Embarrassing Summer Body Odor—Gone. These Doctor-Backed Remedies Work in Minutes
Whether you're dealing with underarm odor, funky feet or anything in between, we've got you covered
Key Takeaways
- Body odor is often caused by bacteria breaking down sweat—not sweat itself.
- Simple fixes like antibacterial washes and glycolic acid can reduce body odor fast.
- Persistent body odor may sometimes signal a serious underlying health condition.
Hot days and time spent outdoors (hello, excessive sweating!) can lead to a common annoyance—stubborn body odor. “Sweat [itself] can be odorless, but it creates a moist environment where bacteria and fungus can grow, causing odor,” says Maureen Theresa Butler, M.D., physician at Northwestern Medicine. If you find your usual shower-and-deodorant combo doesn’t quite cut it this time of year, it may be time to adjust your personal care routine. Here, we reveal how to get rid of body odor fast, no matter what type you’re dealing with.
All-over body odor?
One of the biggest culprits behind body odor isn’t sweat—it’s the bacteria on your skin that breaks down sweat, producing an unpleasant odor. “An antibacterial soap helps remove bacteria that contribute to odor,” Dr. Butler says. One to try: Dove Antibacterial Body Wash.
Another approach? Opting for a gentle body wash that balances your body’s pH, which can affect body odor. Lume Acidified Body Wash has a low pH that helps prevent odor-causing bacteria from fueling, providing 24 hours of odor protection with every bath or shower.
Woman's World Answers
Underarm odor?
Dead skin cells act like a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Wiping clean armpits with glycolic acid pads exfoliates dead skin, reducing potential odor while also helping prevent hyperpigmentation that’s common on areas of the body that sweat frequently. “Shaving armpits can also help, since excess hair can increase the risk of sweating and odor,” Dr. Butler says.
Tip: For added protection against body odor, try swiping on deodorant before bed instead of in the morning, especially if you’re prone to night sweats. One option: Secret Clinical Sleep, Don’t Sweat It Antiperspirant/Deodorant.
Foot odor?
A foot bath can do more than soothe tired tootsies when you add a dose of tea. Studies have shown that tannins found in black tea serve as astringents, killing odor-causing bacteria. Boil two to four bags in a pint of water and add it to a cool foot bath to get the benefit. Dr. Butler says taking care to wash toenails as well as keeping them clipped also helps.
Bad breath?
Drinking plenty of H2O keeps your breath fresh. “If you have dry mouth, that tends to promote an environment for bacteria to grow,” Dr. Butler says. “Staying well-hydrated is important.” Aim to drink at least ½ to 1 oz. of water per pound of body weight to stay hydrated. That’s about nine to 18 cups for a 150-pound woman.
When body odor can be a red flag
Body odor can sometimes signal an underlying medical condition. Fruity or acetone odors can be a sneaky symptom of diabetes, while a musty or sulfur scent can point to liver issues. “If you have good hygiene and notice an odor that isn’t going away, talk to a doctor,” Dr. Butler says.
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