Some days, a man leaves home well-groomed, with a crisp shirt, neat hair, and just enough perfume. However, after a day of work, commuting, eating garlic and onion, drinking coffee, and sitting for long periods in closed shoes, their body odor can become noticeable.

According to Doctor Tra Anh Duy, a specialist in II degree from Men's Health Male Health Center, body odor is a normal phenomenon. Its intensity depends on a combination of physiology, skin bacteria, and lifestyle habits. Hygiene and living environment play a much more important role than perfume.

Sweat itself does not always cause odor. The body has two main types of sweat glands. Eccrine glands secrete a watery fluid that helps regulate body temperature and typically produces little odor if the skin is clean. In contrast, apocrine glands are concentrated in the armpits, groin, and genital areas. When these secretions mix with bacteria, they are broken down, forming compounds that create a distinctive odor.

"Body odor is actually the result of the interaction between sweat, bacteria, restrictive clothing, and lifestyle habits, not just sweat alone," the doctor explained.

Several studies, including one by James and colleagues published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, note that the bacterial flora in the armpit plays a significant role in odor production. This explains why some people sweat profusely but have little odor, while others develop a noticeable smell even with slight dampness on their shirts.

In men, body odor is often more pronounced due to more active sweat glands, higher hair density, a tendency for more physical activity, wearing restrictive clothing, prolonged wearing of shoes, and factors such as stress, alcohol, tobacco, and a diet rich in spices. Testosterone also affects the sebaceous glands, but this does not mean "masculinity must have an odor."

Regarding perfume and deodorant, Doctor Duy states that perfume only creates an external scent layer and does not address the root cause. If the body or clothes are not clean, the odor can become more unpleasant. Deodorants and antiperspirants can help, but they must be used correctly to avoid irritation.

Dietary choices, such as onions, garlic, curry, strong spices, alcohol, and tobacco, can also intensify body odor in some individuals. However, strict abstinence is not necessary. The key is to adjust appropriately and monitor the body's reaction. If certain foods lead to a stronger body odor, reduce their frequency, drink enough water, increase vegetable and fruit intake, and prioritize hygiene after physical activity.

According to Doctor Duy, the most important principles remain cleanliness, dryness, and ventilation. Showering after sweating, thoroughly drying the armpit, groin, and foot areas, changing underwear and socks daily, choosing breathable clothing, and washing and drying clothes properly can significantly improve body odor.

Doctor Duy advises a patient. Photo: Lam Anh

At Men's Health, the doctor once treated a 34-year-old male patient who sought examination for a persistent odor, itching, and dampness in the groin area. The patient frequently used perfume to mask the odor, but it did not improve. An assessment revealed habits of wearing tight clothing, prolonged sitting, wearing closed shoes, and re-wearing clothes after exercise. Examination showed a damp groin area, intertrigo, and suspected mild fungal infection.

According to the expert, many cases of body odor are actually symptoms of dermatological conditions or inappropriate lifestyle habits. "If the odor persists along with itching, redness, dampness, or skin lesions, men should seek medical examination to identify the cause and receive treatment, rather than just surface-level solutions like masking it with perfume," the doctor advised.

Le Phuong