Body odor can be an unpleasant, embarrassing and frustrating element of the human condition. In most cases, sweating and its accompanying smell is harmless. According to the Mayo Clinic, body odor stems from your sweat glands which control your body temperature. In rare cases, extreme sweating (hyperhidrosis) or the inability to sweat normally (anhidrosis) may require special medical attention. But when it comes to everyday body odor, you can choose from a number of effective treatments available.
Considerations
Sweating is a normal response to exercise, hot temperatures and nervous tension. The degree to which someone sweats varies considerably. Your mood, diet, hormone levels and genetics all play a role in how much you sweat. While perspiration itself has no detectable odor, it can produce a disagreeable smell when it makes contact with bacteria on your skin.
Antiperspirants and Deodorants
Over-the-counter antiperspirants contain aluminum-based compounds that work by inhibiting the sweat pores. Deodorants are alcohol-based, causing your skin to become acidic and unappealing to bacteria. In stubborn cases of body odor, your doctor may recommend a prescription antiperspirant that contains aluminum chloride, such as Drysol or Xerac.
Additional Treatments
You might consider attacking body odor from the inside out. Chlorophyll tablets--made from the green pigment found in most plants--may also work to prevent odors. According to Medical News Today, Botulinum toxin can be an effective body odor solution in cases of excessive underarm sweating. The toxin works by intercepting the brain's signal to the sweat glands to release perspiration.
Time Frame
Antiperspirants and deodorants need to be applied once daily or more often if you have been physically active. Aluminum chloride is applied nightly and washed off each morning. Chlorophyll tablets are generally taken for a period of several weeks before they reduce odor. The effects of botulinum toxin treatments can last six to nine months.
Side Effects/Precautions
Antiperspirants may be irritating to the skin, especially in people who have eczema, are susceptible to razor burn and those who are prone to allergic reactions from fragrances. Do not apply antiperspirants near the mouth, nose, eyelids or genitals. Aluminum chloride may cause skin to become red, swollen and itchy. A number of possible side effects are associated with botulinum toxin. They include pain at the injection site, dry mouth, fatigue and headache.
Prevention/Solution
Daily bathing or showering can help keep skin bacteria to a minimum. Using an antibacterial soap on the armpits may also help. If foot odor is a concern, foot powders and odor-eating shoe inserts may help reduce the odor. Natural fiber clothing, such as wool, silk and cotton, allows your skin to breathe, thereby reducing perspiration.
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