What does sweat protect in the body?
All of us sweat, or perspire. It is one of the ways that the body regulates temperature and gets rid of waste products from the body, apart from the more obvious methods of body waste removal, such as bowel motions and urine.
There are two types of sweat glands: eccrine glands which are all over the body and help to maintain normal body temperature by producing odourless perspiration, and apocrine glands that are in hairy areas, such as the armpits and groin.
The apocrine glands start producing sweat at puberty, with the arrival of pubic hair, and produce sweat that contain proteins which cause bad smelling substances when broken down, resulting in odours that can become offensive. Apocrine sweat also contains pheromones that are reputed to cause attraction between people.
Preventing body odour
Anyone can get body odour, but men often sweat more than women, so are more likely to have body odour. However, being overweight and some medical conditions, such as diabetes, may also cause people to be more likely to develop body odour.
Foods like garlic, as well as alcohol, can also be excreted or removed from the body via sweat and produce odours. Anything that makes you more likely to perspire may worsen body odour. Some of us sweat more when stressed, or nervous.
To prevent or treat body odour, the sweat and bacteria on the skin needs to be removed by washing. You do not usually need to use special products – ordinary soap and water is usually effective in removing odour causing bacteria. If concerned then you may wash hairy areas twice a day, but a daily shower or bath is usually sufficient.
Treating body odour
It is important to change and wash clothing that may have been in contact with the skin as this will also lessen any odour. Wear socks and change them daily to remove any sweat from affecting your footwear, and air any clothing in the sun or warm dry areas if it cannot be washed or dry cleaned regularly.
Using antiperspirants will reduce perspiration, whereas deodorants mask any smells that you may produce in the areas it has been applied. In extreme cases of sweating, surgery is an option to remove some sweat glands, or botulinum toxin (Botox) is another option for extreme hyperhidrosis.
If concerned about body odour or excessive perspiration, talk to your community pharmacist. They can advise you about the correct products to use to reduce or prevent perspiration, as well as suitable anti-bacterial skin washes if needed to reduce bacteria on the skin. Your pharmacist can also advise you if you need to see a doctor about a possible medical cause for your body odour, or if further treatment could be an option for you.
BODY ODOUR PRODUCTS
Dior Sauvage Deodorant Stick 75G
Life Pharmacy Orewa
A fresh and subtly scented formula for long-lasting protection that is soft on skin. A fragrance that refreshed. Be armed for every situation. Top notes: Pepper, Bergamotte. Heart notes: Geranium, ...
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Clarins Gentle Care Rollon Deodorant
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This delicately scented alcohol-free deodorant is formulated with extracts of buchu leaf, witch hazel, and rosemary. It aids in regulating transpiration, leaving you with a pleasant fresh, dry feel...
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Ego Qv Naked Deodorant Rollon 80 G
Life Pharmacy Orewa
QV Naked Deodorant is aluminium free for sensitive skin. Kind to sensitive skin but powerful on protection, QV's aluminium free deodorant is formulated using Revlonolutionary Biosorb Crystals. Thes...
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Dior Miss Dior Deodorant Spray 100Ml
Life Pharmacy Orewa
This deodorant provides long-lasting protection and refreshing feeling all day. Blended with rose extract, its mild formula helps preserve skin health. Each application refreshes the skin and ampli...
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Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Deodorant Sport 60Ml
Life Pharmacy Orewa
Tea Tree Deodorant Sport is made using 100% pure Australia grown Tea Tree Oil, helping to fight body odour during physical exertion, keeping you fresh, dry and confident.¶Size60mLDirectionsUse libe...
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Life Pharmacy Orewa
You'll exude confidence even under pressure when you use J'adore deodorant spray for women. Designed by Christian Dior, this delicate deodorant spray has a hint of fragrance that combines the notes...
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Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Deodorant
Life Pharmacy Orewa
Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Deodorant is aluminium free and provides protection against odour causing bacteria to help keep you fresh and dry. Combines the antibacterial power of Tea Tree Oil wi...
Price $9.99
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