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Body odor female. Female Body Odor: Causes, Prevention, and Effective Solutions

by alexxlab

What causes body odor in females. How to prevent and eliminate unpleasant body odor. When should you be concerned about changes in body odor. What are the most effective treatments for excessive sweating and odor.

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Understanding the Science Behind Body Odor

Body odor is a common concern for many individuals, particularly women who may be more sensitive to societal expectations regarding personal hygiene. But what exactly causes that distinctive smell? Let’s delve into the science behind body odor.

The human body has two primary types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine glands are found all over the body and produce a clear, odorless fluid that helps regulate body temperature. Apocrine glands, on the other hand, are concentrated in areas like the armpits and groin, and secrete a thicker, milky fluid.

Interestingly, sweat itself doesn’t have an odor. The characteristic smell we associate with body odor occurs when bacteria on the skin’s surface come into contact with the perspiration released by apocrine glands. This bacterial interaction leads to the breakdown of sweat components, resulting in the production of odorous compounds.

Factors Influencing Body Odor

  • Genetics
  • Diet
  • Hormonal changes
  • Medical conditions
  • Medications
  • Personal hygiene habits

While everyone has a unique body odor, certain factors can intensify or alter its scent. Genetic makeup plays a significant role in determining an individual’s natural odor profile. Additionally, dietary choices can impact body odor, with foods like garlic, onions, and certain spices known to affect perspiration scent.

Common Causes of Increased Body Odor in Females

Women may experience changes in body odor due to various factors. Understanding these causes can help in addressing the issue effectively.

Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause can significantly impact body odor. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can alter the composition of sweat and influence bacterial growth on the skin.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating. It can be primary (occurring without a specific cause) or secondary (related to an underlying medical condition). Women with hyperhidrosis may experience more pronounced body odor due to increased sweat production.

Dietary Factors

Certain foods can alter body odor. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower produce gas during digestion, which can affect body scent. Similarly, garlic and onions contain sulfur compounds that can be excreted through pores, influencing body odor.

Medical Conditions

Various medical conditions can lead to changes in body odor. These may include thyroid disorders, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and certain metabolic disorders. For instance, trimethylaminuria, a rare genetic condition, can cause a fishy odor after consuming seafood.

Identifying Abnormal Body Odor: When to Seek Medical Attention

While some degree of body odor is normal, sudden or significant changes in scent may warrant medical attention. How can you distinguish between normal variations and potentially concerning changes?

  • Persistent, strong odor despite proper hygiene
  • Sudden onset of an unfamiliar or particularly foul smell
  • Odor accompanied by other symptoms like fever, skin changes, or unexplained weight loss
  • Body odor that interferes with daily life or causes social anxiety

If you experience any of these signs, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine if the change in body odor is due to an underlying medical condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

Effective Strategies for Managing Body Odor

Maintaining good personal hygiene is the foundation for managing body odor. However, there are several additional strategies that can help keep unpleasant smells at bay.

Personal Hygiene Practices

  • Regular bathing or showering, especially after physical activity
  • Thorough cleansing of odor-prone areas like armpits and feet
  • Using antibacterial soap to reduce odor-causing bacteria
  • Proper drying of the body to prevent bacterial growth in moist areas

Choosing the Right Antiperspirant and Deodorant

Antiperspirants and deodorants play crucial roles in managing body odor. Antiperspirants contain aluminum-based compounds that block sweat glands, reducing perspiration. Deodorants, on the other hand, work by masking odors and sometimes contain antibacterial agents to inhibit bacterial growth.

For optimal results, consider using a combination antiperspirant-deodorant product. Apply it to clean, dry skin, preferably at night when sweat glands are less active, allowing the active ingredients to form a more effective barrier.

Clothing and Fabric Choices

The type of clothing you wear can significantly impact body odor. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, silk, or wool for everyday wear. These materials allow air circulation and help wick moisture away from the skin, reducing bacterial growth.

For exercise or high-intensity activities, moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon can be beneficial. These materials draw sweat away from the body, helping to keep you dry and minimizing odor-causing bacterial growth.

Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes to Combat Body Odor

In addition to conventional methods, several natural remedies and lifestyle modifications can help manage body odor effectively.

Dietary Adjustments

  • Reduce consumption of odor-producing foods like garlic, onions, and strong spices
  • Increase intake of chlorophyll-rich foods like leafy greens and herbs
  • Stay hydrated to help flush toxins from the body
  • Consider probiotics to promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the body

Natural Deodorizers

Several natural ingredients have deodorizing properties and can be used as alternatives to commercial products:

  • Apple cider vinegar: Its acidic nature helps balance skin pH and reduce bacterial growth
  • Baking soda: Absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors
  • Essential oils: Tea tree, lavender, and lemongrass oils have antibacterial properties
  • Witch hazel: Acts as an astringent and has antimicrobial effects

Stress Management

Stress can trigger increased sweating and exacerbate body odor. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine can help manage this aspect:

  • Regular exercise
  • Meditation or mindfulness practices
  • Adequate sleep
  • Time management and prioritization

Medical Treatments for Persistent Body Odor Issues

When lifestyle changes and over-the-counter products prove insufficient, medical interventions may be necessary to address persistent body odor problems.

Prescription-Strength Antiperspirants

Doctors can prescribe stronger antiperspirants containing higher concentrations of aluminum chloride. These products are more effective at blocking sweat glands but may cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botox injections can be used to treat hyperhidrosis by temporarily blocking the nerves that stimulate sweat glands. This treatment is particularly effective for excessive underarm sweating and can provide relief for several months.

Oral Medications

In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed to manage excessive sweating. These may include:

  • Anticholinergics: Reduce sweat production by blocking certain nerve signals
  • Beta-blockers: Can help manage stress-induced sweating
  • Antidepressants: May be beneficial if anxiety is contributing to excessive sweating

Surgical Interventions

For severe cases of hyperhidrosis that don’t respond to other treatments, surgical options may be considered:

  • Sweat gland removal: Surgical excision of sweat glands in specific areas
  • Sympathectomy: A procedure that interrupts the nerve signals responsible for sweating

It’s important to note that surgical interventions are typically considered a last resort due to potential side effects and complications.

The Psychological Impact of Body Odor: Addressing Social Anxiety

Body odor can have significant psychological effects, particularly for women who may feel more pressure to maintain a certain standard of personal hygiene. How does body odor impact mental health and social interactions?

Social Anxiety and Self-Esteem

Persistent body odor can lead to social anxiety and decreased self-esteem. Individuals may become overly self-conscious, avoiding social situations or close physical contact with others. This can result in isolation and negatively impact personal and professional relationships.

Coping Strategies

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy to address negative thought patterns
  • Support groups for individuals dealing with hyperhidrosis or related conditions
  • Mindfulness techniques to manage anxiety and stress
  • Building a strong support system of understanding friends and family

Education and Awareness

Increasing public awareness about body odor and its causes can help reduce stigma and promote understanding. Education about proper hygiene practices and available treatments can empower individuals to take control of their body odor issues and seek help when needed.

Innovations in Body Odor Management: Future Trends and Technologies

The field of body odor management is continuously evolving, with new technologies and approaches being developed to address this common concern.

Microbiome-Based Solutions

Research into the skin microbiome is opening up new possibilities for managing body odor. Scientists are exploring ways to manipulate the bacterial communities on the skin to promote ‘good’ bacteria that don’t produce odorous compounds while inhibiting odor-causing species.

Smart Fabrics and Wearable Technology

Advancements in textile technology are leading to the development of smart fabrics with built-in odor-control properties. These may include materials embedded with antimicrobial agents or fabrics designed to trap and neutralize odors.

Personalized Treatments

As our understanding of the genetic and physiological factors influencing body odor improves, we may see a move towards more personalized treatment approaches. This could involve tailored probiotic treatments, customized antiperspirant formulations, or targeted dietary recommendations based on an individual’s unique body chemistry.

Non-Invasive Sweat Gland Modulation

Researchers are exploring non-invasive methods to modulate sweat gland activity, such as targeted energy-based treatments that could temporarily disable overactive sweat glands without the need for injections or surgery.

As we continue to advance our understanding of body odor and its management, new and innovative solutions are likely to emerge, offering hope for those struggling with persistent odor issues.

What’s that smell? Get rid of body odor

If you notice a change in body odor, it could be a sign of a medical condition that needs treatment.

Have you ever caught a whiff of a foul odor after finishing an intense workout or spending an afternoon outside in the heat, only to realize the odor was coming from you? The smell goes with the sweat, and some of us give off a stronger and more pungent scent than others. 

Most of the time body odor isn’t a problem and a shower will quickly wash it away. But if you notice a change in body odor or you’re sweating much more than usual, it could be a sign of a medical condition that needs treatment.

What causes body odor?

You probably notice body odor most when you’re sweating. Your body has two main types of sweat glands — eccrine and apocrine — that release fluid (sweat) onto your skin’s surface when you’re hot. Sweat serves an important purpose. As perspiration evaporates, it cools your body temperature.  

Eccrine glands are all over your body. Apocrine glands are in areas like your armpits and groin. They produce a thicker, milky fluid.

Sweat itself doesn’t have a smell. The odor happens when bacteria come into contact with the perspiration your apocrine glands release. 

What diseases can cause body odor?

People who sweat more than usual may be diagnosed with the condition hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis is a relatively rare condition that happens without a specific cause. Secondary hyperhidrosis is related to a medical problem, such as hot flashes with menopause, an infection, or an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). Stress, certain medications, and alcohol use can also cause you to sweat more than usual.

If you’re still looking for a cause, look at your diet. Certain foods can change the way you smell. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower produce gas. The breakdown of garlic and onions in your body releases sulfur-like compounds that waft out through your pores. And people with a rare condition called trimethylaminuria develop a fishy odor after eating seafood. 

How to get rid of body odor

The easiest way to eliminate body odor is by taking a bath or shower, which will remove bacteria from your skin. However, for many people a daily shower or bath may not be necessary. Showering a few times a week, especially after you exercise or do other activities that make you sweat, may be enough to rid you of body odor without drying out or irritating your skin. 

After your shower or bath, apply an antiperspirant and deodorant. Most over-the-counter antiperspirants contain aluminum-based compounds that block your body’s eccrine glands, preventing you from sweating. Deodorants repel the bacteria that cause odor, and may contain an additional fragrance. Some products combine an antiperspirant and a deodorant. If over-the-counter products don’t control sweating and body odor, your doctor can prescribe a stronger prescription-strength antiperspirant/deodorant.  

Wear clothing made from breathable fabrics such as cotton, silk, or wool and wash clothes after each wear. For exercise, you may prefer to wear moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon. You might also consider shaving your armpit hair, which allows sweat to evaporate quickly, before it can produce an odor. 

Secondary hyperhidrosis treatment addresses the condition that caused the excess sweating. Treatments for primary hyperhidrosis include antiperspirants, botulinum toxin injections, and prescription medications. For sweating so severe that it affects your daily life, surgery can block nerve signals from triggering your sweat glands or remove those glands entirely. 

Usually, body odor (as well bad breath) is more of a nuisance than a serious health issue. But if you find that you can’t manage sweating and odor with lifestyle changes like regular bathing and antiperspirant/deodorant, ask your doctor or dermatologist for advice.


Image: RapidEye/Getty Images

Sudden Change in Body Odor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Changes in body odor may be caused by puberty, too much sweat, or poor hygiene. Sudden changes may be triggered by the environment, your medications, or your food. It could also indicate a health problem.

Everyone has a unique body odor (BO), which can be pleasant or subtle, but when we think of BO, we usually think of an unpleasant smell.

However, body odor, especially sudden and persistent changes to your normal odor, can sometimes indicate an underlying condition.

A sudden change in body odor typically occurs in a specific area of the body. Common areas include the:

  • genitals
  • armpits
  • feet
  • mouth and throat
  • belly button

You may also notice a sudden smell from your stool, urine, earwax, or genital discharge. No matter the location, the odor can vary. It can be foul, pungent, fishy, sour, bitter, or even sweet.

Other symptoms you experience will depend on the cause. If the change in odor is due to infection, the smell may also be accompanied by:

  • redness
  • a rash
  • itching
  • oozing, discharge, or discoloration

Your environment, the things you eat, medications you take, shifts in hormone levels, or underlying disorders may all be behind a sudden change in body odor.

Changes in body odor can be a normal part of development, such as when an adolescent is going through puberty. During puberty, sweat glands and hormones become more active, which can cause BO.

If you’ve been working out, excessive sweat may be the culprit. If you don’t wear antiperspirant or practice healthy hygiene habits, sweat can mix with bacteria, causing an unpleasant smell.

If body odor is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, it may be something else.

Diet

The foods you eat can sometimes cause a sudden, temporary change in body odor. For instance, many people experience a sudden, strong smell from their urine after eating asparagus. The smell will go away once the food is metabolized, unless it’s eaten daily.

Certain foods can also cause you to produce more gas, which may lead to belching or flatulence. Depending on the foods you eat, and how much gas you produce, this could create a foul smell.

Some foods that may cause smelly gas include:

  • broccoli
  • cauliflower
  • cabbage
  • bok choy
  • asparagus

If you have a food intolerance or sensitivity, the foods you’re sensitive to can also cause extra gas.

Your overall diet can also affect body odor. Some research has found that males who had a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables had better-smelling sweat, no matter how much they sweat.

On the other hand, self-reports showed that high carb intake was associated with less pleasant smelling sweat.

Other research suggested that high meat consumption may have a negative effect on body odor, compared to a plant-based diet.

Bad breath can easily occur due to consuming certain foods, especially strong flavors such as spices, garlic, onions, or radish. Smoking tobacco products can also cause bad breath.

Stress

Stress and anxiety can occasionally cause you to sweat more, leading to a stronger body odor.

If you have hyperhidrosis disorder, you sweat excessively and uncontrollably, sometimes for no apparent reason. Some people develop this disorder due to genetics, an underlying health condition, or while taking certain medications.

According to 2016 research, hyperhidrosis and stress are connected. Many people who develop this condition experience stress, especially if the excess sweating affects their self-esteem or confidence.

Hyperhidrosis is often diagnosed in people with mental health conditions, such as social anxiety, which may influence its onset.

Diabetes (diabetic ketoacidosis)

Diabetes mellitus is a condition that occurs when your body either doesn’t make enough insulin, or can’t effectively use what it makes. It leads to high blood sugar.

If blood sugar levels get very high, a complication called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) can occur. Ketones build up to dangerous levels in the body and are secreted into the blood and urine. Additionally, DKA causes your breath to have a fruity odor.

Medical Emergency

If you have diabetes and experience a sudden fruity smell in your breath accompanied by frequent urination and a very high blood glucose level, see a doctor immediately. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency.

Menopause, menstruation, and pregnancy

Have you ever thought you might smell different during your period? Research has found that women at high fertility within their menstrual cycle actually put out a different, perceived to be more attractive, scent to men than those at low fertility in their cycle.

This scent was even suggested to influence women’s interactions with other women, as fertility apparently smells good to everyone.

Other times, hormone fluctuations may cause a change in body odor or vaginal odor. This may not necessarily be unpleasant — just different. A subtle smell isn’t cause for concern, and instead may be due to pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation.

Vaginal infections

Several vaginal infections, such as a vaginal parasite infection or bacterial vaginosis, may cause a sudden change in vaginal odor. Other types of infections that occur outside of the vagina may also cause a change in body odor in the affected area.

Vaginal yeast infections usually don’t cause vaginal odor. However, they’re typically accompanied by itching, redness, or burning.

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age and often produces a fishy odor. Its other symptoms are similar to those of a yeast infection.

Trichomoniasis, a type of parasitic sexually transmitted infection, often has no symptoms but may change vaginal odor. Discharge can smell bad, change color, or become frothy.

Skin infections

If your skin develops an infection, either new or due to a preexisting condition, you may experience a sudden smell at the site of the infection.

Some types of skin infections or conditions that might cause a smell include:

  • trichomycosis axillaris, a bacterial infection of underarm hair follicles
  • erythrasma, a superficial bacterial skin infection
  • intertrigo, a rash in a skinfold that can become odorous in the presence of a superimposed, secondary infection such as candidiasis (yeast infection)

Athlete’s foot

If your feet are suddenly starting to smell bad and itch, you may have developed a common fungal infection called athlete’s foot.

Fungus thrives in the warm, moist environment of your shoes and socks. If you don’t practice healthy foot hygiene habits, you may be more likely to develop it.

Cancer

Can cancer smell? Some people with advanced cancer have reported unpleasant body odors, but they’re typically due to infected cancer-related wounds. These wounds occur in around 5 percent of people with cancer.

Some people with gynecological tumors do complain of unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge. This results from certain acids that occur, which can be reduced by using the antibiotic metronidazole.

Vitamins or supplements

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (when you don’t get enough vitamins or minerals in your diet) or malabsorption (when your body can’t absorb the nutrients in what you eat) can sometimes cause body odor, or a smell to occur in your stool or urine.

For instance, scurvy — vitamin C deficiency — can cause sweat to smell putrid.

Other causes

  • Urinary tract infection (UTI). A bacterial UTI occurs when bacteria enter your urinary tract and multiply. This type of infection can cause your urine to produce a strong odor, along with affecting the sensation, frequency, urgency, and appearance of your urine.
  • Pneumonia. This is a lung infection that sometimes causes foul-smelling breath and sputum.
  • Tuberculosis (TB). This is a bacterial infection that occurs in the lungs, throat, and neck, causing breath to have a foul smell. Swelling in ulcerated lymph nodes may also produce a smell of stale beer.
  • Toxin poisoning. If you ingest certain toxins, your body odor may be affected. For instance, ingesting cyanide can cause breath to smell like bitter almond. Arsenic and certain insecticides can create an intense garlic-like odor. Poisoning by turpentine makes urine smell like violets.
  • Uremia. This is a sign of kidney failure. It can cause breath to smell of ammonia or urine.
  • Intestinal obstructions. If intestines become obstructed, some people may vomit the contents of their stomach, causing them to have fecal-smelling breath.
  • Belly button infection. Although hygiene is usually the cause of a smelly navel, if your belly button starts to have an offensive smell, it may be infected. If infected, other symptoms may include discharge, redness, itchiness, swelling, and even bleeding.
  • Ear infection. While earwax is normal and healthy, smelly earwax may indicate a problem or infection. Other symptoms can include redness, itching, pain, balance issues, hearing issues, and pus.

Hyperhidrosis

If your hyperhidrosis is secondary to an underlying condition, treating that condition should help your symptoms. If it’s due to a certain medication, you may want to speak with a doctor about adjusting it.

If there’s an unknown cause, there are several treatments that may help:

  • prescription creams or antiperspirants
  • medications
  • seeing a mental health professional and practicing relaxation techniques
  • surgery
  • Botox injections

It can also help to make lifestyle changes where you bathe daily, choose clothing based on breathable, natural materials, and change socks often to let your feet get some air.

Infections

Although many types of infections aren’t serious, they should be handled promptly to avoid complications.

Infections will be treated differently depending on the cause and severity. Treatments are usually done with an antibiotic or antifungal agent. These are typically topical, but may be oral or intravenous as well.

Check out how to treat each of these infections:

  • yeast infections
  • bacterial vaginosis
  • trichomoniasis
  • ear infection
  • skin infections

Managing diabetes

If you have the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis where you experience fruity-smelling breath, you should seek emergency medical treatment.

Managing diabetes is all about adequately managing your blood glucose level. Check out the best ways to manage diabetes with medications, alternative treatments, or natural remedies.

Changing diet, supplements, or medications

If your body odor changes are due to foods, you may want to avoid them and increase variety in your diet.

If you have a vitamin deficiency, a doctor can find out with a simple blood test. You can get more of these vitamins by adding certain foods to your diet, or by taking supplements.

If a side effect of a medication you’re taking is causing your body odor to change in an unpleasant way, speak with a doctor. They can help you discuss your options, either adjusting your dose or switching to another medication.

Don’t stop taking any medication until you’ve spoken with a doctor.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is usually very responsive to at-home treatments, including:

  • over-the-counter antifungal powders, sprays, ointments, and lotions
  • hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol
  • oils such as tea tree or neem
  • talcum powder
  • sea salt baths

Cancer

Having cancer itself typically doesn’t smell, but having an infected wound related to it can.

If you experience a sudden change in body odor and have been diagnosed with cancer, speak with your doctor. They can treat the infected wound.

Some sudden changes in body odor can come down to increasing your healthy hygiene habits. Here are some tips to practice better hygiene:

  • Use antiperspirants or deodorants. You can use store-bought deodorants, more natural ones, or even make your own. Whatever you choose, these products can help manage your sweating and control body odor.
  • Take care of your feet. Ensure that your feet don’t stay in a damp environment for long. If your socks get damp, change them. For healthy feet, it can also help to make sure your shoes are the right fit and to use a pumice stone to reduce foot calluses.
  • Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth and tongue. Dentists typically recommend brushing twice a day for two minutes at a time.
  • Gently cleanse sensitive areas. Sensitive areas may include your genital area, anus, and ears. Don’t douche, but use gentle cleansers to keep your genitals healthy. Gently rinse your ears with warm, not hot, water to help loosen earwax and clean your ear canal.
  • Create a shower routine that works for you. It’s up to personal preference how often you shower, but if you’re experiencing unwanted body odor, you may want to increase how often you bathe. Showering rinses away dead skin cells, dirt, bacteria, and oils.

If an adolescent is going through puberty, a change in body odor is completely normal. Encouraging the above healthy habits can help.

If the change in body odor is subtle and isn’t accompanied by worrisome symptoms, it may be due to hormone changes. You don’t need to treat this change unless it bothers you.

You should seek medical treatment if:

  • you have any change in odor accompanied by signs of infection
  • the smell may be related to toxin poisoning
  • you have been diagnosed with cancer
  • your diabetes is poorly managed, or you believe you may be experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis
  • the bad odor is accompanied by pain, bleeding, or other serious symptoms
  • the odor doesn’t go away

Sudden changes in body odor are often not a sign of anything serious. The easiest way to know if you should be concerned is how long the smell lasts, if it’s specifically related to something, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.

If the sudden smell has you worried and it persists, it never hurts to set up a doctor’s appointment or call a doctor or nurse for advice.

reasons for change, how to get rid of bad smell

Each of us sweats is a normal physiological process. Due to the removal of fluid, our body more easily tolerates hot conditions, intense physical activity, stressful situations and the state of illness. But sometimes a person begins to sweat more than usual, and an unpleasant odor becomes more noticeable. Rexona experts will talk in detail about the reasons for such changes, how to deal with the pungent odor of sweat in women.

Why does a person sweat?****

To understand this issue, you need to know the characteristics of different types of sweat glands. There are 2 types of them: eccrine and apocrine.

Eccrine sweat glands are distributed over the entire surface of our body, except for the external auditory canal, skin of the lips and genitals. They are active from the very birth of a person and perform several important functions:

  • are responsible for thermoregulation in our body due to the production of sweat;
  • maintain electrolyte balance;
  • promotes skin hydration for normal tactile sensitivity, flexibility of the palms and soles of the feet.

The sweat produced by the eccrine glands is naturally completely sterile and odorless, as it is 99% water. 1% are enzymes, trace elements and other compounds. Normally, the body of an adult can produce about 0.5 liters of sweat per hour, and during intense sports or in hot weather – up to 3-4 liters every 60 minutes.

Apocrine sweat glands can be found in the armpits, pubis and around the navel, near the lips, eyes and ears. They do not participate in thermoregulation processes, but secrete a special fluid that is needed for chemical communication and human olfactory behavior. It is the apocrine glands that are called the culprits for the appearance of an unpleasant odor of sweat.

To sum up: eccrine glands provoke moisture, while apocrine glands produce special molecules that become a breeding ground for bacteria on the surface of the skin. As a result, natural sweat, which does not smell at all, gradually acquires an unpleasant odor.

Causes of a strong smell of sweat in women

Now you will not be surprised by the fact that it is not the sweat itself that smells, but the by-products of the vital activity of the bacteria that live on the skin of every person. The warm and humid environment in the armpit area becomes an ideal place for their rapid reproduction. These bacteria feed on proteins and fats found in sweat and break them down into fatty acids and ammonia. These waste products provide a sharp smell of sweat in women in the armpit area.

However, scientists know that the composition of sweat in women and men is somewhat different. More sulfur-based compounds were found in women. That is why armpits often smell like onions. In men, sweat contains more fatty acids, so the smell resembles cheese.

Causes of a strong smell of sweat in women:

  1. It is no secret that the appearance of a characteristic odor is very closely related to hygiene. Usually in women, it appears 2-3 hours after a hygienic shower.
  2. Another source of “aroma” is stale clothes. If a blouse or top has managed to absorb a portion of sweat, then only washing will save them. Otherwise, dirty clothes will become a source of a strong smell: while in the closet, the bacteria on the material will be in an inactive state, but will quickly become active as soon as you put on such a thing.
  3. The aroma of the body often depends on our menu. It’s simple: along with sweat, the body regularly removes by-products of metabolic processes that occur inside. Various spices, garlic, fatty and smoked foods, alcohol can make the natural smell more noticeable and sharp. Some medicines also affect sweat in a similar way.
  4. An unusual smell may appear against the background of hormonal changes inside the body. Also, the intensity of sweating often changes depending on the female cycle. During the period of bearing a child or menopause, the natural smell of sweat in a woman can become sharp.
  5. In some cases, a sharp change in smell can be a signal of internal problems in the body. Ancient doctors knew this, so they often made diagnoses by sniffing the patient. It was believed that diabetics could smell of pears and acetone, people with tuberculosis could smell of vinegar essence, patients with liver pathologies could smell of chlorine and fresh fish. Of course, in modern medicine there are more accurate and reliable methods for diagnosing various pathologies. However, the change in the smell of sweat to a less familiar one should not be ignored. Such a symptom can be a signal to immediately consult with an experienced doctor and pass basic tests.

How to deal with the pungent odor of sweat in women?

When it comes to sweat and confidence, it’s best to be proactive.

  1. To keep your underarm skin fresh and odor neutral, it is important to take a daily hygienic shower. Morning or evening is a matter of personal preference. In the summer and after active physical training, the skin may need an additional cleansing procedure. At the same time, you should not use aggressive cleansers: to wash off the sweat, it is enough to use mild gels, soaps or foams that are suitable for daily use.
  2. One of the most effective ways to deal with pungent and annoying odors is to minimize sweating. Special antiperspirants do an excellent job with this task: they are able to reduce the amount of sweat secreted by the glands, turning it into a gel and providing long-term dryness. Products with deodorizing components give a complex effect: they fight perspiration and leave a long-lasting refreshing fragrance.
  3. A balanced diet will help bring sweating back to normal and make the pungent smell of sweat in the armpits of women less pronounced and noticeable. Try to limit the consumption of spicy and spicy foods, rarely add hot peppers, garlic and ginger root to food, which activate blood circulation and can increase body temperature.
  4. Try to lead a healthy lifestyle to cope with bad breath. Alcoholic beverages, large amounts of caffeine, energy drinks, and sugary sodas also increase sweating and exacerbate the problem.
  5. To get rid of the smell of sweat, wear only clean, breathable clothing. Natural materials are easily breathable and allow you to keep the feeling of freshness longer after a shower. Clothing made from synthetic fabrics has the opposite effect and can exacerbate the problem of sweating.

Rexona Sweat Control

Rexona Clinical Protection* antiperspirants prevent bacterial growth on the skin surface 40 times more effectively than regular soap**. Thanks to comprehensive protection, you can not worry about sweat for up to 96 hours ***: the skin of the armpits will remain perfectly dry and the feeling of freshness will remain.

The revolutionary new Defense+ active protection technology creates a special micro-film on the skin to eliminate sweat, provide comfort and continuous protection. Our experts have reduced the size of the active particles to better penetrate into the pores and prevent the appearance of sweat. After application, the antiperspirant is quickly absorbed and provides maximum ***** protection even under extreme conditions (stressful situations, high air temperature, sports activities). It does not require reapplication throughout the day and is great for regular use. Energetic aroma of fresh fruits with floral notes and woody-musky accents creates an original composition.

Choose an antiperspirant from the Rexona Clinical Protection line in a convenient format: aerosolOpens in a new window, roll-onOpens in a new window or stickOpens in a new window . Thanks to reliable protection against sweat and odor, you can set new sports goals and lead an active lifestyle with maximum*** comfort!

The change in sweat odor in women should not be ignored. It is important to determine the cause of such a phenomenon and find an appropriate way to solve the problem. Looking for a long-lasting antiperspirant that won’t let you down in extreme situations? Try products from the Rexona Clinical Protection line.

* Cinical prtection – protection against excessive perspiration.
** In-vivo microbiological test: 40-fold reduction in bacteria 24 hours after application compared to using bare soap alone without the use of antiperspirant (Unilever R&D, UK, February 2018) . More details on the website www.rexona.ru.
*** 3 times more effective than Unilever’s baseline antiperspirant aerosol, protects against perspiration, hot room tested 96 hours Unilever R&D, United Kingdom, 2018.
**** NCBI. Sandra Fowkes Godek // Sweat Rates and Fluid Turnover in Professional Football Players: A Comparison of National Football League Linemen and Backs // https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2267333/Opens in a new window
***** In the Rexona range

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