Deodourising Tutorial for Summer Days Vol.2 - Body Odour

When summer hits Hong Kong, the heat can be intense, with temperatures soaring up to 37℃. It's no surprise that we all tend to sweat a lot in such weather. But have you ever noticed how some people's sweat doesn't have a strong odour while others' can be quite pungent? In this article, we'll delve into the science behind body odour and share some tips on how to combat it.

What Causes Body Odour?

Sweat does not smell on its own, but when the proteins in our sweat react with the bacteria on the surface of our skin, the reaction produces amino acids and fatty acids which can create a less-than-pleasant scent.

But did you know that your diet can also impact body odour? If you frequently consume strong-tasting foods like garlic, onions, curry and chili, or red meat, they'll be released as an odour when your body metabolizes them through sweating and urination, which can make your body odour worse.

And it's not just diet that can have an impact. If you're a regular drinker, be aware that alcohol is not only excreted through urine but also through sweat, so it’s not just alcohol breath that’s driving people away, but also the alcohol smell which is released through pores! When combined with sweat, this can create a strong and unpleasant body odour.

Remember, while body odour can be uncomfortable, it's a common issue that can be easily managed with the right approach. We will guide you through the steps you can take to improve your body odour and regain your confidence this summer. Don't let it keep you from enjoying your summer activities!

6 Methods to Help You Get Rid of BO

1. Wash your clothes frequently

If you sweat a lot or work outdoors in the summer, it's a good idea to bring an extra change of clothes. Before changing into clean clothes, make sure to wipe away any sweat on your body to prevent the new clothes from immediately absorbing the sweat, which could soon give your new clothes the same unpleasant odour. This simple step can make a big difference!

What about clothes that have already been taken off and are soaked with sweat? It's best to let them air dry before storing them in a plastic bag. If you leave wet clothes in a sealed plastic bag, the moisture in the enclosed environment would speed up bacteria multiplication. Thus the smell may even develop into a stronger one! If air drying your clothes isn’t possible, be sure to wash them immediately when you get home to prevent the sweat odour from becoming hard to wash away.

Remember, by taking a few simple steps, you can effectively reduce sweat odour and keep your clothes smelling fresh all summer long!

We have written another article about eliminating odour on clothes, with detailed laundry tips targeting sweat odour and sweat marks!

Full article: Deodourising Tutorial for Summer Days Vol.1 - Smelly Clothes

2. Switch to Antibacterial Shower Gel

Say goodbye to body odor with a simple yet effective solution - antibacterial shower gel! It's no secret that bacteria on our bodies are the culprits behind that unpleasant smell, especially during the scorching summer when we tend to sweat profusely. But worry not, because using an antibacterial shower gel can put a stop to bacterial growth. Not only does it fight odor-causing bacteria, but it also leaves you with a long-lasting, refreshing fragrance.

With one shower a day (or more if it is convenient for you), you can significantly reduce body odor caused by bacteria. And if your BO is mild, this method is not only effective but also incredibly convenient. Try an antibacterial shower gel today and say hello to a fresher, cleaner you!

3. Change Your Eating Habit

Earlier it was mentioned that a heavy taste in food and consuming large amounts of meat can worsen body odor, and conversely, we can start by adjusting our diet to alleviate body odor problems!

Say Bye to Fried and Spicy Food

If you want to smell fresh and clean, steer clear of oily and spicy dishes! These types of food would increase the oily content in your sweat and contribute to nasty body odor. From the traditional Chinese medicinal perspective, people who often consume these foods also tend to feel hotter, which results in heavier sweating.

Spice is not Always Nice

While spices can add flavor and kick to your meals, they can also linger in your body for days and make your body odor worse! So, if you're prone to BO, avoid foods that pack a punch, such as spicy hot pot and curry.

Don't Stink Like Onions and Garlic

As much as we love these tasty seasonings, they contain sulfuric acid that can change the smell of your sweat and even your breath! If you want to avoid smelling like a walking onion or garlic, cut back on these ingredients. It's tough to avoid them completely, but reducing your intake can make a big difference.

Eat Less Red Meat

If you're a meat lover, you might be adding to your body odor problem! The amino acid in meat will be broken down to excessive urea during digestion, which makes your sweat and urine smell worse. Red meat is the biggest culprit, so try to eat more white meat or reduce your overall meat intake.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water is not only good for your overall health, but it can also help reduce body odor! Water helps flush out toxins through urination and boosts your metabolism, which makes you smell better. Drink up and stay hydrated!

Chill out with Cooling Foods

If you're prone to sweating a lot, especially during the hot summer months, try eating more cooling foods like watermelon, cucumber, mung beans, and grass jelly. These foods can help reduce sweating and body heat, which can lead to less body odor.

Fight Bacteria with Fruits that are High in Enzyme

Fruits like apples, pineapples, papayas, and lemons contain natural enzymes that can inhibit bacterial growth and keep you smelling fresh. Snack on some fruit and say goodbye to BO!

4. Remove Underarm Hair

You might not realise it, but dense underarm hair can trap sweat and create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to that embarrassing BO. But here’s an easy tip - Removing your underarm hair can effectively reduce sweat and minimize unpleasant smells. Plus, it allows for antiperspirants to work their magic directly on the skin, leaving you feeling fresh and confident all day long.

For those who prefer to keep some hair, regular trimming can also do the trick.

5. Choose the Right Material for Your Clothing

Before you hit the gym or go out in the sun for outdoor activities, make sure you're paying attention to the material of your clothing. While polyester fibres may be thinner and more breathable, they can also trap sweat and the nasty bacteria that comes along with it, leading to some serious odor issues.

Opt for clothing that adopts antibacterial and/or anti-odor technologies. Not only will this help keep you smelling fresh, but it'll also keep you feeling cool and comfortable during your workout. And don't forget to practice good laundry habits, as even the best clothing can only do so much if it's not properly cared for.

6. Use Antiperspirant

While the above-mentioned methods may require lifestyle changes and take some time to see results, using antiperspirant is a simple and straightforward way to combat mild body odor.

But before you go dousing yourself in antiperspirant, it's important to know how to use it correctly. Many people make the mistake of using antiperspirant solely to mask the odor of their sweat, but that's not actually what it's designed for - The real purpose of antiperspirant is to reduce sweating, so as to prevent odor from developing in the first place.

So, how do you use antiperspirant correctly? First things first - make sure your underarms are dried after showering before application. After application, have a good night’s sleep. This gives it time to work and will significantly reduce sweating the next day. And don't worry about having to reapply throughout the day - most antiperspirants on the market can maintain their effectiveness for at least 24 hours. It's easy, effective, and will keep you feeling fresh all day long.

Spot On Recommendations

Lynx Shower Gel

The UK men’s toiletries brand Lynx is renowned for their products’ wide range of fragrances. Their shower gels are anti-bacterial, plus a long-lasting fragrance that lasts up to 12 hours, making you the freshest smelling guy in the room!

Lynx shower gels are added with plant-based probiotics and 5x moisturisers, with 92% of the ingredients from natural origin. Dermatologically tested, they will be a safe and effective solution to BO!

The brand has different fragrance blends for men of different styles - You’ll find your favourite! Lynx antiperspirants and body sprays are also available at Spot On, grab yours now!

L'Oréal Paris Men Expert Thermic Resist Deodorant

L'Oréal Paris Men Expert Thermic Resist Deodorant is effective even at 45°C and it lasts up to 48 hours! This XXL size is 300ml in volume, which suffices to keep you dry and fresh all summer!

Made in France, this fragrance of this deodorant will be a great boost to your maturity and masculinity.

Check out more men’s deodorant here: Men’s Toiletries - Deodorant

Sure Cotton Dry Roll on Deodorant

Ladies, here’s a solution for you if you are troubled by BO. Sure Cotton Dry Roll On Deodorant gives a fragrance of freshly washed linen, which makes you smell nice so naturally that no one knows it’s your deodorant!

Sure deodorant gives a long lasting effect of up to 48 hours. Being ethyl alcohol free, it is non-irritant and suitable for all skin types!

By taking the above measurements and choosing the right products, body odour would be greatly improved and confidence regained! Enjoy your odourless summer and let your charisma shine!

Read More:

Deodourising Tutorial for Summer Days Vol.1 - Smelly Clothes

Deodourising Tutorial for Summer Days Vol.3 - Household Odour

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