Can body odor (bromhidrosis) be completely cured?
Aug 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
By surgically removing the abnormally enlarged apocrine glands in the armpit, or destroying the apocrine gland tissue using methods such as laser or microwave treatment, sweat secretion and the resulting odor caused by bacterial decomposition can be fundamentally reduced. If the procedure is performed thoroughly, postoperative care is appropriate, and there is no residual or regenerated apocrine gland tissue in the patient, the odor can disappear permanently for most individuals, requiring only routine hygiene in daily life.
Generally, after removing abnormal sweat glands through professional methods such as surgery, most people can remain odor-free for a long time, but this does not constitute a complete cure. If relying solely on daily hygiene or medication for relief, it is difficult to achieve a permanent solution, and the odor tends to recur easily. If concerned, it is advisable to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Surgical removal of the abnormal sweat glands under the armpits, or destroying sweat gland tissue using laser or microwave treatments, can significantly reduce odor caused by sweat secretion and bacterial breakdown at its source. If the surgery is thoroughly performed, post-operative care is appropriate, and there is no residual or regrowth of sweat glands, most individuals can remain odor-free for a long time after surgery. Only routine cleaning is needed in daily life, achieving an effect close to a complete cure, with a low probability of recurrence.
If one relies solely on regular bathing, changing clothes, and using antiperspirants for daily care, or temporarily uses medications to suppress odor, these methods can only temporarily reduce sweat secretion or mask and alleviate the odor without addressing the root cause—the sweat glands themselves. Once daily care stops or the effects of medication wear off, the odor will reappear. Especially during physical activity or in hot, humid conditions, odor recurrence becomes more evident, making it difficult to achieve a complete and lasting cure.
Before choosing a treatment method, it is important to understand the effectiveness and risks associated with different approaches. If skin discomfort or sudden worsening of odor occurs during post-operative recovery or daily care, timely medical consultation is necessary to avoid delays in treatment.
