Tips to Get Rid of Body Odor
Causes of Body Odor
Body odor that has an unpleasant scent is typically caused by two things: sweat and bacteria. Sweat does not have a smell, but it does create a warm, moist environment in which bacteria can thrive. It is the bacteria found naturally growing on your skin that contributes to the foul smell. Fortunately, there are some tips that can be followed to get rid of body odor and have your body smelling fresh and clean.
Keeping Clean
While this may be the most obvious of body odor treatments, proper hygiene is of the utmost importance for those dealing with this issue. Those that suffer from bad body odor tend to have a great deal more bacteria living on the skin that those that do not carry a pungent smell. Shower at least once a day, twice if possible, and use a deodorant soap in the bath to help to keep the unpleasant odor at bay.
Dietary Changes
Some people may experience a lot more sweat when eating certain foods. Dishes that contain a large amount of spices are possibly the most common cause of someone dripping sweat at the dinner table. It is a good idea to avoid these types of dishes in order to get rid of body odor. The smelly aroma of some foods, including garlic and onions, can also be excreted through the sweat glands. There foods should also be eliminated from your dietary practices if the smell is bad.
Use an Antiperspirant
Many people that have problems sweating do not realize the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant. It is important that you understand what each should be used for so that you can effectively get rid of body odor. Deodorants are cosmetic items that come with a fragrant scent. Though they can kill a small amount of the bacteria that causes unpleasant aromas, their main responsibility is to mask the smell with their own perfume.
Antiperspirants, on the other hand, are much more effective in battling bad body odor. They help to reduce the amount of sweating your body does. With less sweat, the body will stay drier and be less of a breeding ground for the smell causing bacteria. In addition, antiperspirants contain antibacterial properties which help to limit the amount of bacteria on the skin and fight the odor.
Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Body Odor
Some people may not be able to use either deodorant or antiperspirant to treat their body odor. This is especially true for those with sensitive skin. There are natural body odor treatments that can be used for those who have found the store-bought treatments to be ineffective or expensive. The following are some natural methods to help you get rid of body odor.
Baking soda is one of the most common home remedies that can assist with a lot of ailments, including bad body odor. Applying the powder to your underarms and other areas prone to sweating can help to minimize the moisture and bacteria that collects on the body. Alternatively, you can bathe in a tub of warm water that has 1/2-cup of baking soda mixed in. Baking soda is effective because it kills the bacteria and while also removing the odor.
Tea Tree Oil has antibacterial properties that will allow you to eliminate the unwanted odor. Two drops of the oil added to one cup of warm water will create a washing solution that will help alleviate odor causing bacteria wherever it is applied.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sweating-and-body-odor/DS00305
https://www.mothernature.com/Library/Bookshelf/Books/47/17.cfm
Photo courtesy of James Farmer on sxc.hu
