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Fight Off Body Odor this Summer!

August 21, 2011 | Tiffany Quach

Most of us never notice that we've never had body odor as children and that's because it's dormant until puberty. And when it starts to rear its ugly head, we often get embarrassed. However, sweating is a normal process that our body goes through when exposed to heat. We sweat because our body wants to regulate our body temperature. The problem we have is that body odor occur when bacteria and sweat meet. So how do we fight off body odors? Here's a few tips!

Tip #1 - After washing with soap and you've finished drying, it's best ti immediately apply antiperspirant. Remember though that deodorants don't prevent sweating! They merely mask the smell of the bacteria that makes contact with your sweaty skin. Antiperspirants, on the other hand, have chemical agents that reduce sweating and most contain some sort of deodorant. So be sure to check the product before you buy to see if it contains antiperspirant.

Tip #2 - Try and keep your underarms dry. Bacteria tends to have a hard time attaching to dry areas of the body.

Tip #3 - Try a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. Use one teaspoon of peroxide (3%) to one cup (8 ounces) of water. Then wipe this onto affected areas with a washcloth. This can help kill some of the odor smelling bacteria.

Tip #4 - If sweating from working out is your main cause of body odor, be sure to wash your workout clothes often. Bacteria especially love sweaty gym clothes.

Tip #5 - Change your diet up a bit. Sometimes fatty foods, oils, or strong smelling foods such as garlic, curry, and onions can seep through your pores. Before making drastic dietary changes, be sure to consult your doctor or dietician!

Tip #6 - If you sweat excessively (called hyperhidrosis), talk to your doctor. There are treatments available.

Tip #7 - Be sure to shave your underarms regularly. This will help prevent the accumulation of bacteria and can help reduce sweat and odor.

Body odor is something we all have to deal with, but it doesn't mean that it can't be minimized by using the tips described.