How to get rid of body odor: 7 effective remedies
Sweating is the body's natural reaction to cool down. Since the Philippines is a tropical country, people sweat a lot more during daily activities. With this, sweaty body parts, like the underarms and feet, are more likely to develop unpleasant smells because of bacteria growth. Although having body odor is normal, it can take a toll on one's confidence and make the people around them feel uneasy. Do you know how to get rid of body odor using natural remedies?
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At times, using everyday personal hygiene products like Olay soap, powder, and deodorants are not enough to combat the cause of body odor, bacteria. Thankfully, there are natural remedies that can help solve the unpleasant smell.
How to remove body odor
Instead of store-bought and over the counter body odor remedies, why not try relying on natural yet effective ways to treat the unpleasant smell? Here are the top seven life hacks you should try to get rid of underarm body odor.
1. Apple cider vinegar
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Using apple cider vinegar as a body odor remedy is not only effective but also very simple, too. Simply apply a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water on cotton pads or balls and rub that on the armpits. Once it dries, the vinegar scent is no longer noticeable. The same method can be used when treating bad foot odor.
The solution's effectivity on neutralizing body odor-causing bacteria is centered on its anti-bacterial properties. Since vinegar is a natural antiseptic, it has the ability to lower the skin's pH level, thus creating a less ideal environment for bacteria growth.
Although in general apple cider vinegar is very safe, in some circumstances it may cause skin irritation or burns when used at high concentrations or too frequently.
2. Baking soda and calamansi
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Using baking soda for underarm odor treatment is most effective when paired with citrus. Since using baking soda alone can cause dryness, lemons or the local calamansi can be mixed with the all-around cleansing agent to create a natural deodorant.
The organic paste can be made by combing a tablespoon of baking soda with a tablespoon of calamansi or lemon. Leave it on for a few minutes before showering or rinsing it off. Similar to apple cider vinegar, the lemon's acidity makes it harder for bacteria growth.
3. Hydrogen peroxide
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Hydrogen peroxide is generally used as a mild antiseptic in treating wounds. What most people do not know is that its antibacterial properties can help get rid of stinky underarm odor.
Prepare a teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide (the type used in households) and mix it with around a cup or eight ounces of water. Using a washcloth, apply the solution to affected areas. This can be used not only for underarms but also for the feet and groin.
4. Lemon
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Lemons are a natural method of how to smell good. Aside from using it with baking soda, it also works great by itself, as its acidity gets rid of the bacteria that cause the nasty smell. Simply rub a slice of lemon on your armpits and let it dry.
However, the same acidity in lemons can cause irritation for super sensitive skin types, so it is best to apply with caution.
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5. Tea tree oil
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Essential oils are great aromatic compounds that embody the plant that they are made from. Tea tree oil is one effective method on how to smell good. For centuries, it has been regarded as traditional medicine, since it contains numerous compounds that fight against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
In two tablespoons of water, place two drops of tea tree oil and mix well. Apply on freshly washed and clean armpits.
6. Potassium alum or crystal deodorant
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Potassium alum is a natural mineral salt that forms a crystal, hence the common name, crystal deodorant. With its antimicrobial properties, its as effective as store-bought deodorants, but without harmful chemicals like parabens.
You can opt to choose potassium alum in its most natural form, a stone, or buy powdered or roll-on products. When using the stone potassium alum, wet the crystal and apply on washed underarms. Rub or apply in circular motions, making sure that there are no sharp parts of the stone that can hurt you.
Its odor eliminating effect is good for around 24 hours. For reapplications, always clean your armpits with rubbing alcohol.
7. Arrowroot
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In the Philippines, the arrowroot or locally called uraro is used as flour or in powder form. Because of its oil-absorbing capabilities, it is an essential ingredient in creating a homemade deodorant.
You will need these ingredients in the following measurements:
- 1/4 cup of arrowroot starch
- 1/3 cup of baking soda
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil
Optional: You may add your choice of essential oil.
First, mix the two powders and then combine it with the coconut oil as the base. Store in a glass jar and apply on underarms when needed.
Whether it is because of puberty or excessive sweating, nobody wants to smell bad. There are numerous methods on how to get rid of body odor and these natural remedies are just some organic tips to help you achieve that good smell.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content including text, graphics, images, and information contained on or available through this page is for general information purposes only.
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