Bad-smelling sweat can be considered a social, aesthetic and health problem. But is it possible to avoid it? Find out why it occurs and some tips to reduce the bad smell with sweat.
Sweat can become a serious problem for many people. It is usually associated with the fact that when a person sweats a lot they tend to be a little neat individual, when in reality it has nothing to do with it.
Why? For example, excessive sweating may be due to a problem called hyperhidrosis, a condition that causes a person to sweat excessively and unpredictably, and may sweat even when the temperature is cool or at rest. Its causes: possible existence of very active sweats glands; although in case of secondary hyperhidrosis it can be as a consequence of other disorders or diseases, such as glucose control disorders, hyperthyroidism, heart disease, menopause, Parkinson’s disease or cerebrovascular accidents.
Why does sweat smell bad?
It is often thought that sweat smells bad. But the truth is that it is not the sweat itself that smells bad; it is actually due to the colonization of bacteria on our skin that form when apocrine sweat is secreted.
Therefore, we must bear in mind from the outset that sweat is odorless, unless certain medications have been taken (such as some antibiotics or psychotropic drugs), or foods such as garlic that can alter its smell.
In reference to the composition of sweat, it is mainly composed of water and mineral salts, as well as other substances.
Sweating is not bad, since thanks to it our skin becomes moist, evaporates and also helps to lower our temperature.
Tips against sweat and odor
- Use deodorants and antiperspirants: they help reduce bad odor and cover up perspiration with their perfume. If you have a strong odor, you should try several deodorants until you find the most suitable one. In addition, it is recommended that you change the product from time to time to increase its effectiveness.
- Use liquid soap with chlorhexidine: just as it is advisable to wash well with soap those areas that sweat more, it is recommended to use liquid soap with chlorhexidine.
- If you wear closed shoes, use anti-odor insoles and suitable socks: although it is best to let the foot breathe, if, for example, it is autumn or winter and you must wear closed shoes, the best option is to use anti-odor insoles and anti-sweat socks. They are ideal because they absorb moisture from the feet.
