Ever had that moment where you wonder if your body smells?
Photo via MissionBox
Don’t worry, it happens! Body odour is completely natural, however, the smell can sometimes be too much and it can be very embarrassing.
Here are 5 simple steps you can take to prevent body odour, according to WebMD.
#1 Always keep yourself clean!
Shower at least once a day.
Yes, even if you’re planning to stay in bed all day, make sure you shower first thing in the morning, or before you go to sleep. By showering, you’ll wash away sweat and get rid of some of the bacteria on your skin.
Sweat itself is odourless, but when the bacteria that live on your skin mix with sweat, they multiply quickly and raise quite a stink. So, wash your body thoroughly when you shower, especially the areas where you tend to sweat more.
#2 Use antibacterial soap
Look for the word ‘antibacterial’ when you’re buying a soap.
Washing your body with an antibacterial soap bar will help get rid of some bacteria, which can help to control body odour.
#3 Dry yourself well
Once you’ve showered, make sure to dry yourself off completely with a clean towel.
Make sure to pay attention to the areas where you sweat a lot as well, because if your skin is dry, it’s harder for bacteria that cause body odour to breed.
#4 Keep your clothes clean
Change your clothes often if you’re sweating a lot!
Fresh clothes help keep your body odour down. Also, make sure to change your socks as well, especially if your feet tend to smell. If that doesn't work, try using deodorant powders in your shoes and replace the insoles often.
#5 Cut back on certain foods or drinks
What you eat affects your body odour.
Foods that tend to make you sweat more, such as hot peppers of other spicy foods might also lead to unpleasant body odours, and the aroma of foods like garlic or onions can be carried in your sweat. Drinks that contain caffeine may also make you sweat more.
Photo via New Atlas
You should see a doctor if your body smells different than usual...
A sweet or fruity smell could indicate diabetes due to high levels of ketones in the bloodstream.
Meanwhile, liver or kidney disease can often make a person have a bleach-like smell due to a build-up of toxins in the body.
Hope this helps!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
