Best Home Remedies for Smelly Armpits

Introduction

Nobody likes unpleasant body odour, especially from the armpits! It can be embarrassing and often caused by the interaction of sweat and bacteria on our skin. Before we dive into remedies, let’s understand why underarm smell occurs.

Friendly Reminder: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a registered medical practitioner before making changes to your health routine.

What Causes Smelly Armpits?

When we sweat, the fat, salt, and water in sweat mix with bacteria on the skin, leading to odour. Several factors increase susceptibility:

• Genetic predisposition
• Stress or anxiety
• Hot weather or exercise
• Excess weight
• Underarm hair trapping sweat & bacteria
• Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)
• Medical conditions such as diabetes, liver/kidney disease, thyroid disorders
• Foods like onions, garlic, cabbage, red meat, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods

Home Remedies for Smelly Armpits

Try these simple natural remedies to tackle underarm odour:

1. Green Tea: Cool soaked tea bags & apply underarms to reduce sweat and odour.
2. Lemon Juice: Citric acid kills bacteria; apply diluted lemon juice with a spray or cotton ball.
3. Baking Soda: Balances skin pH; apply a thin paste, allow to dry, rinse off.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar: Dilute & apply with cotton or spray—its acidity fights bacteria.
5. Turmeric Paste: Natural antibacterial; apply, leave for 10 min, rinse well.
6. Antibacterial Soap: Helps lower bacterial count; scrub underarms daily.
7. Wear Breathable Clothing: Opt for loose cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics.
8. Lifestyle Changes: Trim/shave armpit hair, avoid odour-triggering foods like garlic, onions, caffeine & alcohol.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Consult a doctor if you notice:

• Excessive night sweating or damp skin constantly
• Sudden change in body odour (fruity or bleach-like smell)
• Heavy sweating interfering with daily activities
• Recurring infections in sweaty areas

Conclusion

Natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda can freshen you up, but persistent odour or excessive sweating requires medical advice. If over-the-counter and home measures fail, consult a dermatologist—treatments like antiperspirants or Botox may help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can shaving armpits reduce odour?
A: Yes, it reduces the surface area for bacteria to thrive.

Q2: Are these remedies safe for sensitive skin?
A: Patch-test first; discontinue if irritation occurs.