Why Is Body Odor Getting Worse? Causes and Practical Solutions

Have you noticed your body odor becoming more noticeable lately? It can be frustrating, especially when you're diligent about hygiene. Body odor changes can happen for various reasons, and understanding them is critical to addressing the issue effectively. In this blog, we'll explore why body odor worsens and provide actionable solutions to keep it under control.

What Causes Body Odor?

Body odor is the result of sweat interacting with bacteria on the skin. While sweat is odorless, bacteria break it into compounds that produce unpleasant smells. Several factors contribute to body odor, and some might surprise you.

Hormonal Shifts Can Intensify Odor

Changes in hormone levels during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can alter the composition of sweat. Apocrine glands, active in hormone-rich areas like the underarms, produce sweat rich in proteins and lipids. This type of sweat is more likely to mix with bacteria, leading to more pungent odors.

Diet May Play a Role

Your diet can influence your body odor. Foods like garlic, onions, and spicy dishes release compounds that travel through your bloodstream and are excreted in sweat. High-protein diets may also result in ammonia-like odors due to the breakdown of amino acids.

Stress Triggers Odor-Causing Sweat

Stress activates the apocrine glands, producing a specific type of sweat that interacts more with bacteria. If you're feeling anxious or overwhelmed, you might notice a more pungent odor, even without physical exertion.

Why Is Body Odor Getting Worse Despite Good Hygiene?

Even if you maintain a consistent hygiene routine, your body odor may worsen due to subtle changes in your body or habits. Here's why:

Changes in Skin Microbiome

Your skin's microbiome consists of millions of bacteria that live on its surface. When this balance shifts due to new skincare products, aging, or environmental factors, odor-causing bacteria may thrive, leading to stronger smells.

Ineffective Products

Some soaps and deodorants only mask the odor temporarily or leave a residue that traps bacteria. Over time, this buildup can contribute to persistent odor.

Synthetic Fabrics Trap Odor

Clothing made from synthetic materials like polyester traps heat and moisture, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Wearing these fabrics frequently can worsen body odor.

How to Reduce Body Odor Effectively

Fortunately, you can take steps to manage body odor and keep it under control. Here's how:

Upgrade Your Shower Routine

Cleansing thoroughly is critical to removing sweat, bacteria, and buildup. Use a product like NOMOBO Premier Underarm Rinse, specially formulated to neutralize odor-causing bacteria and leave your skin feeling fresh. With NOMOBO, you can feel confident that you're using a product that works.

Wear Natural Fabrics

Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials designed for activewear. These allow air circulation and reduce bacteria buildup.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Mindfully

Drink plenty of water to flush toxins from your body, and consider adjusting your diet to avoid foods that intensify odor, such as garlic, onions, or heavy spices.

Launder Clothes Frequently

Odor-causing bacteria can linger in clothing. Washing your clothes after every wear, especially workout gear, can prevent smells from setting in.

Manage Stress Levels

Since stress-induced sweat is often more odorous, yoga, deep breathing, or meditation can help you feel calmer and reduce sweat production.

Is Body Odor Normal?

Body odor is entirely natural and a part of being human. It can become bothersome when it's persistent or intense, but it's important to remember that age, lifestyle, and genetics all influence how your body smells. By addressing the root causes and adopting a consistent routine, you can make a significant difference and feel more confident.

Conclusion

If you've noticed your body odor worsening, you're not alone. Factors like hormonal changes, diet, and even clothing choices can all play a role. By understanding these factors and making simple adjustments—such as upgrading your cleansing routine with NOMOBO Premier Underarm Rinse and wearing breathable fabrics-you can regain confidence and feel fresh throughout the day.
Give NOMOBO a try with our "Don't Sweat It" Guarantee. We offer free returns and refunds if you need more than 14 days. Please note that while we believe in the effectiveness of our product, individual results may vary. Take the first step toward long-lasting freshness today!
Back to blog