It stinks to admit this, but body odor happens to everyone. Ask anyone to sweat for hours and still smell like roses, and you’ll be gravely disappointed. However, there is a way to keep the odor away for a lot longer, and keep it to a minimum when that period of an odor-free armpit is over. Here are the 5 big body odor prevention tips from the experts:
1. Use an antiperspirant, not just deodorant – There is a difference between deodorant and antiperspirant products for body odor prevention. The former only tries to mask body odor, while the latter actually prevents it from occurring in the first place. Also, be sure to apply the product to clean, completely dry skin, just prior to bedtime. This will guarantee that the antiperspirant is able to absorb, which will make it work much longer. Applying the product just prior to performing activities will render you defenseless against odor, as the product will simply wash away with your sweat before it has the opportunity to absorb.
2. Wash Your Clothing in a Sports Formulated Detergent – Laundry detergents, such as Tide Sport, have additional ingredients to remove the type of odor caused by working out. They give your clothing a fresh, clean scent as well, helping to keep you smelling your best, even during intense periods of exercise in the sweltering summer sun.
3. Eat Clean and Avoid Certain Foods – As the saying goes, “You are what you eat,” the food you consume does have an effect on how your body smells. Avoid eating large amounts of highly potent smelling foods, such as garlic and onion as part of your body odor prevention plan. The odors from these foods can literally come out of your pores, especially when sweating profusely.
4. Shave Areas Where Odor is a Problem – Hair can trap in moisture, hindering your ability to stay dry and clean. Especially thick hair can be prone to this, transforming into a nursery for bacteria to thrive. Eliminate this perfect bacterial environment by removing hair from those areas.
5. Try Botox – A final resort, Botox sounds a bit unlikely, but these injections are capable of treating hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and may be able to help you with body odor prevention. A dermatologist can determine whether this treatment is a viable option for you.
