Now that Spring is Here Watch Out for Body Odor

As spring fades into summer and temperatures continue to rise, Bromhidrosis also known as body odor affects us all. Many ask, "What is the culprit?" Simply stated, bacteria causes body odor. Body odor may occur at any time during the year, however, it is more prevalent during the spring and summer months due to the heat. It is natural for the body to sweat with increased exposure to extreme temperatures. Sweating is a natural cooling function of the body used to regulate its increasing temperature.

Many things like exercise, weather conditions, even spurts of adrenaline due to excitement increase the body's temperature. When you consider your warm weather activities, many occur outside when the sun is at its peak and temperatures are at their highest. Many activities are physical in nature requiring a great deal of exertion, while others occur in crowds where the sheer numbers generate heat. Once the body begins to overheat, sweating is inevitable.

Sweating in and of itself is not the problem - sweat is odorless. It is the combination of heat and moisture that become the breeding ground for bacteria. The bacteria multiplies rapidly thus producing the unpleasant smell known as body odor. So what do can you do?

Bathe Regularly.

During the spring and summer, months you may need to change your bathing routine. Unfortunately, showering once a day may not be enough. If your lifestyle is active and exposure to the elements (sun and heat) is extensive, you may need to shower twice a day - both morning and night to remove the excess sweat and bacteria from your body. If you also have an exercise routine (a sedentary lifestyle is an unhealthy lifestyle) you may need to shower even more frequently depending upon your schedule.

Determine the right products for your body.

Consider using an antibacterial soap when bathing. There are many to choose from, however, Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Soap is an option. Regrettably, antibacterial products tend to have a drying effect on the skin. You may need to add a moisturizing product to your daily routine to re-hydrate the skin.

Knowing your body is very critical. This is fundamental when choosing an antiperspirant or deodorant. These products are not the same. Deodorants are substances applied to the armpits, to reduce the odor caused by the bacterial breakdown of perspiration. A subgroup of deodorants is antiperspirants, which prevent odor and reduce sweat produced by the armpits. (See Wikipedia, Deodorant, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deodorant)

Adidas makes deodorant products for men and women. Aluminum free deodorants use alcohol to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fragrances to mask any unbidden smells that may develop. There are also natural products like the Crystal Stick Body Deodorant. Made with natural mineral salts the Crystal Stick is completely free of perfumes and chemicals.

In addition to purpose, another key difference between deodorants and antiperspirants is ingredients. Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly and Aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly, are the most widely used in antiperspirants. (See Wikipedia, Deodorant, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deodorant) These products work with the body to stop sweating thus reducing the moisture needed for bacteria to grow and multiply.

Mitchum, a popular brand, make products for men and women. Mitchum contains both an antiperspirant and deodorant for maximum effectiveness. Secret and Secret Platinum is another antiperspirant and deodorant brand made especially for women.

Seek medical attention.

If you have taken the precautions listed above and you still suffer from significant body odor, you may want to seek medical attention. Some individuals may require additional assistance eliminating body odor. There are instances when diet or even certain medical conditions like constipation may be the root cause for body odor. In these extreme cases a trip your primary care physician, not the local pharmacy may be in order to receive a proper diagnosis.

Do not allow the threat of body odor to force you to stay indoors. While the experience may be embarrassing, there are ways to prevent you from being the next Bromhidrosis victim.