We’ve all been there — deep into the workday when we catch an unexpected waft of not-so-freshness, a reminder that we’re only human. Body odor is a universal experience, yet many people don’t fully understand what causes it or how to prevent it, beyond the usual swipe of underarm deodorant. We got the lowdown on sweat and body odor from an expert — one of the scientists continuing to innovate Secret Whole Body Deodorant.
One of the biggest myths about body odor? That sweat itself smells. “Sweat is actually odorless,” says Maiysha Jones, PhD, principal scientist at Secret. “Body odor only occurs when sweat interacts with the bacteria naturally present on our skin. When bacteria break down the components in sweat, they release gas — what I sometimes call ‘bacteria farts’— and that’s what we smell as body odor.”
Another common misconception? That odor only comes from the underarms. “Body odor can occur anywhere sweat and bacteria mix,” explains Dr. Jones. “Basically, anywhere that’s warm, moist, and enclosed is a perfect place for bacteria to thrive,” she explains.
So what’s the best way to manage odor and stay fresh all day? From the science of sweating to whole-body deodorant solutions, here’s everything you need to know.
Why does body odor happen?
If sweat isn’t the problem, then what’s really going on when you notice an unwanted scent? It’s all about bacteria.
“Our skin has naturally-occurring bacteria, which play an essential role in keeping us healthy,” says Dr. Jones. “There are good and bad bacteria, and then there’s odor-causing bacteria. When sweat provides the right conditions, these bacteria thrive, breaking down sweat’s components and producing odor.”
Sweat itself is just water, salt, and a few other compounds — totally odorless on its own. But when it lingers in warm, enclosed areas, bacteria go to work digesting proteins and lipids in sweat, releasing smelly byproducts.
“Just like when we eat food and later release gas, bacteria do the same thing when they break down sweat,” says Dr. Jones. “That’s what leads to body odor.”
Surprising places body odor can develop
While we’re all familiar with underarm odor, Dr. Jones notes that bacteria love a variety of other hiding spots:
- Groin area: Tight clothing and layers (hello, workout leggings) create a warm, humid environment.
- Feet (especially between the toes): If you’ve ever peeled off sweaty socks and caught an unpleasant whiff, you know the struggle.
- Under the breasts: Sweat can get trapped in skin folds, making it a perfect breeding ground for odor-causing agents.
“In many cases, people don’t realize they have odor in these areas until it’s pointed out to them, or until they get a sniff of it themselves,” says Dr. Jones.
How do diet, stress, and hormones affect body odor?
You are what you eat, and apparently, you also smell like it. “Foods like garlic, onions, and even spicy dishes can make sweat smell stronger,” explains Dr. Jones. “That’s because compounds from these foods can seep out through sweat glands.”
Other factors also come into play:
- Stress sweat smells worse: “When you’re stressed, your body produces a different type of sweat that’s richer in proteins and lipids, which bacteria on our skin love to eat,” says Dr. Jones. “That’s why stress sweat tends to have a stronger odor than the sweat you produce when you’re just hot or active.”
- Hormonal shifts matter: Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can all influence sweat gland activity. “Hormonal changes impact the bacterial balance on your skin, which can make body odor more noticeable,” says Dr. Jones.
If you’re going through perimenopause or menopause, you might also notice an increase in sweating, or a change in how your body odor smells. “As we age, the bacterial balance on our skin changes, sometimes increasing the presence of odor-causing bacteria,” says Dr. Jones.
Can you smell yourself?
Ever wonder why you stop noticing your own body odor or even your favorite perfume after a while? That’s sensory adaptation at play.
“This is called ‘nose blindness,’” explains Dr. Jones. “Just like how you stop noticing a familiar candle scent in your home, your nose adapts to your own body odor — until something changes.” So if you’ve ever worried, Do I smell and just not know it?, the answer is: possibly.
Why you should try a whole-body deodorant
Most people stick to underarm deodorant, but body odor isn’t limited to just one area. “Our research found that many people were concerned about odor in areas beyond the underarms but didn’t have a solution,” says Dr. Jones. “People resorted to taking multiple showers, changing clothes frequently, or using wipes throughout the day.” A more effective, long-lasting solution? Whole-body deodorant.
Unlike traditional antiperspirants, which use aluminum to block sweat, whole-body deodorants focus on odor control without restricting natural perspiration.
“What most people call deodorants are often antiperspirants, meaning they contain aluminum to reduce sweat,” explains Dr. Jones. “However, the FDA only approves aluminum-based antiperspirants for underarm use. Whole-body deodorants, on the other hand, are aluminum-free and specifically designed for use all over the body.”
Secret’s Whole-Body Deodorant Collection includes spray, stick, and cream formats, offering flexible options to stay fresh wherever you need it.
Simple daily habits to stay fresh all day
Want to keep body odor in check? Dr. Jones recommends a few simple habits:
- Shower regularly: This washes away bacteria buildup, which is key to preventing odor.
- Dry off completely: Bacteria thrive in moisture, so make sure to thoroughly dry skin folds.
- Use a whole-body deodorant like Secret: A whole-body deodorant can help fight odor-causing bacteria in areas beyond just your underarms.
- Stay hydrated: Hydration helps regulate body temperature and can prevent excessive sweating, according to Dr. Jones.
- Use an antiperspirant, if needed: If excessive sweating is a concern, an antiperspirant can help reduce moisture.
By understanding what really causes body odor and choosing the right products, you can stay fresh all day — without worrying about needing sniff checks.
