They say every problem has a corresponding solution. Now, if your problem is your smell, how do you solve such an embarrassing dilemma?
Having body odor lowers one’s self-confidence and self-esteem; thus, it is important to free yourself from body odor whatever activity you engage in.
Here are simple and easy to do tips in helping you treat your body odor. These practical solutions answer your smelly problems.
- Take a bath regularly. Keeping yourself clean is your first resolution in responding to your odor problem. Taking a bath at least once a day will wash away sweat as well as reduce the number of bacteria on your skin. Washing thoroughly the areas that are prone to sweating also helps in lessening the presence of body odor.
- Use antibacterial soap. Antibacterial bath soaps help reduce bacteria; hence, minimize the odor.
- Dry yourself completely. After taking a bath, make sure to dry yourself with a clean towel. Dry the areas where sweating is present. If your skin is dry, it is harder for bacteria to breed unto these areas of the body, making you free from odor. Ensure also that you do not share your towel to anyone to prevent spreading of bacteria.
- Choose the right deodorant. If you do not heavily perspire, avoid using antiperspirant products. Antiperspirants are made for those who excessively sweat. Deodorants only mask the smell of bacteria on your skin while antiperspirants reduce sweating due to aluminum chloride, a chemical responsible in reducing sweat. Apply deodorant or antiperspirant twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Using antiperspirant or deodorant at night gives the product a chance to work while you sleep.
- Wear clean clothes. Change your clothes every day especially when you sweat heavily. This will help you keep body odor down. Also, ensure to change your socks if you have tendencies of having smelly feet. Use deodorant powder. This will save you from developing other problems like athlete’s foot and other unwanted skin diseases.
- Opt for baking soda. Baking soda works also as odor neutralizer. Applying a small amount of it on your underarm will help in sweat reduction. You can also mix it with cornstarch for better sweat absorption.
- Watch what you eat. What you eat affects your body odor. Indulge less on spices such as hot peppers, and other spicy meals, as well as strong –smelling foods like garlic and onion. These types of food may contribute to your body odor. Also, cut down on drinking caffeinated beverages and alcoholic drinks. These drinks may also cause you to perspire more.
- Shave your underarm regularly. Regular shaving of your underarm is a helpful solution in preventing the accumulation of bacteria as well as reducing sweat and foul smell.
- Avoid using or borrowing personal things (towels, shoes, socks, etc.) from others. This tip is for your personal protection.
For those who are fond of working out, we know that sweating is inevitable. Therefore, you have to take extra measures to keep yourself odor-free. After working out, do not let your used workout clothes stay inside your gym bag. Wash them immediately with care to avoid bacteria from hiding.
To avert foot odor, towel dry your feet before wearing your shoes. Be sure to wear cotton-made socks and breathable shoes to prevent development of athlete’s foot. If you have acquired athlete’s foot, over-the-counter medications and anti-fungal treatments can relieve your condition.
For those who are suffering from excessive sweating known as hyperhidrosis, consult your doctor. There are treatment options to alleviate your condition.
Nevertheless, observing proper hygiene is the ultimate solution for your body smell problems. With utmost care and proper guidance, you will smell better than before. Likewise, smelling fresh every single day, will regain your confidence.
