BODY ODOR?
YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH IT!
Relax, it’s not only you. It happens!
Body odor is the perceived unpleasant smell our bodies can give off when bacteria that live on the skin break down sweat into acids.Sweat itself is virtually odorless to humans. It is the rapid multiplication of bacteria in the presence of sweat and their breaking down of sweat into acids that eventually causes the unpleasant smell.
People who are obese, those who regularly eat spicy foods, as well as individuals with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, are more susceptible to having body odor. People who sweat too much, such as those with hyperhidrosis, may also be susceptible to body odor.
Just because it is normal to sweat, does not mean that it is OK to have body odor. It just means that you need to be more responsible about your personal hygiene. Unless you have a medical condition, in which case you need to seek out professional help.
Body odor is most likely to occur in the following places:
- Feet
- Groin
- Armpits
- Genitals
- Pubic hair and other hair
- Belly button
- Anus
- Behind the ears
- The rest of the skin, to a lesser extent
This is what you can do to tackle it…
Regular Showers – Take at least two showers a day, one in the morning when you wake up and one in the evening. It is also imperative to take a shower right after physical activity which induces sweat such as exercise. If you do not do that, you may develop skin irritation or fungus, which will only increase your body odor.
Deodorize –Eating a well-balanced diet and drinking plenty of water will naturally cut down body odor but you may still need to use deodorants. It is best not to purchase commercial deodorants. Most deodorants contain toxic substances like parabens, aluminum compounds, silica, talc—some of which can cause cancer.
It’s not worth taking risks with your health. Avoid using commercial deodorants, instead use an all-natural deodorant. You can make your own and it’s really very simple.
Natural Alternative
- Baking soda is an excellent deodorant. Put some under your arms before you head out and it should take care of you for the rest of the day. If you tend to sweat a lot, carry some with you in a small container and apply when needed. Works like a charm!
- Lemon and baking soda. Cut half a lemon, dip it in some baking soda and rub it under your arms. Store the lemon in a baggy in the refrigerator until you have used it all.
Tip: Put your name on it so no one will use it as salad dressing! - Milk of Magnesia works great. Just dip a cotton ball in it and apply it under your arms (or even around your groin area) to keep the sweat and odor off.
This is how you can make your own deodorant right out of your pantry…
Ingredients
1/3 cup baking soda
1/3 cup corn starch
5 tablespoon coconut oil (leave it in the fridge for a bit beforehand so it is solid)
Method
Mix in a bowl and voila! You can add a few drops of essential oils for smell and store your deodorant in a small container in the refrigerator.
Yes, you put in the additional work but at least you know what you are putting on your body. And don’t forget the cost effectiveness!