During puberty, sweat glands, including those in the armpit area, become more active making a person sweat and possibly smell more. Although anyone can have strong body smells at times, the hormones released during puberty seem to wake up these smells, especially in the armpit, feet, and genital areas.
Tips for handling body odor
- Remember that sweating is a natural part of being a person. Sweating helps regulate body temperature, especially when we exercise.
- Wash your body parts regularly with soap and warm water, including your feet, armpit, and genital areas.
- Consider washing your armpits or bathe more often, especially after exercise or playing sports.
- Products that help minimize or mitigate armpit odor include deodorant, antiperspirant, or home remedies.
- Deodorants are usually pleasant-smelling products that are made to cover up unpleasant smells.
- Some deodorants contain antiperspirants, which contain chemicals to help a person stop sweating.
- If you choose to use a product in your underarm area, test it on your forearm for 48 hours first. Doing this will make you sure that your body is okay with the product and you are not allergic to it.
- Home remedies are natural products that include ingredients sometimes found in a person’s home, like lemon juice. To explore homemade deodorant recipes, check out Tree Hugger.
For more information on tips on managing body odor, visit BLOOM’s Healthy Body page.
