Body odour is important for everyone to consider because most people who have it do not even know-Except you tell them.


Body odour, also known as Bromhidrosis happens at puberty because of increasing hormones called androgens. While sweat itself is virtually odourless, bacteria use it as a breeding ground and multiply rapidly. What you smell is the products related to bacteria breakdown of keratin protein on the surface of your skin.



Body odour is usually associated with the armpits, however bacteria can also produce odour in the groin, anus area, upper thighs, and feet, among other places. Thoroughly washing your skin with a wet washcloth and soap -- especially those areas prone to sweating -- can help prevent body odour. If you want to be "odour-free" consider the following tips:




1. Apply an antiperspirant at bedtime. This gives the product a chance to work while you sleep and are not sweating. If you apply antiperspirants after showering in the morning, the sweat you accumulate will wash away the product and render you defenseless against daytime sweating. Remember, deodorants do not prevent sweating. They mainly mask the smell of the sweat on your skin. Antiperspirants are chemical agents that reduce sweating. Many antiperspirant preparations also contain a deodorant, which helps to mask the smell. Check the product you use to make sure it contains an antiperspirant.



2. Keep your underarms dry. Bacteria have a hard time breeding in dry areas of the body.




3. Try a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water to fight body odour. Use 1 teaspoon of peroxide (3%) to 1 cup (8 ounces) of water. Wipe this on affected areas (underarm, feet, groin) with a washcloth. This may help destroy some of the bacteria that creates odour.




4. If sweat from working out is your No. 1 cause of body odour, wash your workout clothes often. Sweaty gym clothes are a bacteria-breeding ground.




5. Change your diet. Sometimes, fatty foods, oils, or strong- smelling foods such as garlic, curry, and onions, can seep through your pores and cause body odour (always see a doctor or dietician before making drastic dietary changes).




6. If you have excessive sweating (called hyperhidrosis), talk to your doctor. There are a few treatment options for those with more severe sweating who desire more aggressive treatments. Also, certain medical problems can lead to excessive sweating. Your doctor can make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.




7. Shaving your underarm regularly will help prevent the accumulation of bacteria and can reduce sweat and odour.