You might be in between an important work presentation or planning an after-work party with your friends, and suddenly a foul pungent odour hits you! Even though you might spray some Eu de cologne, smear some deodorant or douse yourself in perfume, it becomes really hard to mask the strong odour emanating from your body and it ruins your beauty game.
Also Read: How To Get Rid Of Body Odour: Try These Natural Home Remedies Right Now!
What Causes Smelly Armpits?
Contrary to the conventional notion, it's not the sweat that gives off the acrid odour. When a person perspires, the sweat glands (i.e., apocrine glands) secrete sweat which is high in fat, salt, water and proteins. It is the breeding bacteria that breaks down the proteins in the sweat into acids to give out the awful smell. In some people, chronic body odour is an underlying symptom of a health aberration and is medically termed bromhidrosis. Apart from this even hygiene, dietary components, certain health conditions, specific ongoing medications, food preferences and one’s genetic constitution determine the type of sweat exuding from the body.
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Although deodorants mask the armpit odour to a large extent, if you are wondering how to remove body odour permanently and prefer the au naturelle pathway, we have curated a list of home remedies to choose from, to move freely with confidence exuding a pleasant body odour.
Also Read: DIY Deodorant Bar: Invigorating Fragrances To Stave Off Body Odour
Here Are Some Incredible Home Remedies For Smelly Armpits
Apple Cider Vinegar
Imbued with potent anti-microbial properties, ACV is great for neutralizing the environment in the armpits and killing the odour-causing bacteria.
Baking Soda
This exceptional kitchen ingredient portraying anti-bacterial property is significant in arresting underarm smell by altering the pH of the underarm skin, thus absorbing sweat and keeping it dry. Baking soda also impedes bacterial growth and blocks the foul smell.
Essential Oils
Be it tea tree oil or lavender essential oil, the quarry of anti-bacterial and astringent properties in them are not only beneficial for minimizing underarm pores and destroying the odour-causing bacteria but also help in exuding an aromatic fragrance.
Lemon
Thanks to its acidic and potent anti-bacterial nature, the juice of lemon lowers the pH of the underarm skin while making it unfavourable for the breeding of bacteria, thus preventing their growth and any bad smell.
Aloe Vera Gel
Being a rich source of antioxidants and anti-microbial traits, not only does the colourless aloe gel flush out toxins from the body and diminish underarm odour but also arrests the growth of bacteria while giving a smooth, soft feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Naturally Kills Underarm Odour?
Natural ingredients that help kill underarm odour-causing bacteria include:
- Baking soda
- Apple cider vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Tea tree oil (antibacterial)
- Witch hazel
- Coconut oil (has mild antibacterial properties)
These help balance pH and reduce the bacteria that cause odour.
How To Stop Underarm Smell?
- Shower daily, especially after sweating
- Use an antibacterial soap
- Shave or trim underarm hair
- Apply natural deodorants or antiperspirants
- Wear breathable cotton clothes
- Stay hydrated and maintain hygiene
What Foods Get Rid Of Smelly Armpits?
Leafy greens like spinach, parsley are rich in chlorophyll, which helps to detox the system
Citrus fruits, such as lemons, oranges, are natural detoxifiers
Green tea is packed with antioxidants
Tomatoes are a natural astringent, and reduce sweat
Mint and herbs help to cleanse the body
Avoid: Garlic, onion, red meat, alcohol, spicy foods, and processed sugar.
Can Lemon Remove Armpit Smell?
Yes! Lemon has antibacterial and astringent properties that help kill odour-causing bacteria and lighten dark underarms. Simply rub a slice on your armpit or apply lemon juice using a cotton ball.
Can I Leave Lemon Juice On My Underarm Overnight?
Not recommended. Lemon juice is acidic and can irritate or burn your skin if left too long, especially overnight. Apply for 5–10 minutes and rinse off. Always do a patch test first.
How To Detox Underarms?
Use a mask of bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar
Exfoliate gently with a scrub containing sugar and coconut oil
Apply witch hazel or tea tree oil as a toner
Switch to natural deodorants
Stay well-hydrated and eat clean
It helps reset your armpits after long-term use of chemical deodorants.
(This article is reviewed by M Sowmya Binu, Food and Health Expert)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
Foray through this infographic to find five awesome DIY recipes to keep armpit smell at bay.
