Have you ever felt like you have done everything right, showered, applied deodorant, and worn fresh clothes, but still, that awkward moment arrives when you catch a whiff of yourself? Body odour can be frustrating, but it is often not about being dirty; it is about the little things we do that might be making it worse.
Body odour is not a sign of poor hygiene; it is usually a sign of misdirected hygiene. Our underarms are sensitive, and treating them harshly can throw everything off balance.
Common Mistakes That Make Body Odour Worse
1. Over-cleansing or Using Harsh Soaps
You may be tempted to scrub your pits with astringent antibacterial soaps to eliminate odour, but overdoing it can backfire on you. They not only remove sweat and dirt but also the healthy bacteria that prevent the odour-causing bacteria from stinking.
Your skin contains a microbiome, a combination of good and bad bacteria. If this is disrupted, the 'bad' bacteria have a chance to overgrow, and a stronger, more powerful odour results.
What to do instead: Cleanse your skin once daily with a mild cleanser. Do not use harsh scrubs, loofahs, or antibacterial soaps unless medically recommended.
2. Skipping Exfoliation Altogether
While over-exfoliating is a no-no, totally avoiding exfoliation is also a bad idea. Dead skin, product residue, and in-grown sweat can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
What to do instead: Exfoliate with a gentle product, such as a soft washcloth or the mildest AHA/BHA-based product, once or twice a week to prevent pores from clogging and odour-causing residue.
3. Shaving Mistakes That Trigger Odour
Shaving underarms reduces the odour but, if done improperly, can cause irritation, ingrown hair, or small nicks. Those micro-wounds make perfect entry points for bacteria, which means more smell.
What to do instead: Always shave with a clean razor and use a shaving gel or mild soap to avoid irritation. If shaving isn't your thing, consider trimming instead.
4. Relying Too Much on Deodorant or Antiperspirant
Deodorants help mask smell, and antiperspirants block sweat. But some people use them like magic potions, layering them multiple times a day or applying them without washing them first. This can trap bacteria, mix with sweat, and ironically worsen the smell. Also, some of these products' ingredients can irritate sensitive underarm skin, resulting in inflammation, and more odour.
What to do instead: Apply deodorant or antiperspirant on clean, dry skin. And give your skin breaks sometimes, especially overnight to let it breathe.
5. Ignoring Clothing Choices
Synthetic materials, such as polyester and nylon do not allow your skin to breathe. When trapped, the sweat creates a warm environment where bacteria grow. You may be clean, but your clothes are doing you dirty.
What to do instead: Opt for breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, particularly on warm or humid days. Also, switch clothes after exercise, even if you don't sweat much.
6. Not Drying Properly After Showering
If you quickly put on clothes after a shower without completely drying your underarms, the leftover moisture can be a playground for bacteria.
What to do instead: Gently pat your underarms dry after bathing. A few seconds with a towel can go a long way in reducing odour.
7. Neglecting Diet and Hydration
What you eat and drink shows up in your sweat. Garlic, onion, red meat, and alcohol are some foods and beverages that can alter your body's natural fragrance. Dehydration also causes the compounds in your sweat to become concentrated, which makes it smell worse.
What to do instead: Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. If you notice certain foods make you smell stronger, consider adjusting them.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]