Body odor is the result of sweat mingling with bacteria on the skin. Thus, steps to avoid body odor are primarily geared toward reducing either perspiration or bacteria. While perfectly natural, body odor is an embarrassing problem, even causing social anxiety and depression in severe cases. Body odor can also indicate underlying medical concerns. If you experience a sudden change in body odor or the amount that you sweat, if you begin to inexplicably perspire at night or if you find your sweating or body odor interferes with your daily activities, consult your doctor, advises MayoClinic.com.
Step 1
Use an antiperspirant made with aluminum chloride hexahydrate, preferably with a 10 to 15 percent concentration, which contains a deodorant. These products are highly effective at reducing armpit perspiration, advises MedlinePlus. For best results, apply them shortly before you go to sleep. Wash them off in the morning and then re-apply.
Step 2
Take a bath or shower every day with a deodorizing soap and warm water. This basic of proper hygiene goes a long way toward limiting body odor-causing bacteria on the skin. Cleansing after sweating is beneficial as well. When lathering, pay particular attention to the scalp, underarms, chest, groin and feet.
Step 3
Dry your feet completely after bathing, especially between the toes. The area between the toes is ideal for bacteria growth when damp, points out MayoClinic.com.
Step 4
Wear loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics such as silk and cotton that allow the skin to breathe. Synthetic and heavy materials keep sweat and bacteria on the skin, and are likely to hold odors in their fabrics.
Step 5
Change your socks, pantyhose and undergarments at least once a day and after perspiring. Rotate your shoes from day to day so they have adequate time to dry and air out. Also, go barefoot when possible to let your feet air out, suggests MayoClinic.com.
Step 6
Eliminate garlic, onions, curry and other potent-smelling foods and spices from your diet, advises Columbia University's Go Ask Alice website. The same goes for alcohol and tobacco, which can contribute to body odor. Limit caffeine consumption as well, as it can promote sweating.
Step 7
Keep your hair short and shave your underarms and groin. Hair holds dirt and bacteria and inhibits the evaporation of sweat, reports Medical News Today. It can also interfere with thorough cleansing.
Step 8
Consume foods high in zinc and magnesium, as deficiencies are known to cause body odor problems, according to Columbia University, which also suggests adding chlorophyll to your diet. Supplements can help with odor, as can wheat grass juice, parsley, alfalfa and leafy green vegetables.
Step 9
Talk to your doctor about excessive perspiration that you can't control. You may have a condition called hyperhidrosis. Treatments include prescription antiperspirants, medications, botox injections, a procedure using electrical currents to interfere with the sweat glands known as iontophoresis and a surgical procedure called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, explains MedlinePlus.
Tips and Warnings
- Natural home remedies that can help stave off body odor when applied to the underarms include witch hazel, white cider vinegar, tea tree oil and rosemary oil, according to Columbia University.
Things You'll Need
- Aluminum chloride hexahydrate antiperspirant/deodorant
- Deodorant soap
- Chlorophyll supplements
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