6 Ways to Prevent Body Odor
Most of us have dealt with body odor at some point. While it is natural and evolutionary to have a distinct scent, we get that there are times that you want to feel “fresh" and confident.
Here are some 6 best practices and considerations when it comes to combatting body odor.
1. Regular showers & good hygiene practices to prevent body odor
Regular showers and daily hygienic practices are one of your best tools against body odor. When you hop in the shower, use a mild antibacterial soap to wash away the daily accumulation of sweat, bacteria, and any lingering odors (1).
2. Exfoliate your armpits
Exfoliating your armpits helps to remove bacteria and sweat buildup, reducing the risk of unwanted or excessive odor. When it comes to washing your armpits, you can exfoliate using a gentle konjac sponge which has additional benefits of improving circulation and exfoliating the skin.
3. Find a natural deodorant that works with your body chemistry.
Natural deodorants are your trusty sidekick in the fight against underarm odor. A good natural deodorant will improve or eliminate odor while still allowing the body to sweat. The ability to sweat is important as it ensures your sweat cycle is regulating your body temperature as it should, without causing a buildup of harmful chemicals and bacteria in your armpits, which can contribute to body odor. Choose a deodorant that suits your preference and opt for scents that resonate with you (2). Nala Care deodorants come in a variety of scents and strengths, so you can find a natural deodorant that works for you.
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4. Your clothing can affect your body odor
The clothes you wear can either be your allies or foes in the battle against body odor. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials that allow air to circulate and keep you cool. Tight, synthetic fabrics can trap sweat and create a breeding ground for bacteria. So, let your body breathe (3).
5. Drink more water! How diet & lifestyle can affect body odor
Believe it or not, what you eat and drink can have an impact on your body odor. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This helps flush out toxins and dilutes the concentration of sweat. As for your diet, foods like onions, garlic, and spicy dishes can make your sweat smell stronger. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to keep things in check (4).
6. Explore tools for stress management that work for you.
Ah, stress—the not-so-friendly companion that can make us sweat more and, you guessed it, stink more. While managing stress is no easy tasks, experiment with ways that can help you manage your stress, whether it's through exercise, meditation, or indulging in activities that bring you joy. Our stress sweat smells different than our cooling sweat, so it’s important to have effective management techniques to combat the effects of stress-related B.O.
Everyone’s body is unique, so finding what works best for you may take a little trial and error. Don't get discouraged if the first approach doesn't do the trick—keep exploring until you find the perfect combination of strategies that work for you and your body.
A little bit of body odor is normal, we are just conditioned to want to smell like cucumbers and lavender. If you find these tricks do not work for you or that your body odor continues to be persistent and bothersome to you, speak to a doctor for further guidance.
References:
[1] WebMD. Sweating and Body Odor. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/sweating-and-body-odor
[2] Healthline. 10 Tips to Help Prevent Body Odor Naturally. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-prevent-body-odor
[3] MedicalNewsToday - "How to prevent body odor: Tips and tricks": https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318496
[4] American Academy of Dermatology Association - "Body Odor": https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/sweating-prevention
