The cause of armpit sweat could be lurking in the bathroom closet.
As the UK enjoys some much-needed sunshine, many are quick to remember the least pleasant aspect of warmer weather: excessive sweating. This not only causes unpleasant body odor, but also requires frequent showers, doubling our usual hygiene efforts.
But what if your daily grooming routine is actually exacerbating your sweating problem?
A dermatologist has revealed that a common product we use as part of our morning ritual ironically contributes to our stench even though it promises to do the opposite.
Dr. Adel, a skin expert who shares tips on TikTok under the name @aamnaadel, suggests that to combat sweaty, smelly armpits, you should start by throwing your deodorant in the trash.
She explained: “Your deodorant should go in the trash. Okay, I said it. Deodorants do absolutely nothing to stop you from sweating. They are literally just fragrances that cover up the smell of your sweat. Honestly, the idea that sweat is mix with fragrance is so disgusting to me.”
Instead, Dr. Adel advises switching to an antiperspirant, which actively works to reduce sweating. In addition, he highlights the optimal time of day for its application.
She emphasized: “The key here is that you should put your antiperspirant on at night. I know it seems strange and feels weird, but honestly, believe me when I tell you that that’s what will make your antiperspirant work best.
“When you sleep, your little sweat glands sleep too, so they will absorb the antiperspirant much better and be much more effective.”
Elsewhere in her video, Dr. Adel suggested those struggling with underarm odor use a product called PanOxyl to clean them. In the UK, a similar product called Acnecide, which has the same active ingredients, is available in stores such as Boots.
“It doesn’t matter what percentage you use,” he said, “you can use 10%, you can use 4%. You’re going to lather it up and you’re going to wash your armpits with it, but stop.” Leave it on for two minutes to give it a chance to work.
“Not only will that help kill the bacteria that makes sweat smell, but it can also help reduce the number of ingrown hairs. So it’s a two-in-one job.”
However, the dermatologist warned in the comments that PanOxyl can bleach towels, so she recommended “using a separate towel” for those considering trying the product.
