Shower or take a bath daily. Wash your entire body with antibacterial body wash or soap, paying special attention to your underarms, groin, and feet. Shave your armpits. Hair provides additional surface area for bacteria to multiply. By shaving, you will reduce the number of odor-causing bacteria on your body. Dry yourself thoroughly. After you get squeaky clean, dry yourself off with a clean, dry towel. Excess moisture provides a breeding ground for bacteria, so dry your armpits especially well.
While the vinegar smell may be a little overpowering at first, it should fade after a few minutes. You may need to reapply the vinegar a few times throughout the day if you’re not using any other form of deodorant.
If you have hyperhidrosis, a condition that causes excessive sweating, your doctor can prescribe medicated wipes that help reduce sweating and keep B. O. at bay. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Most aluminum-free deodorants contain alcohol, which can help dry your skin and make it less friendly to odor-causing bacteria. [6] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Some natural deodorants soak up extra moisture in your armpits, which means they work sort of like a true antiperspirant and help your skin feel cool and dry. Look for moisture-busting ingredients such as aloe and vegetable glycerin.
Current studies show that there’s no evidence that aluminum-based antiperspirants cause cancer or Alzheimer’s disease. However, they can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source If you’re worried, stick to a deodorant without aluminum chloride. Just keep in mind that it won’t actually reduce sweating. If you struggle with excessive sweating and exceptionally strong body odor, your doctor can prescribe a stronger, medicated deodorant. Keep in mind that these can cause side effects, such as redness, itching, or swelling of the skin.
Applying your deodorant to dry skin will help it stick better and prevent irritation. [10] X Research source
If you only want to apply deodorant once a day, do it before you go to bed. The effects will last longer if you let the deodorant sit on your skin overnight. [12] X Research source Carry a small stick of deodorant with you so you can reapply it on the go. [13] X Research source If you’re using a deodorant that doesn’t have antiperspirant ingredients, you might need to reapply it more often.
If you get especially sweaty or dirty during the day, change into clean, dry clothes as soon as possible.
Spot test your garment first to make sure the vinegar solution does not cause any discoloration. Look for an inconspicuous spot to test, like under the collar. Don’t use this technique on silk or other materials that might be damaged by moisture.
For instance, if you plan to bike to work or hit the gym after school, you’ll definitely want to have a change of clothes on hand.
Clothes made of natural, breathable materials, such as cotton, wool, or silk, are also great for preventing excess sweat and odor. These kinds of clothes are most appropriate for everyday activities, like working or doing light physical activities. Avoid polyester, which is water-resistant and can trap sweat against your skin. [18] X Research source Always wear clothes that are appropriate for the season and environment, since this will keep you comfortable and prevent you from getting too hot and sweaty.
Spicy foods. These foods may make you sweat more than usual or cause your body odor to be unusually strong. Meat and fish. Eating a lot of meat can sometimes make your B. O. smell a bit stronger or more unpleasant. [20] X Research source Some people also have a rare condition that prevents them from breaking down certain chemicals in seafood, leading to a “fishy” body odor. [21] X Research source Eggs. Some people experience unpleasant body odors after eating eggs. They contain a chemical called choline, which can break down into a stinky, fishy smelling compound that comes out in your sweat. [22] X Research source Sulfurous foods. Some foods contain higher amounts of sulfur than other foods, which contribute to body odor. Limit your intake of onions, garlic, broccoli, cabbage, asparagus, and cauliflower. [23] X Research source Alcohol. When you drink alcoholic beverages, the unpleasant smell of the alcohol may linger on your skin and breath. Caffeine. Drinking too much caffeine could make you sweat more, which can make your B. O. stronger. [24] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Talk to your doctor before making any dramatic changes to your diet. For example, if you’re worried that meat is making you stinky, ask your doctor how to get more protein from other sources.
Foods rich in compounds called carotenoids, such as pumpkin, carrots, and apricots. Garlic. Yes, garlic can make your B. O. stronger, but some studies show that women prefer the scent of men who eat a diet rich in garlic. [28] X Research source Citrus fruits. [29] X Research source Pleasant-smelling spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon, rosemary, thyme, and peppermint. Citrus fruits may also help. [30] X Research source
Drinking enough water also flushes odor-causing chemicals out of your system faster. [32] X Research source You can also get more fluids by eating juicy vegetables and fruits, like cucumbers or watermelon.
Many fruits, such as apples, berries, and bananas. Vegetables, including green peas, baked potatoes (with the skin on), sweet corn, and raw carrots. While veggies like broccoli and cauliflower are also great sources of fiber, you might want to avoid them if they make you smell worse. Whole grain foods, like barley, whole wheat pasta, quinoa, and bran. Nuts, seeds, beans, and lentils.
Probiotic supplements are generally safe for most people, but talk to your doctor first if you have a weakened immune system. [37] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source You can also take supplements with chlorophyll, a natural chemical found in plants. Chlorophyll is known to improve the odor of urine and stool. [38] X Trustworthy Source Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute Research center dedicated to promoting optimal health through cutting-edge nutrition research and public outreach Go to source Some people also take it to control external body odor, although there’s less evidence that it works for B. O. [39] X Research source
