Strong body odor, or bromidrosis, is a common problem that affects many people. Although not typically harmful to your physical health, bad body odor can have an affect on your social life and career. Body odor can result from a variety of factors and behaviors, but regardless of its causes, there are several ways that you can help reduce its overall effects.
Step 1
Apply a deodorant to your underarms. Deodorants use active fragrance ingredients to cover up the natural smell of body odor. Reapply as needed throughout the day, especially after activities that cause you to sweat.
Step 2
Apply an antiperspirant to your underarms. Antiperspirants use active ingredients, such as aluminium chlorohydrate or aluminium zirconium tetrachlorohydrex GLY, to not only cover up body odor, but also temporarily block your sweat pores. Unlike deodorant, antiperspirant should be applied at night before you go to bed, states the International Hyperhidrosis Society. Because you sweat less at night, there is a better chance that the antiperspirant will be absorbed into the skin then as opposed to while you are actively sweating during the day.
Step 3
Bathe and change your clothing at least once a day or more if you have problems with excessive sweating, such as hyperhidrosis. Bathing removes bacteria and sweat that can be causing and harboring bad odors. Clothing can hold body smells, making it important to change into clean clothing after bathing, instead of putting the same clothing back on.
Step 4
Use a talcum or baby powder in your underwear and shoes, being sure to lightly coat both your genitals and the cleft of your buttock. Talcum powders absorb sweat and help alleviate odors in common problem areas, especially when applied before performing physical activities when you know you are going to sweat.
Step 5
Avoid foods that can add to your body odor, such as onions and garlic. When you digest certain foods with stronger odors, these odors can manifest themselves again in your sweat, and may also linger on your breath. Limit or completely cut these foods from your diet to help prevent these odors from being a problem.
Step 6
Talk to your doctor about surgical sweat gland removal. When all other options have failed, your doctor may recommend removing sweat glands in problem areas of your body. By removing sweat glands, you remove the main source of food for the bacteria on your skin that contribute to body odor. However, your body may compensate by causing you to sweat more in other areas of the body.
Things You'll Need
- Deodorant
- Antiperspirant
- Talcum powder
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