Why Do My Armpits Smell Even With Deodorant?
If your deodorant isn’t doing its job, you might be wondering why do my armpits smell even with deodorant? Deodorant helps to keep body odor and sweat in check but when it fails you, it’s only natural to wonder why your armpits smell even with deodorant.
While smelly armpits are usually nothing to worry about, there are some reasons why armpits smell even with deodorant. Read on to find out what could be causing your armpit odor and what you can do about it.
What Causes Armpit Smell?
Underarm odors usually occur when you sweat. The body is comprised of two types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine sweat glands. Eccrine glands can be found all over the body, while apocrine glands are present in most hairy areas, like the underarms and groin. When you’re hot, your apocrine glands produce a thick fluid. When this fluid comes into contact with bacteria on the skin, it produces a strong odor.
In other words, it’s not sweat itself that smells. It’s the mixture of sweat and bacteria that causes body odor. Even if you’re using deodorant, you might still experience body odour. This could be due to hormonal changes, stress, diet, or even a medical condition.
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Why Do My Armpits Smell Even With Deodorant?
Deodorant is designed to mask odors. If you’re still experiencing underarm odor even with deodorant, there could be a few reasons why. Here’s why armpits smell even with deodorant.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes are a common underlying cause of smelly armpits. During menopause, for instance, estrogen levels decrease which can cause increased sweating. This heightened sweating, especially in the armpit region, can contribute to the development of body odor.
You may also experience underarm odors during puberty when aprocrine sweat glands become larger and active, causing increased body odor.
Armpit Hair
Underarm hair itself doesn’t directly cause odor, but it can contribute to the development of body odor. Body odor is a result of the interaction between sweat and bacteria on the skin’s surface. Armpit hair provides more surface area for bacteria to thrive. The hair can trap and hold onto sweat, creating an environment where bacteria can flourish and ultimately, body odor occurs.
Shaving your underarms regularly can help prevent armpits from smelling. By keeping your underarms smooth and hair-free, bacteria can’t get trapped and smells shouldn’t arise.
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Stink-Inducing Foods
Why do my armpits smell even with deodorant? It could be down to what you’re eating. Certain foods can generate odors in the armpit area. Garlic, onions, and spicy foods are some of the most common offenders.
Compounds from pungent foods like garlic and onions can be absorbed into the bloodstream during digestion. These compounds may then be released through sweat glands, contributing to an unpleasant body odor. Additionally, spicy foods can stimulate sweat production, leading to increased moisture in the armpit area where bacteria thrive, further intensifying underarm odor.
On the plus side, if you notice a certain food is causing your underarm odor, it’s easy to avoid or limit it in your diet.
Poor Hygiene
Keeping your underarm area clean is essential for preventing bacteria and ultimately, body odor. By practicing good hygiene, you remove odor-causing bacteria while maximizing the effectiveness of your daily deodorant.
Use an antibacterial soap or body cleanser daily to break down sweat and odor, keeping your armpits clean and fresh. Always take a shower directly after strenuous activities to prevent sweat and bacteria from accumulating and causing odors.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a common condition characterized by excessive sweating—and it could be the source of smelly armpits. While sweat itself isn’t smelly, foul odors may surface when sweat and bacteria mix.
Some medical conditions may be causing hyperhidrosis, such as diabetes, overactive thyroid, and obesity. Consult your health care provider or dermatologist for advice. Usually, it can be controlled with over-the-counter antiperspirants.
Another Underlying Medical Condition
Another reason your armpits still smell with deodorant: an underlying medical condition. Some health problems can produce foul body odor. Bromhidrosis (excessive body odor) can occur from infections and metabolic disorders. Speak to your doctor if you suspect you may be dealing with one of these medical conditions.
Tips to Keep Your Armpits Smelling Fresh
Dealing with smelly armpits even with deodorant? Here are some easy ways to keep your underarms odor-free.
Wear Loose, Breathable Fabrics
Tight clothing can trap heat and moisture, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Opt for breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen. These fabrics promote better circulation and help to wick away moisture, reducing the chances of bacterial growth and body odor.
Choose the Right Deodorant
Not all deodorants are created equal. Look for a clean, aluminum-free formula that exfoliates and combats body odor. If you’re experiencing excessive sweating, you may benefit from antiperspirant deodorants.
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Practice Good Personal Hygiene
Regularly washing your armpits with antibacterial soap can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Ensure you thoroughly dry your underarms after each shower to create an environment less conducive to bacterial growth.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps regulate your body temperature and can contribute to reducing the amount of sweat produced, ultimately preventing underarm odors. Aim to drink several glasses per day to keep body temperature in check and odors at bay.
Shave Armpit Hair
Hair can trap and hold onto odor-causing bacteria, contributing to unpleasant smells. Keeping your underarm hair well-groomed can minimize bacterial growth and make it easier for deodorant to absorb and penetrate the skin. Alternatively, try trimming the area to keep your pits groomed and odor-free.
Limit Certain Foods
Some foods, such as onions, garlic, red meat, cumin, and spicy dishes can contribute to body odor. Moderate your intake of these foods to help reduce the intensity of underarm odor. You'll notice a difference quickly if the culprit is smelly foods.
Why Armpits Smell Even With Deodorant?
Hormonal changes, health conditions, and certain foods can all cause underarms to smell even with deodorant. While there are a variety of home remedies such as baking soda and apple cider vinegar, we advise against them as they can be too harsh for the delicate underarm skin.
To keep your underarms smelling fresh, always practice good hygiene, wear breathable clothing, shave away odor-trapping hair, and swipe on a good deodorant. If you have any concerns or suspect you might have an underlying health condition, seek medical advice from your healthcare provider.
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