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WHAT ACTUALLY CAUSES ARMPIT ODOR?
Sweat gets blamed for a lot but on its own, it’s odorless. So why do armpits smell? The real issue starts when sweat meets the bacteria that live on your skin. Most of the odor comes from apocrine sweat glands, found in areas like your underarms. These glands release a thicker type of sweat that, when broken down by bacteria, produces that all-too-familiar body odor.
Other factors can also influence the smell like stress, spicy foods, and even your genes. So, if one armpit smells stronger than the other (yes, it happens), chances are it’s just part of your body’s natural chemistry.
DOES ARMPIT HAIR CAUSE ODOR?
You’ve probably heard the theory: the more armpit hair you have, the more you’ll smell. But does armpit hair actually cause odor? Not directly. Hair itself doesn’t have a scent, but it can hold onto sweat and bacteria — two of the main ingredients behind body odor. That can make the smell more noticeable if you’re not keeping the area clean.
Interestingly, armpit hair also helps with moisture wicking and airflow, which may help reduce odor for some men. So, does having more armpit hair make you have B.O.? Not necessarily. It really comes down to hygiene and how well you manage sweat.
DOES SHAVING YOUR ARMPITS REDUCE SMELL?
Shaving your armpits can make a difference for some men. With less hair, there’s less surface area for bacteria and sweat to cling to and deodorants may apply more evenly on smooth skin. So yes, shaving armpits can reduce odor, especially when paired with good hygiene.
But it’s not a one-size-fits-all fix. Some guys prefer to keep their hair, and that’s fine too. The key is finding what works for your body and your routine.
HOW TO REDUCE ARMPIT ODOR DAILY
Managing odor doesn’t need to be complicated. A few smart habits can go a long way:
- Shower daily (and after workouts): Use a gentle cleanser to remove sweat and bacteria from your underarms.
- Keep your underarms dry: Bacteria thrive in damp environments, so towel off completely before applying deodorant.
- Choose the right deodorant or antiperspirant: Deodorants help mask odor; antiperspirants help reduce sweating. Some products do both so make sure to choose the right deodorant for your needs.
GROOMING PRODUCTS THAT ACTUALLY HELP WITH UNDERARM BODY ODOR
Not all deodorants are created equal. The right one can make a big difference in how fresh you feel and how well your skin holds up — especially if you shave your underarms or sweat a lot.
Deodorants for sensitive skin
Choose dermatologist-tested formulas. Deodorants like Dove Men+Care Clean Comfort Dry Spray Antiperspirant Deodorant are gentle, especially after shaving, and can help prevent irritation with soothing ingredients like vitamin E.
Deodorants for heavy sweating
Antiperspirants reduce sweat by blocking moisture at the source — ideal for workouts, long days, or high heat. Look out for Dove Men+Care Midnight Classico Deodorant Stick.
Deodorants for all-day protection
Clinical-strength or 72-hour options are built for durability and peace of mind from morning to night. Try Dove Men+Care Extra Fresh Antiperspirant Stick.
Deodorants for clean grooming
Aluminum-free or plant-based deodorants like Dove Men+Care Aluminum free Eucalyptus + Birch Deodorant Spray are great if you’re after a more natural routine.
FAQs
Why does my left armpit smell worse than the right?
It’s common for different armpits to smell differently, and it usually comes down to daily habits — like favoring one arm, carrying a bag on one side, or sweating more on your dominant side. Even how evenly you apply deodorant can make a noticeable difference, so take a moment to apply the same number of swipes to each side for balanced protection.
Does shaving armpits reduce odor for everyone?
Shaving armpits to reduce body odor doesn’t work for everyone, but it can help. Less hair means fewer places for bacteria to live. If you’re not sure, try it and see if it makes a difference for you. Get tips on how to shave your armpits in this article.
How do I know if my body odor is a health concern?
If your odor suddenly changes, becomes very strong, or comes with other symptoms like fatigue or skin irritation, it’s a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider.
Does diet play a role in how my armpits smell?
Absolutely. Spicy foods, garlic, onions, alcohol, and caffeine can all change the way your sweat smells.
Understanding why armpits smell and what affects your body odor puts you in control. Whether you shave or not, the key is clean skin, the right products, and staying consistent.
