While you may think perspiration is the chief cause of underarm odor, it is bacteria that live on the skin that are to blame. When the bacteria interact with sweat, the bacteria cause the sweat molecules to break down into acids, releasing certain smells into the air. Because there are high concentrations of sweat glands known as apocrine glands underneath the armpit, this area may be more prone than others to body odors. Most over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle modifications can help you find relief from underarm odor, which can reduce your social anxieties.
Step 1
Shower at night before you go to bed, washing the underarms with an antibacterial soap. This will help to reduce the number of bacteria underneath the arm, which can reduce odors.
Step 2
Shave your armpits regularly if possible. Underarm hair can contribute to odor by keeping sweat from evaporating away from the armpits. Shaving regularly or utilizing some other hair removal method can help to better control underarm odor.
Step 3
Dry your skin thoroughly, and apply an antiperspirant to the underarms. Antiperspirants use active ingredients, such as aluminum chloride and aluminum chlorohydrate, to penetrate the skin and keep the sweat ducts from producing as much sweat. Applying them at night is ideal, because this allows plenty of time for your body to absorb the antiperspirant.
Step 4
Wash off the antiperspirant in the morning, then swipe a cotton ball dipped in witch hazel and white or apple cider vinegar over the armpit. This will help to adjust the pH balance of your armpit, creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria to grow.
Step 5
Apply a deodorant. While deodorants do not stop sweating like antiperspirants do, because you have already applied an antiperspirant, the deodorant can help to mask odors, thus reducing underarm odor.
Step 6
Wear loose, natural-fiber clothing during the day. Natural fibers do not restrict your skin and hold in sweat. Choose fibers such as cotton, silk and wool to reduce underarm odor.
Things You'll Need
- Antiperspirant
- Deodorant
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