Actually, most of the sweat that we produce does not have any smell. Eccrine glands, found in most of the exposed areas of the body, produce a watery sweat that usually evaporates quickly, leaving behind only dry skin, which does not attract much odor-producing bacteria. Apocrine glands produce sweat that bacteria love, and the odor created from the combination of eccrine and apocrine sweat can be a humdinger. The apocrines are located in parts of the body where moisture can collect and thus attract bacteria. So if your daily shower does not seem to be enough to keep your body odor at bay, here are some ways that you might wish to adopt.
1. Watch What You Are Eating
Certain foods, particularly spicy foods and those made with garlic, can increase body odor. If you suspect that a food or spice is causing your body odor problem, eliminate if from your diet to see if that helps.
2. Air Out Your Shoes
For as many hours as possible, go barefoot. Let your shoes air out for at least 24 hours between wearings.
3. Try Antibacterial Soap
Since body odor is the result of apocrine secretions combining with bacteria, an antibacterial soap can temporarily eliminate the source of the most offensive odors. Some antibacterial soaps, however, can dry out or irritate your skin. Read the rest of this entry »