How To Get Rid Of Body Odor: Home Remedies For Underarm Smell

Body odor can be a major source of embarrassment to many people, especially when it comes to underarm smell. Underarm smell is caused by bacteria that thrive in warm, moist environments such as sweat. Fortunately, there are a number of home remedies you can use to get rid of this unpleasant odor.

Understanding Underarm Odor

Underarm odor, also known as axillary odor, is caused by bacteria that thrive in the moist areas of our body, such as the underarms, groin, and feet. When these bacteria break down the sweat produced by the glands in these areas, they create an unpleasant smell that is commonly referred to as body odor or BO.

How Sweat Causes Underarm Odor

Sweat itself doesn’t actually smell bad. In fact, sweat is odorless until it is broken down by the bacteria on our skin. The bacteria break down the sweat into its constituent parts, including fatty acids and amino acids, which produce the characteristic smell of body odor. The amount and type of bacteria on our skin can vary from person to person, which is why some people have more severe body odor than others.

Factors That Contribute To Underarm Odor

• Hot and humid weather
• Tight-fitting clothing
• Poor hygiene
• Eating certain foods (i.e. garlic, onions)
• Excessive sweating
• Medical conditions (i.e. diabetes, hyperhidrosis)

Home Remedies For Underarm Smell

If you suffer from underarm odor, there are many simple and effective home remedies that you can try to eliminate it. Below are some of the most effective remedies:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for underarm odor because of its antibacterial properties. It can help kill the bacteria that cause underarm odor and also help to balance your skin’s pH levels.

How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a cup of water and mix well. Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture to your underarms. Allow the mixture to dry before putting on clothing.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is another effective home remedy for underarm odor because it can help absorb moisture and neutralize odor.

How To Use Baking Soda

Apply a small amount of baking soda to your underarms and rub it in well. You can also mix baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it to your underarms. Leave the mixture on for 10-15 minutes before washing it off with water.

3. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has natural antimicrobial properties that can help kill the bacteria that cause underarm odor.

How To Use Tea Tree Oil

Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil. Apply the mixture to your underarms and massage it in well.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural deodorant that can help eliminate underarm odor.

How To Use Lemon Juice

Cut a lemon in half and rub it directly onto your underarms. Allow the juice to dry before putting on clothes.

5. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help reduce underarm odor by tightening the pores in your skin and reducing sweat production.

How To Use Witch Hazel

Apply witch hazel to your underarms using a cotton ball. Allow it to dry before putting on clothes.

Lifestyle Changes For Reducing Underarm Odor

In addition to using home remedies for underarm odor, there are also some simple lifestyle changes that you can make to help reduce body odor.

1. Practice Good Hygiene

The most important thing you can do to reduce underarm odor is to practice good hygiene. This includes showering or bathing daily, washing your underarms thoroughly, and using an antiperspirant or deodorant.

2. Wear Breathable Clothing

Tight-fitting clothing can trap sweat and bacteria against your skin, which can lead to underarm odor. Opt for loose, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo.

3. Change Your Diet

Certain foods like garlic and onions can contribute to underarm odor. Try to avoid these foods or limit your consumption of them.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help flush toxins out of your body and reduce the amount of bacteria on your skin.

5. Reduce Stress

Stress can cause your body to produce more sweat and contribute to underarm odor. Try to reduce your stress levels through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques.

How To Get Rid Of Underarm Odor From Clothes

Underarm odor can often linger in clothing even after it has been washed. To eliminate underarm odor from your clothes, try the following tips:

1. Pre-Treat Clothing

Pre-treating clothing with a mixture of baking soda and water can help neutralize odor before washing.

How To Pre-Treat Clothing

Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water and apply the mixture to the underarm areas of your clothing. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes before washing as usual.

2. Use An Odor-Eliminating Detergent

There are many detergents on the market that are specifically designed to remove odors from clothing. Look for a detergent that contains enzymes, which can break down the proteins in sweat that cause odor.

3. Wash Clothing In Hot Water

Washing clothing in hot water can help kill the bacteria that cause underarm odor. Be sure to follow the care instructions on your clothing label to avoid damaging your clothes.

4. Hang Clothes Out In The Sun

Hanging clothes out in the sun can help eliminate odor and bacteria. The UV rays from the sun can kill bacteria and freshen up clothing.

5. Use A Fabric Refresher Spray

A fabric refresher spray can help freshen up your clothing in between washes. Look for a spray that contains essential oils or other natural ingredients that can help neutralize odor.

FAQ

Q: How Often Should I Shower To Reduce Underarm Odor?

For most people, showering or bathing once a day is sufficient to reduce underarm odor. However, if you are particularly active or live in a hot, humid climate, you may need to shower more frequently.

Q: Do Certain Foods Really Contribute To Underarm Odor?

Yes, certain foods like garlic and onions can contribute to underarm odor because they contain compounds that are released through the skin when we sweat. Avoiding these foods or limiting your consumption of them can help reduce underarm odor.

Q: Is Excessive Sweating A Sign Of Hyperhidrosis?

Excessive sweating can be a symptom of hyperhidrosis, a medical condition that causes excessive sweating. If you are concerned about your sweating, talk to your doctor about your symptoms.

Remedy	Effectiveness	Cost
Apple Cider Vinegar	Effective	Inexpensive
Baking Soda	Effective	Inexpensive
Tea Tree Oil	Effective	Moderate
Lemon Juice	Effective	Inexpensive
Witch Hazel	Effective	Moderate

Conclusion

Underarm odor can be a source of embarrassment for many people, but it doesn’t have to be. By using these home remedies and making simple lifestyle changes, you can eliminate underarm odor and enjoy a fresh, clean scent all day long.