How to Get Rid of Body Odor: 9 Fixes That Actually Work
Practical, science-backed ways to stop body odor, from washing technique to fabrics, plus when odor is worth a trip to the doctor.
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In this guide
Body odor is incredibly common, and usually very fixable. It happens when bacteria on your skin break down sweat. Cut down the sweat, the bacteria or both, and the smell goes with them. Here are the fixes that make the biggest difference.
1. Wash smarter, not just more
Rinsing with water isn't enough. Use soap or body wash on your underarms, groin and feet every day, and actually lather for a few seconds. Then dry completely, since bacteria thrive on damp skin.
2. Use the right product for your problem
If smell is the issue, use a deodorant. If you're also sweaty, use an antiperspirant. Not sure? Read deodorant vs. antiperspirant.
3. Apply antiperspirant at night
Antiperspirant works best on dry skin while your sweat glands are quiet. Bedtime application is a simple trick that makes most antiperspirants noticeably more effective. Here are our picks for heavy sweating.
4. Try a stronger odor-fighter
If a standard deodorant fades by afternoon, try one that works differently. Acid-based formulas like Lume lower skin pH, which odor-causing bacteria dislike.
5. Trim or shave underarm hair
Hair traps sweat and gives bacteria more surface area. Many people notice less odor with shorter underarm hair.
6. Choose breathable fabrics
Synthetic fabrics like polyester tend to hold onto odor more than natural fibers. Cotton, linen, merino wool and fabrics labeled "anti-odor" are better choices, especially for workouts.
7. Wash workout clothes promptly
Odor-causing bacteria can linger in fabric. Wash sweaty clothes soon, turn them inside out, and don't leave them balled up in a gym bag.
8. Look at what you eat and drink
Some foods, such as garlic, onions and strong spices, and alcohol can change how you smell for a while. It's worth noticing if odor spikes after certain meals.
9. Manage stress sweat
Stress sweat comes from apocrine glands, the same glands responsible for underarm odor. A clinical-strength antiperspirant and breathable layers can help on high-pressure days.
Products that help
- Aluminum-free deodorant: our top picks
- Heavy sweating: Certain Dri Clinical Strength
- Gentle daily wash: CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash
FAQ
Why do I still smell after showering?
Common reasons are not using soap on odor-prone areas, not drying completely, putting on clothes that still hold odor, or sweating heavily soon after. A stronger deodorant or antiperspirant applied to dry skin usually helps.
Can diet cause body odor?
Foods like garlic, onions and certain spices, as well as alcohol, can temporarily affect body odor for some people.
When is body odor a sign of a medical problem?
A sudden change in body odor, an unusual smell, or odor with other symptoms is worth discussing with a doctor.