THE SCIENCE BEHIND BODY ODOR: UNDERSTAND AND FIGHT ARMPIT BACTERIA

We all have our unique scent, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and environment. While individuality is something to embrace, sometimes our personal aroma isn't as pleasant as we'd like, especially when it hinders our lifestyle. Let's dive into what causes body odor, the role of armpit bacteria, and how to manage it effectively.

WHAT CAUSES BODY ODOR IN THE FIRST PLACE?

Body odor isn't directly caused by sweat itself, but rather by bacteria breaking down sweat on our skin. Our bodies have two types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine glands are found all over the body and produce a watery sweat, while apocrine glands, located in areas like the armpits, produce a thicker sweat that bacteria love to feast on. This bacterial breakdown is what leads to body odor.

THE TRUTH ABOUT ARMPIT BACTERIA

Our armpits are home to a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium.¹ While these bacteria are natural and necessary for maintaining a healthy skin microbiome, an imbalance can lead to strong B.O. or even infections.² Signs of a bacterial imbalance include persistent odor despite good hygiene, redness, or irritation.

HOW TO GET RID OF ARMPIT BACTERIA

Maintaining good underarm hygiene is key to managing armpit bacteria. Here are some tips:

NATURAL VS. CLINICAL SOLUTIONS FOR BODY ODOR

When it comes to managing body odor, you’ve got options. Natural deodorants are a go-to for people looking to avoid certain ingredients like aluminum salts, parabens, or synthetic fragrances. While these natural products appeal to those looking for a more minimalist or sensitive-skin-friendly approach, they may not offer the same all-day protection.

If natural options aren't cutting it, clinical-strength antiperspirants can step in with longer-lasting odor and sweat protection. These formulas often contain active ingredients like aluminum zirconium or aluminum chloride, which temporarily block sweat glands to help control wetness and odor. It’s all about finding what works best for your body and lifestyle.

FOUR EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES TO COMBAT BODY ODOR

While there's no miracle pill or instant remedy for body odor, you've got the power to make a difference. Here, we share four proactive steps you can take to combat body odor and keep things fresh.

1. Incorporate deodorant into your daily routine

Make deodorant an essential part of your daily regimen. Whether you're targeting your underarms or need all-over freshness, Degree has got you covered.

Take your pick from our range of antiperspirant deodorants, designed to keep up with your active lifestyle. And if regular deodorants and antiperspirants aren’t cutting it, try Degree® Clean Clinical Antiperspirant Deodorant. It delivers prescription-strength wetness protection with 72-hour sweat and odor control to keep you feeling dry, fresh and motivated to move.

For odor protection beyond your pits, there’s our Whole-Body Deodorant — it’s made for underboobs, privates, and everywhere in between.

2. Prioritize regular showers

Combat trapped sweat by showering regularly. Focus on sweat-prone areas such as armpits, feet, toes, and the genital area. Use an appropriate antimicrobial soap or shower gel for thorough cleansing. Make sure your armpits are completely dry after showering. Bacteria thrive in moisture, so keeping the area dry will keep B.O. at bay.

3. Trim your pits

Shaving or trimming your underarms is a strategic move to reduce B.O. Underarm hair traps sweat and can create a moist environment, perfect for odor-causing bacteria to flourish.

4. Choose natural fabrics

Breathable cotton fabrics are your best bet against body odor. Let your armpits breathe freely, so you stay cool and fresh all day long.

Body odor isn’t just about sweat; it’s a bacteria game. With the right hygiene habits and the right products, you can outsmart underarm odor before it starts. Whether you’re Team Natural or Team Clinical Strength, experiment to see what works for your body and keeps you fresh all day long.

References

1. Science Direct. Intervention of Corynebacterium striatum in the sessile lifestyle of Staphylococcus aureus wild-type and mutants for ica genes in polymicrobial biofilms. 2025

2. Medspace. Corynebacterium Infections. 2024.