotic spices, garlic, onions, and red meat as these can all contribute to body odor.

Things You'll Need

  • Antibacterial soap
  • Clean dry towel
  • White vinegar
  • Antiperspirant or deodorant
  • Baking soda

References

Article reviewed by SaraJ Last updated on: Jul 15, 2010

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