How to Treat Body Odor Without Deodorant
It's true: You don't want to be the only person in the room who stinks or smells awful. Experiencing body odor is normal and is caused by bacteria on the skin, poor diet, smoking or stress. Slathering on anti-antiperspirants or deodorants after bathing is the usual way to tame your body odor. Commercial hygiene products, however, often contain artificial fragrances, colors and harsh chemicals. Treating body odor without using deodorant is possible, but requires a bit of extra effort. Talk to your physician if your body odor worsens, or if you notice a change in your usual scent.
Young man taking a shower. (Image: Hoby Finn/Photodisc/Getty Images)Step 1
Bathe or shower daily. Wash with an anti-bacterial soap. Dry your skin thoroughly after showering.
Step 2
Wear clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen, as natural fabrics will increase air circulation to your skin. Launder your clothing after each wearing to remove bacteria that can cause body odor.
Step 3
Take a wheat grass or chlorophyll supplement after each meal, as wheat grass and chlorophyll act as natural deodorizers, advises Columbia University Health Care. Alternatively, chew on alfalfa, parsley or other leafy greens to neutralize body odors.
Step 4
Wipe under your arms with rubbing alcohol or witch hazel to discourage the growth of bacteria that causes body odor. Alternatively, apply natural deodorizers such as diluted tea tree oil or rosemary essential oil to the underarms.
Step 5
Eat a healthy diet including plenty of fruits and vegetables. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Avoid odor-causing foods such as garlic, beer, onions and strong spices. If you smoke, quit.
Things You'll Need
Antibacterial soap
Wheat grass or chlorophyll supplements
Alfalfa, parsley and other leafy greens
Vinegar, rubbing alcohol or witch hazel
Tea tree oil or rosemary essential oil
Tip
A sprinkle of corn starch can dry wetness on problematic areas, and can be used as often as needed.
Warning
Never apply vinegar, rubbing alcohol or vinegar to irritated or broken skin.
