From the Guidelines
To improve body odor, focus on daily hygiene practices and lifestyle adjustments, as there is no direct evidence from the provided studies that specifically addresses body odor management. The provided studies 1 primarily discuss hand hygiene practices, which, although important for overall hygiene, do not directly address body odor. However, the principle of maintaining cleanliness can be applied broadly.
Key Recommendations:
- Shower daily with antibacterial soap, paying special attention to areas where sweat collects like armpits, groin, and feet.
- Apply an antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride at night and a deodorant in the morning.
- Wear clean, breathable fabrics like cotton and change clothes daily.
- Avoid odor-triggering foods such as garlic, onions, curry, and alcohol.
- Stay hydrated and manage stress, as anxiety can increase sweating. Given the lack of direct evidence on body odor from the provided studies, these recommendations are based on general principles of hygiene and management of factors that contribute to body odor. If over-the-counter products don't help after 2-3 weeks, consulting a doctor who might prescribe stronger treatments or recommend procedures for hyperhidrosis could be considered. Body odor occurs when bacteria break down sweat proteins, particularly in the apocrine glands found in hair-bearing areas, so targeting both sweat production and bacterial growth is essential for effective management 1.
From the Research
Methods to Improve Body Odor
To improve body odor, several methods can be employed, including:
- Using antiperspirants containing aluminum salts, which can help block excessive sweating 2, 3
- Applying aluminum chloride solutions, which are often used as a first-line treatment for focal hyperhidrosis 4, 5, 3
- Tap water iontophoresis, which can be an effective treatment for palmoplantar hyperhidrosis 4, 5
- Botulinum toxin injections, which can provide temporary relief from excessive sweating 4, 5
- Surgical options, such as endoscopic sympathectomy and axillary tumescent curettage and liposuction, which can be considered for severe cases of hyperhidrosis 4, 5
- Systemic medications, such as anticholinergic substances and clonidine, which can be used to treat generalized hyperhidrosis and hot flushes 5, 6
Conservative Treatment Options
Conservative treatment options are often recommended as a first-line approach, including:
- Local application of aluminum chloride or aluminum salts 4, 5, 2, 3
- Tap water iontophoresis 4, 5
- Botulinum toxin injections 4, 5
- Antiperspirants containing aluminum salts 2, 3
Surgical Treatment Options
Surgical treatment options are often considered for severe cases of hyperhidrosis, including: