Severe body odour is more than just an embarrassing inconvenience—it’s a real issue that can affect confidence, social interactions, and overall well-being. If you’ve tried every deodorant on the market and still find yourself battling an unbearable stench by midday, you’re not alone. The truth is, most traditional solutions focus on masking odour rather than addressing the root cause. But don’t worry—I’m here to break it all down, from the hacks that work to the ones that absolutely don’t.
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What Causes Severe Body Odour?
Sweat itself isn’t the villain here—it’s actually odourless. The problem arises when sweat meets bacteria on the skin, creating an environment ripe for pungent smells. Other contributing factors include diet, stress, hormonal imbalances, and even genetics. Now, let’s dive into the solutions, separating the scientifically backed methods from the myths.
Proven Ways to Manage Severe Body Odour
1. Daily Hygiene: The Foundation of Odour Control
- Shower at least once a day using an antibacterial soap.
- Thoroughly dry yourself, especially in sweat-prone areas, to prevent bacterial growth.
- Shaving or trimming underarm and groin hair can help reduce bacterial buildup.
- Wash feet daily, dry thoroughly, and change socks regularly. Use deodorant powders in shoes and consider going barefoot when possible to reduce moisture buildup.
2. The Right Deodorant for You
Most antiperspirants use aluminium salts to block sweat glands. While this may reduce wetness, it doesn’t solve body odour at its core. That’s where a cutting-edge product like Nelli Neutralizer Anti-Odor Serum comes in. This revolutionary aluminium-free formula allows natural sweating while actively neutralizing odour. It’s designed to last all day, even through extreme heat, high humidity, or intense workouts—perfect for those with hyperhidrosis.
3. The Science-Backed Power of Acids for Odour Control
Did you know that skincare acids aren’t just for your face? The powerful combination of acids in Nelli Neutralizer Anti-Odor Serum works synergistically to combat odour at its source:
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Glycolic Acid – Known for its exfoliating properties and ability to lower skin pH, glycolic acid disrupts bacterial growth, making it a key ingredient in odour control. This is supported by scientific research on its skincare benefits.
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Lactic Acid – Helps maintain skin hydration while gently exfoliating dead cells, ensuring a smoother and fresher underarm area. Its effectiveness is backed by this study on its dermatological effects.
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Mandelic Acid – A mild yet potent antibacterial agent derived from almonds, mandelic acid effectively reduces odour-causing bacteria while remaining gentle on sensitive skin, as shown in this research on its antimicrobial properties.
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Salicylic Acid – Renowned for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties, salicylic acid also helps unclog pores and eliminate odour-causing bacteria, as demonstrated in this clinical study.
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Gluconolactone – A polyhydroxy acid that provides gentle exfoliation while reinforcing the skin’s moisture barrier, contributing to long-lasting odour protection. Its skincare benefits are detailed in this study on its role in dermatology.
Together, these ingredients create a cutting-edge solution for those struggling with severe body odour, delivering long-lasting freshness without blocking sweat glands.
4. Smart Clothing Choices
- Wear breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials.
- Avoid tight synthetic clothing that traps heat and encourages bacterial growth.
- Change clothes frequently, especially after sweating.
5. Diet Adjustments That Actually Work
Certain foods contribute to body odour—cutting them down can make a difference. Try to:
- Reduce your intake of garlic, onions, spicy foods, and alcohol.
- Stay hydrated to flush out toxins.
- Increase chlorophyll-rich foods like leafy greens to neutralize internal odour.
6. Stress and Its Link to Severe Body Odour
Stress sweat is different from regular sweat—it comes from the apocrine glands and is packed with proteins that bacteria love. Managing stress through meditation, exercise, or deep breathing can significantly reduce stress-induced odour.
Engage in activities like yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises to manage stress, which can trigger increased sweating.
7. Other Unusual (But Effective) Hacks
- Witch hazel: Acts as a natural astringent, lowering pH and reducing bacteria.
- Green tea bags: Applying cooled, used green tea bags may help reduce sweating by potentially blocking pores.
- Hand sanitizer: Can work in emergencies to kill bacteria on the go.
- Milk of magnesia: Some people swear by dabbing it underarms as an odour-neutralizing agent.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Diluted with water, it can help kill odour-causing bacteria.
- Chlorophyll supplements: Internal deodorizer that helps neutralize odour from within.
- Probiotics: Maintaining gut health can reduce excessive body odour.
- Botox injections: Temporarily reduces excessive sweating for months.
- Activated charcoal soap: Absorbs toxins and helps reduce odour.
- Antibacterial creams: Applying antibacterial creams containing clindamycin or erythromycin may help control odor by reducing bacteria.
Unconventional or Less Effective Methods:
1. Glycolic Acid Alone as a Deodorant
Some people claim glycolic acid alone works as a natural deodorant, but using it solo can lead to irritation and doesn’t offer the long-lasting protection that a properly formulated product like Nelli Neutralizer Anti-Odor Serum provides.
2. Lemon Juice on the Underarms
Lemon juice may temporarily lower skin pH, but it can cause severe irritation, especially after shaving.
3. Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is highly alkaline and can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to irritation, rashes, and even worse odour over time.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar Sprays
While it has antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar can’t neutralize odour all day, and let’s be honest—it doesn’t exactly smell great either.
5. Essential Oils as a Standalone Solution
They might smell nice, but essential oils don’t prevent bacterial growth or reduce sweating effectively. Some people may find that essential oils cause irritation or allergic reactions.
6. Crystal Deodorants
Despite being marketed as a natural alternative, crystal deodorants often contain aluminium compounds and don’t effectively combat odour. These products contain natural mineral salts and are marketed as a natural alternative to conventional deodorants. While some users report positive results, scientific evidence on their efficacy is limited.
7. Rubbing Alcohol
While it may kill bacteria temporarily, rubbing alcohol can dry out and irritate the skin, making odour worse in the long run.
The Best Long-Term Solution for Severe Body Odour
If you’re tired of ineffective DIY hacks and aluminium-laden antiperspirants that don’t address the root cause of odour, it’s time for a game-changer. Nelli Neutralizer Anti-Odor Serum is truly the longest-lasting deodorant you’ll ever find. This advanced formula works in harmony with your body, neutralizing odour while allowing natural sweating, making it the best option for those dealing with severe body odour.
Say goodbye to embarrassing odour and hello to all-day confidence—science has got your back!
