Is body odor contagious?
Aug 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, body odor (bromhidrosis) is not contagious. It is important to keep the underarm area clean and dry in daily life, take showers regularly, change clothes frequently, and choose loose, breathable cotton clothing to reduce bacterial growth. In terms of diet, avoid consuming excessive spicy, stimulating, or greasy foods, such as chili peppers and fried foods, as these may exacerbate sweat secretion and odor.
Generally speaking, body odor is not contagious. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Body odor mainly results from sweat secreted by the axillary apocrine glands, which is then decomposed by bacteria on the skin surface, producing unsaturated fatty acids and ammonia, thus creating a distinctive pungent smell. This condition is closely related to genetic factors, as the secretory function of the apocrine glands is influenced by genes, as well as regulated by hormone levels, diet, and hygiene habits. From the perspective of conditions required for transmission, body odor does not involve pathogens such as bacteria or viruses, and therefore cannot be transmitted to others through contact, air, droplets, or any other means. Even with close contact with someone who has body odor, one will not develop the same symptoms, so there is no need to worry about getting infected.
In daily life, it is important to keep the underarms clean and dry, bathe and change clothes frequently, choose loose and breathable cotton clothing to reduce bacterial growth. In terms of diet, avoid excessive intake of spicy, stimulating, or greasy foods, such as chili peppers and fried foods, as these may exacerbate sweat secretion and odor. If the odor affects your daily life, consult a professional doctor to explore scientific ways to improve the condition.
