Causes of Underarm Odor and Effective Ways to Get Rid of It

Have you ever felt that even after showering twice a day, an unpleasant smell still comes from your underarms? Many people think that the causes of underarm odor are simply due to poor hygiene. In reality, it’s much more complex than that. There are many factors that can trigger unpleasant odors in this area — from food and hormones to certain health conditions.

Interestingly, underarm odor doesn’t always mean you’re dirty or neglecting hygiene. The human body has a unique way of processing sweat, and that’s often where the secret lies. So, before blaming your soap or deodorant, let’s find out what really causes underarm odor and how to deal with it effectively.

What Actually Happens When Your Underarms Smell?

Sweat itself doesn’t have an odor. So why does a bad smell appear? The answer lies in bacteria.

Interestingly, the source of sweat in our body isn’t just one. There are two types of glands working behind the scenes — eccrine and apocrine — and the combination of these two can be the reason your underarms produce a certain odor.

The eccrine glands produce lighter, watery sweat that usually appears when the body feels hot, while the apocrine glands produce thicker, protein-rich sweat. When sweat from apocrine glands mixes with bacteria on the skin, the proteins break down into fatty acids — and that’s what causes the bad smell.

Common Causes of Underarm Odor

1. Excess Bacteria on the Skin
   A type of bacteria called Corynebacterium is often found in the underarm area and plays a major role in body odor. If you rarely clean your armpits or often wear damp clothes, these bacteria can multiply quickly.
2. The Food You Eat
   Certain foods can also cause underarm odor. Garlic, onions, red meat, and spicy foods like curry can increase sulfur compounds in the body, which then affect the smell of sweat.
3. Stress and Hormonal Changes
   When you’re stressed or nervous, your body produces more sweat from the apocrine glands. The same thing happens during hormonal changes, such as puberty, menstruation, or menopause.
4. Clothing That Doesn’t Absorb Sweat
   Materials like polyester or nylon don’t absorb sweat well, keeping your underarms moist. This creates the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria to thrive.
5. Certain Medical Conditions
   In some cases, excessive underarm odor can be caused by medical conditions such as bromhidrosis, metabolic disorders, or uncontrolled diabetes. If body odor becomes very strong even with good hygiene, it’s best to consult a doctor.

How to Overcome Underarm Odor

1. Maintain Regular Body Hygiene
   Shower twice a day and clean the underarm area with antibacterial soap to reduce bacteria buildup. Always keep the area dry after bathing.
2. Use Deodorant or Antiperspirant
   Deodorant helps neutralize unpleasant odors, while antiperspirant works to reduce sweat production, keeping your underarms dry for longer.
3. Pay Attention to Clothing Choices
   Wear clothes made of cotton or linen that absorb sweat well. Avoid tight clothing that restricts air circulation to the skin.
4. Watch Your Diet
   Reduce the intake of strong-smelling foods and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Drinking enough water also helps lower odor-causing compounds in the body.
5. Shave or Trim Underarm Hair Regularly
   Underarm hair can trap sweat and bacteria. Shaving regularly helps keep the area clean and dry.

When Should You Be Concerned?

If underarm odor persists even after maintaining cleanliness and changing deodorants, the cause might come from inside your body. Conditions such as hormonal imbalance, skin infections, or metabolic disorders could be the reason. Don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for the right treatment.

Read Also : How to Get Rid of Body Odor Naturally and Effectively

Conclusion

The causes of underarm odor are not always due to poor hygiene. Factors like bacteria, food, hormones, clothing, and medical conditions can all play a part. By understanding the source of the problem, you can find the most effective way to handle it. Remember, your body often sends signals through small things — including odor. So, don’t ignore these subtle signs, as they might be your body’s way of asking for attention.