Body odour (BO), scientifically known as bromhidrosis, is an unpleasant smell that arises when sweat comes into contact with bacteria on the skin. While sweating is a natural and essential bodily function for regulating temperature, the interaction between sweat and bacteria can produce a noticeable odour .
BO is a normal part of being human, but you can turn it into a pleasant smell by observing simple personal hygiene daily.
Body odour management is a significant aspect of personal hygiene and overall well-being thus, a very important challenge to address. Whether you’re fabulously dressed heading to a big meeting, a night out, or just your daily routine, managing body odour ensures you feel your best, smell fresh and confident all day long.
In this post, we will take a look at some effective tips and products to keep you smelling great and feeling fabulous in yourself, in your comfort zone and in the public
Tips to turning BO into Pleasant Odour (PO):
- Shower Regularly
- Frequency: Shower twice a day: morning and evening, at least once a day, especially after exercising. It is also essential to bathe properly.
- Technique: Use antibacterial soap to eliminate odour-causing bacteria. Focus on areas prone to sweating, such as underarms, groin, genitals, and feet,etc.
2. Personal Hygiene:
- Trim or Shave Armpit and genital hair regularly: Trim or shave the hair in these regions regularly to reduce sweat and bacteria buildup. Always wash with water after defecating.
- Change Pads Regularly: This is basically for women. This cannot be overemphasized; Change your pad every 4-6 hours or more frequently if needed and wash your genital area with mild soap and water during each pad change.
- Wear Clean Underwear Daily: Dirty underwear can harbour bacteria, sweat, and other bodily secretions, which can lead to unpleasant odours.
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3. Use the Right Products
- Antiperspirants vs. Deodorants: Antiperspirants reduce sweating, while deodorants mask the smell. Choose a product that suits your needs or opt for a combination of both. check out this👇
- Natural Alternatives: If you prefer natural options, look for products with ingredients like baking soda, witch hazel, or tea tree oil.
4. Wear Breathable Fabrics
- Natural Fibres: Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics allow your skin to breathe and reduce sweat buildup. Avoid synthetic fabrics such as nylon, polyester, acrylic, rayon, spandex (they are derived from petroleum based chemicals). They have their own odour even before you put them on).
- Clothing Fit: Avoid tight clothing that traps sweat and heat.
5. Stay Hydrated
- Water Intake: Drinking plenty of water helps regulate body temperature and can dilute the concentration of sweat, reducing odour. Sweat is mostly water, so if you are low on fluids, it can be more concentrated and smell stronger.
- The amount of water a person needs daily can vary based on factors like age, sex, weight, climate, and activity level. However, general guidelines are:
- Men: About 3.7 liters (or 13 cups) of total water per day.
- Women: About 2.7 liters (or 9 cups) of total water per day.
These recommendations include all fluids consumed (water, beverages, and food). Drinking plain water is essential, but other fluids and moisture in foods also contribute to hydration. So drink water all the time.
6. Maintain a Balanced Diet
- Avoid Odour-Causing Foods: Certain foods, like garlic, onions, and spicy dishes, can contribute to BO. Limit these if you notice a strong smell after consuming them. Or consume them only when you will be indoors because they could be really offensive to others, more especially, garlic.
- Incorporate Fresh Foods: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve overall body scent. Simply eat right.
7. Manage Stress
- Stress and Sweat: Stress triggers the release of a different type of sweat from the apocrine glands, which is more prone to producing odour. Shower immediately after stressful activities.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice stress-relief methods like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to keep stress levels in check.
8. Regular Laundry Routine
- Clothing Care: Wash your clothes regularly and change them daily. Ensure that your clothing is exposed to sunlight after washing to prevent damp odours. Pay extra attention to undergarments and workout gears. Avoid wearing clothes again on days when you have perspired heavily.
- Footwear: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day; alternate between different pairs to allow them to air out. Store your shoes in a well-ventilated area. If you only have one pair of shoes, regularly expose them to sunlight and ensure you frequently wash your socks.
9. Natural Remedies for BO: If you prefer a natural approach to managing BO, several options can help keep you fresh.
Here are some effective remedies to try:
- Baking Soda: Create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to your armpits and let it dry. Baking soda helps balance the skin’s acidity and reduces odours.
- Green Tea: Soak green tea bags in warm water and place them under your armpits for several minutes each day. Green tea can help block pores and reduce sweating.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix apple cider vinegar with a small amount of water in a spray bottle. Spritz the mixture onto your armpits. Apple cider vinegar kills the bacteria that cause BO.
- Lemon Juice: Combine lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and apply it under your arms. The citric acid in lemon juice effectively kills odor-causing bacteria.
Every challenge can be overcome with the right approach. If someone politely tells you, you have body odour, see it as a gesture of care. Rather than arguing or feeling offended, embrace the above tips as part of your daily routine. With consistent effort, they will soon notice a pleasant scent.
When to See a Doctor
If you have tried these tips and still struggle with persistent body odour, it might be time to consult a healthcare professional.
Goodluck!
