According to the Mayo Clinic, body odor results from the bacterial breakdown of fatty sweat secreted by the apocrine glands. Apocrine glands are sweat glands found along areas of the body with denser hair growth, such as the armpits or groin. To stop this body odor, most people benefit from simple self-care measures, including deodorants and creams.
Step 1
Bathe each day, urges the Mayo Clinic. Bathing each day can often help to prevent body odor by managing the amount of bacteria on the skin.
Step 2
Shower after exercise. Even if you've already bathed for the day, shower after exercise, especially when you break a sweat. As the sweat dries and breaks down, it can cause body odor.
Step 3
Use a deodorant. Deodorants not only contain fragrances that cover up body odor, but also contain alcohol that can make the skin slightly acidic, advises the Mayo Clinic. This can reduce the bacteria along these areas of the skin, and thereby help to prevent body odor.
Step 4
Invest in a deodorant with an antiperspirant. Deodorants with an antiperspirant contain the fragrance and alcohol of standard deodorants along with compounds that block the pores secreting sweat. This reduces the perspiration needed to initiate the bacterial breakdown responsible for the body odor. They're available in sticks, roll-ons, sprays and creams, according to the Nemours Foundation.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor about a prescription antiperspirant. If over-the-counter deodorants or antiperspirants fail to prevent body odor, you may need a prescription antiperspirant that can better manage your condition. This type of medication is usually applied each night and then washed off in the morning.
Step 6
Apply foot odor lotions to the feet. If your body odor originates in your feet, apply a lotion formulated for foot odor each day. These products typically contain antibacterial or anti-fungal agents to reduce bacteria or fungi that are contributing to the odor. Make sure to allow the lotion to dry prior to putting on socks or stockings.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider washing your clothing after each wear. For people who suffer from chronic body odor, you can help to keep the scent at bay by wearing your clothes only once before washing. Also, make sure to wash workout clothes after each wear.
Things You'll Need
- Deodorant
- Antiperspirant
- Prescription antiperspirant
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