Is it hard to get rid of body odour even after a bath? Blame these 5 reasons

These 5 causes of body odour can make your body smell even after you've taken a bath. Find out how to avoid it right here.
causes of body odour
Body odour is a fairly common issue. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Aayushi Gupta Published: 20 Jun 2022, 08:59 am IST
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We all sweat, but not all of us stink! Some people are bothered by chronic unpleasant body odour. We all agree that spritzing yourself with perfume and soaking in a tub infused with bath bombs can make you smell better. But, even after a bath, are you unable to get rid of body odour? If this describes you, you should learn about the causes of body odour.

To know the exact causes behind chronic body odour even after a bath and ways to get rid of it, Health Shots spoke to Dr Pramod Kumar, Consultant-Dermatology, KMC Hospital, Dr B.R. Ambedkar Circle, Mangalore.

Dr Kumar says, “Body odour is a broad term for a variety of odours that emanate from a person’s body. The body produces a number of substances that are required for normal bodily functions. These substances can become foul-smelling when in excess or when acted upon by external sources.”

causes of body odour
Chronic body odour can be because of many reasons. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

He adds, “Sweat, though odourless, when broken down by bacteria on the skin, can become odourous.“

Here are the major causes of chronic body odour

1. Hormones

Excessive sweating and body odour can be caused by hormonal fluctuations. According to Dr Kumar, “Body odour is more noticeable during puberty, pregnancy, premenopausal, premenopausal or menopausal stages due to increased hormonal and sweat gland activity.” During this stage, women experience hot flashes and night sweats, which increase sweating and odour.

2. Certain diseases

Any cause of excessive sweating increases the possibility of body odour. Sweating can also be caused by certain medical conditions and diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, thyroid, kidney diseases, liver diseases, infectious diseases, and gout, which can lead to an increase in body odour. If you notice a sudden change in your body odour, you should check for other symptoms of these diseases and consult a doctor.

3. Spicy foods

According to Dr Kumar, “Excess dietary intake of spicy foods, onions, garlic, alcohol, and caffeine may also cause foul-smelling sweat.” In fact, increasing protein consumption may result in increased body odour.

causes of body odour
Spicy food can cause body odour. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

4. Stress

Body odour is common in people who are anxious, nervous, or stressed. If you’re smelling strange, your body is probably under a lot of stress.

5. Other causes

Aside from these factors, hot weather, a rigorous regular workout routine, regular alcohol consumption, not changing underwear and bra regularly, wearing synthetic clothes, and a high sugar intake may all contribute to body odour.

Tips to get rid of body odour

1. Maintain hygiene

Body hygiene plays an important role in body odour. Take a daily bath or shower with antibacterial soap to keep your body clean and fresh. This will help to eliminate unpleasant odours.

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2. Shaving the armpits

Pay special attention to sweaty, hairy areas such as the armpits and groin. Shaving these areas helps sweat evaporate faster, preventing bacterial action on sweat.

3. Avoid wearing synthetic clothing

Avoid wearing synthetic clothing, which prevents sweat from evaporating properly and can promote the growth of bacteria, resulting in body odour.

4. Use antiperspirant

Antiperspirants and deodorants reduce perspiration by making your body less hospitable to bacterial growth and by blocking sweat glands. They should be used twice a day.

causes of body odour
Deodorant can make you smell good. Period. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

5. Change and wash your clothes regularly

Avoid using unwashed clothes. Also, make sure detergents and soaps are completely rinsed off from the clothes.

Takeaway

Body odour, ladies, is usually not a sign of anything serious. However, if you have a problem like excessive and constant sweating that is causing unpleasant odour, you should consult your doctor.

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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