From the Research
Perspiration odor is the finding related to the combination of sweat with normal bacterial flora on the skin. When we sweat, our eccrine and apocrine glands release a mostly odorless fluid containing water, salts, and organic compounds. The characteristic body odor develops when bacteria naturally present on our skin, particularly in areas like the armpits and groin, metabolize these compounds. The bacteria break down proteins and lipids in sweat into volatile compounds such as thioalcohols, which produce the distinctive smell. This process is completely normal and varies in intensity based on factors like diet, genetics, hygiene practices, and stress levels. According to a study published in 2023 1, the skin-associated bacterial species exhibit unique growth profiles at different concentrations of artificial sweat and sebum, suggesting that the capacity for sebum utilization may be a driver of the skin microbial community structure. Another study from 1988 2 found that coryneform bacteria are able to produce the typical axillary odor by decomposition of apocrine sweat. While dehydration can affect sweat production, acne relates to clogged pores and sebum, and skin color is determined by melanin, none of these are directly caused by the interaction between sweat and skin bacteria that produces body odor.
Some key points to consider:
- The skin microbiota thrive on the skin and have adapted to the stressful conditions, including low pH, osmotic pressure, and low nutrient availability 1.
- The growth of skin-associated bacterial species is dependent on the concentration of artificial sweat and sebum, with most strains evaluated demonstrating a preference for high sweat concentrations 1.
- Coryneform bacteria are responsible for odor production, and their growth is dependent on the decomposition of apocrine sweat 2.
- Hyperhidrosis is associated with an increased risk of skin infections, including bacterial and fungal infections 3.
- Topical therapies, such as aluminum salts and anticholinergics, can be effective in managing hyperhidrosis and reducing sweat production 4, 5.
Overall, the combination of sweat with normal bacterial flora on the skin is directly related to the production of perspiration odor, and understanding the skin microbiota and their role in odor production can inform the development of effective treatments for hyperhidrosis and other skin conditions.