Summer is great! It brings sun, holidays, and perhaps even a swim in the pool. But let's face it, it also brings something a little less desirable: sweat—and sometimes, a lot of body odour. Have you ever wondered why you need to shower every hour during summer? We asked the expert, Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant at Sharda Hospital in Noida, to explain.
It's All About the Sweat (Mostly!)
Dr Srivastav describes that sweating is nature's air conditioner. "When we get warmer, or if we exercise, our body gives off sweat in order to cool us down. It's a critical function," he says.
So now, here comes the cool thing: pure fresh sweat itself really isn't smelly at all. It is primarily water and salt. It's really only the tiny, tiny things called bacteria that live on our skin that are responsible for that summer aroma.
"Millions of bacteria live on our skin," explains Dr Srivastav. "When we sweat, those bacteria become combined with the sweat. Then, they decompose some of the chemicals in the sweat, and that breaks down those less-than-fresh aromas we refer to as body odour."
Why is Summer So Stinky?
So, why does it feel like it's so much worse in summer? It's really simple and because of:
Warmth: Warmer temperatures mean our bodies have to work harder to cool down, which results in more sweat. More sweat equals more for those bacteria to snack on!
Humidity: The humid, sticky air of summer can keep sweat on our skin longer, allowing bacteria more time to get to work.
Clothing habits: In some cases, the summer clothing we wear, particularly constrictive or man-made fabrics, can inhibit the sweat from evaporating rapidly, thus producing a warm, humid setting that makes bacteria flourish.
Also Read: Global Rivers Contaminated By 8,500 Tonnes Of Human Antibiotics Each Year, Study Reveals
Natural Methods of Keeping the Stink Away
The better news is that you don't have to use chemicals to fight summer body odour. Dr Srivastav recommends some natural and efficient methods of staying fresh:
1. Shower Daily
This may be a given, but showering every day, particularly after sweating, serves to wash away sweat and bacteria. Use a mild soap.
2. Stay Hydrated
Consuming plenty of water serves to dilute your sweat, which can minimise the concentration of odour-causing substances.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear loose-fitting garments made of natural fibres such as cotton and linen. These facilitate air flow and allow sweat to evaporate.
4. Keep Underarms Clean and Dry
Pay extra attention to areas where sweat tends to accumulate, like your underarms and feet. Make sure they are thoroughly dry after showering.
5. Consider Natural Deodorants
While they don't prevent sweating, some natural deodorants containing ingredients like baking soda or essential oils can help neutralise odour.
6. Test Apple Cider Vinegar
For some, using a diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar on the underarms is effective in eliminating bacteria. Allow it to dry thoroughly before putting on clothes. (Always do a patch test first to test for skin sensitivity).
7. Baking Soda Power
A baking soda and water paste can also be used on the underarms for a few minutes before washing off. Baking soda may absorb moisture and eliminate odour.
8. Eat a Balanced Diet
Some foods, such as garlic and onions, may sometimes cause body odour. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is usually a good idea.
When to See a Doctor
Though body odour is normally harmless, Dr Srivastav recommends consulting a doctor if you notice:
- An abrupt and dramatic change in your body odour.
- Body odour that is unusually pungent or foul.
- Body odour with other symptoms such as excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), redness, or itching.
Bottomline
Summer is a season to be outdoors. By knowing why body odour occurs and incorporating these easy natural tips into your daily routine, you can be fresh and confident throughout the summer. So go out and get some sun, and don't forget it's only sweat that's ruining your summer fun.