Body odour (BO)
Body odour is a common problem. You can usually treat it yourself.
How to treat body odour yourself
Do
wash your armpits, groin and feet at least twice a day with soap and dry thoroughly
shave your armpits regularly
use antiperspirants and deodorants
change and wash your clothes regularly
wear natural fabrics like cotton, wool and silk
wear antibacterial socks
Don't
do not eat too much strong smelling or spicy food
do not drink too much coffee or alcohol
A pharmacist can help with body odour
You can ask a pharmacist about:
- stronger antiperspirants
- armpit or sweat shields to protect your clothing
- foot powders for sweaty feet
- soap substitutes that are gentler on your skin
See a GP if:
You have body odour that has not got better after treating it yourself and:
- it's affecting your self-esteem
- you notice a change in how it usually smells
- you suddenly begin to sweat much more than usual
Treatments from a GP
If you have severe body odour and sweating, a GP may suggest:
- stronger, prescription antiperspirants
- injections in your armpits to reduce the amount of sweat
- surgery to remove the sweat glands
Read more about treating excessive sweating.
Causes of body odour
Things that can make body odour worse include:
- exercise
- hot weather
- hormonal changes
- being overweight
- having a condition like diabetes, kidney disease or liver disease
- certain types of medicine, such as antidepressants
Body odour may also be linked to excessive sweating and smelly feet.
Last Reviewed
04 February 2022
04 February 2022
