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Body care

Sweat and body odour

Puberty switches on new sweat glands that can cause body odour. Daily bathing, clean clothes and, if you like, a deodorant keep you fresh.

Why you smell different now

During puberty, new sweat glands become active in the armpits and private areas.

Sweat itself has almost no smell. Body odour happens when bacteria on the skin break down sweat.

Feet can also get smelly because they sweat a lot inside shoes.

Simple habits

Bathe every day with soap, especially in hot weather and after sport. Pay attention to armpits, groin and feet.

Wear clean underwear, socks and vests every day. Cotton clothes let skin breathe.

Dry yourself well, including between your toes. Let shoes air out, and alternate pairs if you can.

Deodorants and antiperspirants

A deodorant covers smell. An antiperspirant reduces sweating. Both are optional, and both are safe for most young people.

Use them on clean, dry skin. If one makes your skin itchy or red, stop using it.

Perfume does not replace washing. It just mixes with the smell.

When sweat is a problem

Some people sweat a lot even when they are cool and calm, so much that it soaks clothes or drips from hands. This is called hyperhidrosis, and a doctor can help.

Sudden night sweats, or a strong smell that does not go away with washing, are also worth asking a doctor about.

Key points

  • Bacteria breaking down sweat cause body odour.
  • Bathe every day and wear clean clothes.
  • Deodorant and antiperspirant are optional and safe for most people.
  • A doctor can help with very heavy sweating.

Myth or fact?

Myth

Body odour means you are unhygienic.

Fact

Body odour is a normal part of puberty. Daily washing and clean clothes manage it well.

Myth

Antiperspirants cause serious illness.

Fact

Large health organisations have not found good evidence that antiperspirants cause serious illness.

When to get help

  • See a doctor if you sweat so much it affects daily life.
  • Tell an adult if you have night sweats, fever or weight loss without reason.
  • If someone teases you about body smell, tell a trusted adult. Teasing is never okay.
Get help now

Check what you know

Question 1

1.What causes body odour?

Question 2

2.Which helps most with body odour?

Question 3

3.What is the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant?

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Based on guidance from NHS, American Academy of Pediatrics, UNICEF. Awaiting review by Puberty Lab's clinical advisory board. General education, not medical advice for any one person.

Sweat and body odour · Puberty Lab