Ever had that sense that your body smell isn’t so, well… fresh? When you reach that level of self-awareness, it is time to do something to reduce body odor. Here are some tips.

So, you stink. How to reduce body odor?

1) Take a shower

That one was quite obvious, wasn’t it? But if you ask yourself how to get rid of body odor fast, hopping in the shower is the number one solution. Why does sweat smell? Sweat by itself is odorless, so why does it smell? It’s the bacteria that thrive at the sweaty body areas that are responsible for the stink. Try to wash yourself at least once a day and focus on your neck, underarms, feet and pubic area. In severe cases, when the bad odor is persistent, your dermatologist might recommend an antibacterial or antifungal soap, depending on the body area that suffers the most.

2) Dry your skin with a clean towel

As already mentioned, bacteria fancy wet and warm environments and if you don’t dry yourself you are just giving them exactly what they want. So, use a clean towel to wipe off all that moisture and prevent bacteria from spreading. Again, focus on your neck, underarms, feet and pubic area.

3) Apply a deodorant or an antiperspirant

Using a deodorant or an antiperspirant to cover up the bad smell, is a quick solution but that alone won’t get you far. If you really want to reduce body odor, then washing your body must be your number one priority. After doing so, apply a deodorant or an antiperspirant to maximize the sense of freshness. Bear in mind that antiperspirants reduce sweating while deodorants simply mask the smell.

On a side note, there has been a lot of debate about whether hygiene products containing aluminum chlorides can cause Alzheimer’s disease or breast cancer. Numerous research has been- and is still- conducted regarding this matter, though a direct link has not yet been proven. With that said, and given that many consumers are already alarmed about this matter, you can choose products that do not contain aluminum. Such products are readily available in the market.

4) Shave your armpits

Why do armpits stink? It’s because they provide the perfect conditions for the underarm bacteria to breed on. Understandably most men are reluctant to shave the area but manscaping can truly help remove armpit smell. Nobody expects your armpits to feel smooth like baby skin but a bush there will only absorb more sweat. As for women, well shaving your underarms regularly goes without saying, doesn’t it?

5) Always wear clean clothes

So you have washed and perfumed yourself, now it is time to dress yourself. Try to dress in clean clothes and according to the weather. Prefer to wear fabric, like wool, cotton, or silk to minimize sweating and allow breathing. Keep in mind that body odor can seep into your clothing so change it whenever you feel sweaty. Of course, you should never skip changing your socks and underwear as well. Try to wash your clothes often and add some fabric conditioner for a fresh scent, as well. Fresh smelling clothes can keep bad body odor down even though it’s not for long.

6) Adjust your diet

Your diet is too a factor that alters your body scent. Foods and drinks can be potential bad body odor causes so pay attention to what you eat. Foods like garlic, onions, and red meat should be avoided. Spicy foods, foods that contain high amounts of sugar and caffeinated drinks may make you sweat more, so reducing those should help.

7) Consult a dermatologist

If none of the steps above help you and the bad smell is persistent then perhaps you should talk to a doctor. As previously mentioned, the solution could be as simple as an antibacterial or antifungal soap. There are cases though that the cause of the bad odor is a disorder such as Bromhidrosis, Hyperhidrosis or trimethylaminuria (TMAU). In any case, your doctor will give you a definite answer as to what the problem really is.

Synopsis

If you don’t want to let your sweat glands destroy your relationships, invest in your personal hygiene and a change of lifestyle. Don’t wait until you end up with a vinegar-smelling sweat. Hopefully, the steps above will help you reduce body odor and leave you feeling fresh and clean.

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