Body odor is an embarrassing problem that can make socializing difficult. It can be caused by a number of different factors including poor hygiene, hormonal changes, dietary habits, and genetics.
However, there are lots of easy ways to beat body odor and maintain a fresh, clean scent all day long. Here are 30 tips to help you stay smelling sweet and feeling confident.
1. Shower daily
The first and most important step to beating body odor is to shower every day. This removes sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells from your body, all of which contribute to odor.
Be sure to wash all parts of your body, paying particular attention to your underarms, groin, and feet.
2. Use an antibacterial soap
To really get rid of odor-causing bacteria, use an antibacterial soap. Look for ones that contain triclosan or tea tree oil.
3. Use a loofah
A loofah allows you to scrub more thoroughly, removing even more bacteria and dead skin cells.
4. Dry yourself completely
Make sure you towel dry yourself completely after your shower, paying special attention to areas where odor tends to develop, like your underarms and groin.
5. Apply antiperspirant
Antiperspirants work by blocking sweat glands and reducing moisture, which in turn reduces the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Choose an antiperspirant that also contains deodorant for an added layer of protection.
6. Use a natural deodorant
If you prefer to avoid aluminum, which is found in many antiperspirants, try a natural deodorant. These are made with ingredients like baking soda, cornstarch, and essential oils that absorb sweat and neutralize odor.
7. Wear breathable clothing
Clothing made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk are more breathable than synthetic materials like nylon and polyester. They allow air to circulate around your body, preventing sweat from pooling in certain areas.
8. Choose loose-fitting clothes
Tight clothes can trap sweat against your skin, making odor worse. Choose loose-fitting clothes that allow air to circulate around your body.
9. Wear moisture-wicking clothing
If you’re very active or tend to sweat a lot, choose clothing made from moisture-wicking materials like bamboo or merino wool. These fabrics pull sweat away from your skin, preventing odor-causing bacteria from multiplying.
10. Change your clothes regularly
Even if you’re not sweating heavily, changing your clothes regularly can help prevent odor from developing. Always change your clothes after exercising and shower as soon as possible after sweating.
11. Wash your clothes often
Washing your clothes removes sweat and bacteria that can buildup over time, leading to odor. Be sure to wash sweaty clothes after each use and avoid wearing the same clothes two days in a row if possible.
12. Wear layers
If you’re prone to sweating, choose layers that you can easily remove as necessary. This will help regulate your body temperature and prevent sweat from pooling in certain areas.
13. Use shoe inserts
Odor can develop in shoes due to sweat and bacteria. Shoe inserts made from activated charcoal or other odor-fighting materials can help absorb moisture and prevent odor from developing.
14. Air out your shoes
After wearing shoes, remove them and let them air out in a well-ventilated area. This will help prevent moisture from building up and reduce the likelihood of odor developing.
15. Wear socks made from natural fibers
Cotton, wool, and bamboo socks are more breathable than synthetic materials like polyester. They allow air to circulate around your feet, reducing sweat and odor.
16. Change your socks often
Even if your shoes don’t smell, changing your socks often can help prevent odor from developing. Always change your socks after exercising and choose moisture-wicking socks for added protection.
17. Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help absorb moisture and fight bacteria. Sprinkle a small amount in your shoes every few days to keep them smelling fresh.
18. Use foot powder
Foot powder is another effective way to absorb moisture and fight odor. Look for powders made with cornstarch or baking soda.
19. Clean your feet regularly
Wash your feet every day, paying special attention to the area between your toes where odor can develop. Use a mild soap and be sure to dry your feet thoroughly afterwards.
20. Use an exfoliating scrub
An exfoliating scrub can help remove dead skin cells and bacteria from your feet, reducing odor. Use a pumice stone or foot scrub in the shower a few times a week.
21. Change your diet
Some foods can contribute to body odor. Spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine all increase your body temperature and make you sweat more. Try to limit these foods and drink more water to stay hydrated.
22. Take probiotics
Probiotics contain healthy bacteria that can help regulate your digestive system and reduce body odor. Look for probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
23. Drink green tea
Green tea is a natural antioxidant that can help flush toxins from your body and reduce odor. Drink a cup or two every day to see the benefits.
24. Apply lemon juice
Lemon juice is a natural astringent that can help reduce sweat and odor. Apply it to your underarms or other odor-prone areas and let it dry before getting dressed.
25. Use apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another natural astringent that can help reduce sweat and odor. Dilute it with water and apply it to your skin with a cotton ball.
26. Use witch hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent with antiseptic properties that can help reduce sweat and odor. Apply it to your underarms or other odor-prone areas with a cotton ball.
27. Apply essential oils
Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, and lemon can all help fight odor and bacteria. Mix a few drops with carrier oil like coconut oil and apply it to your skin.
28. Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is important for overall health and can help reduce body odor. Aim for at least eight glasses a day.
29. Reduce stress
Stress can make you sweat more, leading to odor. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to help keep you calm and relaxed.
30. See a doctor
If you’ve tried all of these tips and still can’t beat body odor, see a doctor. They can help determine if your odor is caused by an underlying medical condition and recommend further treatment if necessary.