Underarm odor is caused by sweating, the mechanism in your body that keeps your body temperature regulated. Sweat glands are located all over your body, but those in your underarms present more of a problem when it comes to body odor. Clean armpits and deodorant or antiperspirant use are two things to keep in mind if you're searching for a solution to underarm odor.
Underarm Sweat
There are between 2 and 4 million sweat glands in your body, says the National Institutes of Health, many of which start to become extremely active during adolescence. There are two types of sweat glands: eccrine glands that are on the surface of almost all of your skin; the more troublesome apocrine glands, located in your armpits, as well as your scalp and groin, says the Mayo Clinic. Apocrine glands secrete a thicker, fattier type of sweat. When apocrine sweat mingles with the bacteria residing on the surface of your skin, it begins to break it down. The end result is the dreaded "B.O."
The Basics
If underarm odor is a problem, start by bathing or showering at least once a day using soap and water, advises the Mayo Clinic. Wash off again if you've worked up a good sweat after exercising or strenuous activity. Bathing is important because it washes away the presence of bacteria on your skin that are attractive to apocrine sweat. The hair in your armpits prevents sweat from drying, states MedicalNewsToday.Com. Keep your armpits cleanly shaven to cut down on underarm odor.
Antiperspirant v. Deodorant
A common solution for underarm odor is wearing antiperspirant or deodorant. However, these two odor fighters work in different ways. Deodorant is higher in alcohol content, which neutralizes the bacteria on your skin, states the Mayo Clinic. Many deodorants are also perfumed, which masks the smell of your sweat. Deodorant won't keep you from sweating, whereas antiperspirant will. Antiperspirants contain ingredients that temporarily block the sweat pores, thus reducing sweating--and undesirable body odor. According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society, antiperspirants that contain 10 or 15 percent aluminum chloride hexahydrate can successfully eliminate underarm odor in people who sweat excessively.
Proper Use
Antiperspirants can be irritating. The IHS recommends waiting until your underarms are completely dry before using them. Also, you might get better results by changing the time of day when you apply antiperspirant. According to the IHS, research indicates that using antiperspirant in the morning and evening, or only in the evening, yielded better results than using it only in the morning.
Other Options
If you can't get underarm odor under control, see your doctor. The Mayo Clinic states that there are prescription antiperspirants that contain higher concentrations of aluminum chloride, such as Drysol and Xerac. Small lifestyle adjustments may also be helpful. Wear clothing made of natural, breathable fibers, such as cotton, wool and silk. Certain types of food and drinks can also make your sweat smell more pungent. The Mayo Clinic suggests avoiding caffeine as well as spicy, odiferous dishes, such as those that are heavy on garlic or onions.
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