A lot of us struggle with armpit odour, even in the middle ages, male and female alike. As the Rainy season is here when the weather is much more humid, people who work outside or have to travel by public transport sweat a lot and start smelling after some time.
To understand why this situation develops, we need to know that there are two types of glands in our armpit - the Apocrine sweat gland, which produces a thick protein-rich secretion, and the Eccrine glands releasing a salty, clear fluid. These two secretions are mixed up in our sweat.
Our body is naturally a host to many bacteria which are required for our normal body functions. The armpit is a hotbed of such organisms. When the sweat comes out from the glands, it is relatively odourless, but then these bacteria use it as their food. The by-product of this process is a stinky odour.
An interesting thing about the armpit odour is that it differs from person to person and is influenced by factors like food, hormone, hygiene, genetics etc.
However, armpit smell is usually not a serious health issue. It is more like a social nuisance, grossing out the people around us.
There are some common causes of smelly armpits. As already mentioned, puberty is one since this is the time of hormonal changes. Pregnancy can also cause the same. Also, certain food items, e.g. onion, garlic, and broccoli can result in a smell. Excessive sweating, either pathological or physiological, is another reason.
While it is not possible to remove the odour permanently, there are ways to manage it. Showering properly is a must or at least washing and drying the armpits twice daily with soap and water.
After showering or washing, when going out, antiperspirants and deodorants can be applied. Antiperspirants mask the odour, while deodorants work against the bacteria producing it. Many commercial products contain a combination of these.
Shaving armpits regularly is advisable. This will remove the space for trapping sweat and bacteria.
Choice of clothes also matters, since clothes that keep our body cool reduce sweating. Natural fibres, i.e. cotton, wool, and silk are preferred.
Limiting foods, especially spicy foods can help too. Eating a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of water may help to keep the odour away.
When this is coupled with regular exercise, there will be a noticeable improvement. Initially, the sweat will be oily and salty, even with a bit of smell. Gradually it is expected to change to a clean and watery appearance.
If these hygienic measures don’t seem to work, use an antibacterial wash with an antimicrobial wash with 4 per cent benzoyl peroxide.
But if you still have a stinky smell, or it’s seriously hampering your self-esteem, or you identify a sudden change in smell, then it is best to consult a physician.
