How to eliminate underarm odor

Axillary odor (commonly known as “bromhidrosis”) is attributed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to internal accumulation of damp-heat. In Western medicine, it is understood to result from the breakdown—by *Staphylococcus* bacteria residing on the skin surface—of secretions from the apocrine glands located in the axillae. These secretions contain unsaturated fatty acids and proteins, which, upon bacterial metabolism, produce a distinctive, unpleasant odor—hence the term “axillary bromhidrosis.” So, how can one effectively eliminate axillary odor? Below, we address this question.

How to Eliminate Axillary Odor

1. Topical Medications

Axillary odor can be managed using deodorants and antiperspirants. Deodorants mask the odor caused by bacterial activity on the skin but do not reduce sweat production; therefore, antiperspirants may be necessary when excessive sweating occurs. Antiperspirants typically contain aluminum compounds (e.g., aluminum chloride), which temporarily block sweat ducts and thereby reduce perspiration, while also exerting mild antibacterial and deodorizing effects. However, prolonged or excessive use is not recommended. Other topical agents—including aluminum chloride solution and povidone-iodine solution—may also be applied to inhibit bacterial metabolism of apocrine gland secretions, thus preventing odor formation.

2. Botulinum Toxin Injection

Physical interventions targeting the apocrine glands—such as localized intradermal botulinum toxin injections—can effectively suppress axillary odor. Botulinum toxin temporarily inhibits acetylcholine release at nerve endings innervating the apocrine glands, thereby reducing glandular secretion. While sometimes described colloquially as “corrosive,” the mechanism is actually neurochemical inhibition—not tissue corrosion—and leads to significant, albeit temporary, reduction in odor-causing secretions.

3. Surgical Treatment

Surgical intervention offers a definitive approach to eliminating axillary odor. Two main surgical strategies exist: conventional excision and minimally invasive techniques. Conventional surgery involves elliptical excision of the entire hair-bearing axillary skin region—including both the epidermis and underlying apocrine glands. Minimally invasive procedures, by contrast, preserve the skin surface while selectively removing or ablating the subcutaneous apocrine glands via suction, curettage, or laser energy.

4. Personal Hygiene Practices

Daily bathing is essential for maintaining overall cleanliness—and especially critical for the axillary region—to minimize odor development. This practice is particularly important during summer months or after physical activity, when increased sweating creates an ideal environment for bacterial proliferation. Wearing loose-fitting, breathable, 100% cotton clothing further supports effective thermoregulation and sweat evaporation, thereby limiting bacterial growth and subsequent odor generation.

The above outlines various approaches to managing axillary odor. We hope this information proves helpful to you.