Summer often brings the embarrassment of noticeable sweat stains under our armpits. Sweating heavily can also result in an unpleasant odor, which varies from person to person. But why do our armpits tend to sweat and smell more than other parts of our body?
The notorious armpit sweat odor
The strong sweat smell from the armpits is due to the high distribution of sweat glands called apocrine glands. Our bodies have two types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine. The sweat that comes from the eccrine glands is germ-free and odorless. On the other hand, the sweat from the apocrine glands flows into the hair follicles. It decomposes the sweat from the sebaceous glands connected to the follicles, creating a substance called ammonia, the origin of the bad smell.
Using deodorant
Applying deodorants when the skin is completely dry is essential to suppress armpit sweat secretion and eliminate odors. Otherwise, deodorants may irritate the skin. When the moisture of the skin and the ingredients of the deodorant meet, they create a hydrochloric acid component that can cause inflammation or acne.
Natural deodorants function the same
If the chemical ingredients in deodorants impede their usage, alternatives exist made from natural ingredients that can be easily made at home using baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils. Due to its weak alkalinity, baking soda is effective in absorbing sweat and neutralizing odors. Coconut oil provides a moisturizing effect on the skin, and essential oils act as natural fragrances.
Applying sweat pads
Have you heard of sweat pads that celebrities often use? These pads, which can be attached to clothes, are known for their excellent absorbency and adhesion. They keep the clothes fit while preventing the armpits from getting wet. Attach them to the inside of the clothes, and it’s all set. The pads will stay dry and fragrant all day long. Plus, being only 0.3mm thick, they won’t show at all, even under thin clothes.
Correcting eating habits
Reducing fat intake can decrease armpit sweat odor. Meat, butter, and other high-fat, high-calorie foods increase the secretion of hormones that stimulate sweat glands and intensify body odor. Also, avoid foods with strong scents, such as garlic, chives, onions, and peppers, and foods high in salt, which can also intensify sweat odor, like meat and dairy products.
Reducing alcohol and cigarettes
Alcohol and cigarettes can escalate the smell and degree of sweat from the armpits, even with a small amount of sweat. Alcohol is absorbed into the body, and when it is secreted as sweat, the smell becomes stronger. Nicotine from cigarettes also stimulates sweat glands and promotes perspiration, which can augment armpit odor.
Escape from obesity
People with a high degree of obesity tend to sweat more than those who aren’t. When you gain a lot of weight, the metabolic rate required to maintain activity increases. As a result, more energy is used, raising the body temperature and naturally causing more sweat.
Is laser treatment effective?
Laser treatments are effective for bromhidrosis (foul-smelling sweat) and alleviating hyperhidrosis because they burn off sweat glands. Some surgeries directly remove sweat glands by cutting the skin or blocking sympathetic nerves. However, when medications or treatments don’t work, it is advisable to try these surgeries after a thorough consultation with a specialist.
How about Botox?
Commonly referred to as “armpit Botox,” it’s true that the treatment was once shied away due to side effects such as sweating in other areas. When sweat secretion decreases in a particular area, our bodies naturally try to regulate body temperature by secreting sweat elsewhere. However, this side effect is extremely rare! Botox is about three months, although it can vary from person to person, and repeated treatments are possible. It is recommended that the treatment be received at a shorter interval during the summer when sweating increases.
It’s not without side effects
In addition to compensatory hyperhidrosis, temporary muscle weakness, pain or bruising at the injection site, redness, and swelling can occur. Rarely, folliculitis may occur, so you should immediately visit a hospital for treatment. Also, to prevent Botox from spreading to unintended areas, it is advisable not to rub or massage the treatment area for 24 hours after the procedure.
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