Can body odor (bromhidrosis) be completely cured?
Aug 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
The surgery eliminates the source of odor by removing the apocrine glands in the armpit that produce excessive sweat, or by destroying the apocrine gland tissue using techniques such as laser or microwave. If the surgery is performed properly and thoroughly covers the targeted area, most, if not all, abnormal apocrine glands can be effectively treated. Proper wound care and prevention of infection after surgery are also essential.
Generally, body odor (bromhidrosis) can be effectively cured through surgical removal of abnormal apocrine glands or by disabling their function. Most patients can achieve a permanent cure with surgery. However, if treatment relies solely on daily hygiene practices and antiperspirant products for temporary relief, a permanent cure is difficult to achieve and odor may recur easily. If concerned, it is advisable to consult a doctor early. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Surgery removes the abnormal apocrine glands under the armpits that secrete odorous sweat or uses techniques such as laser or microwave therapy to destroy the apocrine gland tissue, thereby eliminating the root cause of the odor. If the surgical procedure is performed properly and covers all affected areas, most, if not all, abnormal apocrine glands can be effectively treated. Postoperative wound care and infection prevention are also essential.
If treatment does not directly target the apocrine glands, and only involves frequent bathing, changing into breathable clothing, and using antiperspirant products, these measures can only temporarily clean the skin surface, suppress sweat secretion, or mask the odor. They cannot eliminate the apocrine glands, which are the actual source of the odor. Once these measures are stopped or when triggered by physical activity, heat, or emotional stress, the apocrine glands may secrete sweat again, causing the odor to reappear, making it difficult to achieve a permanent cure.
When choosing a treatment method, it is important to fully understand the effectiveness and risks of different options. If redness, pain, or a sudden increase in odor occurs during the postoperative period or care process, timely medical attention should be sought to avoid affecting recovery or symptom control.
