The Cure for Body Odor

Unpleasant, excessive body odor is embarrassing and can lead to bullying, teasing, shame, or depression. No one wants to be known for having a foul odor. There are many things that could cause body odor. The obvious causes are excessive sweating, not bathing frequently enough, but there are some other things to watch out for – eating certain foods like garlic and onion, medical conditions, and certain medications. Follow these tips for curing body odor and good personal hygiene.

Bathe
The obvious solution is to take daily baths or showers. Fastidious personal hygiene is essential to smelling fresh. If showers don’t seem to be doing the trick, then try soaking in a bath. Antibacterial soap is recommended for limiting bacteria on the skin, which can be one of the main culprits of odor. Dry thoroughly afterwards because warm, wet areas help bacteria to grow.

Exfoliate
Exfoliate your body, including the armpit area, with a bath brush or body scrub at least once a week. The dead skin cells that collect can contribute to the bacteria on the skin that can cause odor.

Antiperspirant
Use an antiperspirant to cut wetness. If you have excessive wetness that doesn’t seem to be helped by ordinary antiperspirants, you may need a prescription strength product. Dove Clinical Protection is an over-the-counter antiperspirant that is quite effective and provides triple wetness protection. It also has added moisturizers for minimal skin irritation.

Powder
Using a body powder that helps absorb wetness can help. Sprinkle or pat it into spots that sweat most —armpits, upper thighs, groin, and feet. Shower to Shower body powder is particularly helpful and has a pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering.

Wear Breathable Clothing
Wear clothing made of natural fibers, like cotton, that breathe and don’t trap wetness. In particular you should wear cotton underwear.

Diet
Take a look at what you’re eating. Cut foods from your diet, that may cause odor — garlic, onions, spicy food, curry, etc. Also limit your consumption of alcohol.  Drink plenty of water, since it will help dilute the concentration of these potential odor causing foods in your system and help flush your system.

If body odor persists, then consult your doctor. It can be an embarrassing topic to discuss, but it’s even more embarrassing to go around ashamed and wondering what people must be thinking. Sometimes odor is not from lack of hygiene, but rather a medical condition or as a result of medications that you might be taking.

 

updated 3/24/14