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Unpleasant body odour
Definition:
An unpleasant odour that primarily results from the chemical breakdown of sweat by commensal bacteria that colonise the skin. Bad breath, as well as smelly feet, a part of the body prone to bad smells just like the palms of the hands, the belly... equipped with eccrine glands that secrete a somewhat unique sweat, are the main body odour issues that affect individuals.
Internal and external causes:
The bacterial composition of the skin microflora (proportion and activity of Corynebacterium bacteria), genetics, hormonal changes (pregnancy, hormonal cycle, etc.), diet (garlic, onion, curry, etc.), certain diseases (trimethylaminuria, diabetes, respiratory diseases, certain types of cancer, diphtheria, tuberculosis, digestive system problems, kidney failure), bacterial or parasitic infection (cavities, abscesses, periodontitis, bacterial vaginosis, etc.), body hygiene practices, emotional state (stress), alcohol consumption, age, excessive sweating, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, presence of caseum (small white balls) in the tonsil crypts, certain medications (penicillin, etc.).
How to reduce or eliminate:
Altering one's diet; using a deodorant with antibacterial agents; appropriate antibiotic treatment; use of an antiseptic soap combined with an antibiotic cream containing clindamycin or erythromycin.
Preventative steps to take:
Maintaining good body, intimate and dental hygiene; drying oneself thoroughly after showering, especially between the toes; shaving or waxing the underarms; wearing cotton clothing; changing socks daily; using an antiperspirant/deodorant; adopting relaxation techniques (such as yoga, meditation...); washing clothes frequently; avoiding vaginal douching; refraining from shaving or waxing the intimate areas.