The Best Way To Stop Body Odor Without Deodorant
Wondering how to stop body odor without deodorant? Then you might need to change your diet and try some natural remedies, such as tea tree oil or baking soda. But first, it's important to figure out what's causing your problem. Contrary to popular belief, sweat doesn't actually smell. The culprits behind body odor are hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, acetone, and other volatile compounds that interact with the bacteria in your system (via the International Journal of Molecular Sciences).
For example, certain foods can increase the production of foul-smelling compounds and cause changes in body odor, notes the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Broccoli, kale, garlic, onions, and asparagus are just a few. Body odor also depends on your age and genetics. The ABCC11 gene, for instance, has a direct impact on axillary odor, explains a 2010 review published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. The source reports that Caucasians and Africans have a much stronger axillary odor than Asian people.
Deodorants and antiperspirants are not always the best options. Antiperspirants reduce odor-causing bacteria, but their effects are short-lived. Deodorants, on the other hand, can only cover the smell. "Without antiperspirant, perhaps your skin may better clear dirt, oil, and debris that accumulate on the skin and within the sweat glands," dermatologist Joshua Zeichner told Well and Good. He also says that it's possible to develop some resistance to these products over time. So, what can you do to stop body odor?
Try natural deodorant alternatives for lasting freshness
Just because you're not using deodorant doesn't mean you should walk around drenched in sweat. One solution is to use tea tree oil and other natural remedies. Due to its antimicrobial activity, tea tree oil kills odor-causing bacteria and leaves you feeling fresh (per Healthline). To stay safe, dilute it with olive oil or other carrier oils and then test it on a small area of skin.
Another way to stop body odor without deodorant is to rub cornstarch or baking soda under your arms or breasts. Both products can absorb sweat and excess sebum, keeping you dry throughout the day. Baking soda will also change the pH of your underarm, which in turn may help eliminate body odor, says Dr. Keith Roach (via The Detroit News). The downside is that it may cause skin irritation because of its alkaline pH level. In a recent interview with Women's Health, dermatologist Joshua Zeichner said that it's important to do a patch test before applying baking soda to your armpits.
Hydrogen peroxide will do the trick, too. Mix 1 teaspoon of peroxide into a cup of water and then rub it on your feet, under your arms, or in the groin area, recommends WebMD. This mixture helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria and may reduce body odor. If all else fails, consider using Botox to stop excessive sweating. In one study, Botox injections improved body odor and reduced its intensity, reports JAMA Dermatology.