From the Research
To improve body odor ratings, focus on daily hygiene, diet modifications, and appropriate product use, as these approaches have been shown to be effective in reducing body odor. The most recent and highest quality study 1 emphasizes the importance of understanding hygiene and its role in preventing the spread of diseases, which can be applied to body odor management.
Daily Hygiene
- Take daily showers using antibacterial soap, paying special attention to areas with apocrine glands like armpits and groin.
- Apply an effective antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride at night, and use a pleasant deodorant during the day.
- Wear clean clothes made of natural fibers like cotton that allow skin to breathe.
Diet Modifications
- Modify your diet by reducing consumption of garlic, onions, curry, alcohol, and red meat, while increasing water intake to 2-3 liters daily.
- Avoid smoking as it permeates skin and clothing with unpleasant odors.
Appropriate Product Use
- Consider using fragrance products strategically - apply cologne or perfume to pulse points like wrists and neck, but don't overdo it.
- Use antibacterial soaps and deodorants that are designed to reduce bacterial growth, which contributes to body odor.
These approaches work because body odor primarily comes from bacteria breaking down sweat components, particularly in apocrine gland secretions 2. Diet affects odor through metabolites excreted through skin and breath. Maintaining good hydration helps dilute waste compounds in sweat, while proper clothing choices reduce bacterial growth environments.
It's also important to note that certain medical conditions, such as trimethylaminuria, can cause body odor due to the accumulation of volatile compounds in the body 2. In such cases, treatment with antibiotics or activated charcoal may be beneficial. However, for general body odor management, the above approaches are recommended.
In terms of specific products, daily chlorhexidine baths have been shown to be effective in reducing bacterial colonization and infection in hospital settings 3. However, for personal use, antibacterial soaps and deodorants are more practical and effective options.
Overall, a combination of good hygiene practices, diet modifications, and appropriate product use can help improve body odor ratings and reduce the risk of body odor-related social distress.