Is underarm odor a sign of axillary osmidrosis (body odor)?

Aug 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In summer or after exercise, the secretion of sweat under the armpits increases. If not cleaned in a timely manner, the sweat may be decomposed by bacteria, resulting in a mild odor. This odor typically disappears after bathing and changing clothes, and the smell is usually faint and does not spread over a long distance. Additionally, long-term consumption of spicy or stimulating foods may temporarily intensify the odor of sweat.

Generally speaking, underarm odor is not necessarily bromhidrosis (body odor), it might be physiological sweat smell or caused by insufficient cleaning. If the odor is strong and persistent, it may be bromhidrosis. If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

In summer or after exercise, when sweat production increases under the armpits, if not cleaned timely, bacteria can break down the sweat, causing a mild odor. This kind of odor usually disappears after showering and changing clothes, and the smell is mild and does not spread far. Additionally, long-term consumption of spicy and stimulating foods may temporarily intensify the smell of sweat. These conditions can be relieved by improving daily hygiene and adjusting diet, and they do not fall into the category of bromhidrosis.

If the underarm odor is intense, similar to a fox-like smell, remains noticeable even after regular cleaning, and can be detected by others nearby in a quiet environment, accompanied by sticky sweat and yellowing of clothes under the armpits, it is mostly related to abnormal secretion of apocrine sweat glands under the armpits, possibly indicating bromhidrosis. This type of odor is unaffected by cleaning frequency and may worsen with pubertal development and emotional fluctuations, affecting daily social interactions.

Maintain dryness under the armpits and frequently change breathable clothing. If the odor persists and affects your life, promptly visit a reputable medical facility for a clear diagnosis. Avoid making self-diagnoses and applying inappropriate treatments, which may delay the opportunity for improvement.

View All

How to completely eliminate body odor (bromhidrosis)

Axillary osmidrosis, commonly known as body odor, typically refers to bromhidrosis in the armpit area. In general, axillary bromhidrosis may be caused by genetic factors, excessive sweat secretion, local bacterial infection, endocrine disorders, dysfunction of apocrine sweat glands, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatment, medication, surgical treatment, or other methods under the guidance of a physician.

View Full Answer

What department should I register for excessive earwax (ozena)?

Axillary osmidrosis, commonly known as body odor, generally refers to axillary bromhidrosis. When seeking medical advice, patients can choose departments such as dermatology, plastic surgery, medical aesthetics, general surgery, or endocrinology, depending on their specific needs and the hospital's departmental setup. Prior to visiting, patients may consult the hospital's official website or contact the hospital via phone to learn about the specific scope of diagnosis and treatment offered by each department.

View Full Answer

How to Treat Body Odor

Axillary osmidrosis, commonly known as body odor, typically refers to bromhidrosis in the armpit area. In general cases, axillary bromhidrosis may be caused by factors such as overactive sweat glands, inadequate hygiene, bacterial infection in the armpits, hyperhidrosis, or endocrine disorders. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatments, medication, or other approaches under a physician's guidance.

View Full Answer

Which is better for treating axillary odor: minimally invasive surgery or laser treatment?

Minimally invasive surgery removes or destroys apocrine gland tissue through small incisions, directly addressing the source of odor. This approach results in a lower probability of odor recurrence after surgery and is suitable for individuals with severe body odor who wish to be free from the long-term困扰 (困扰 translates to "trouble" or "distress") of axillary osmidrosis. However, the procedure involves some trauma, requires a recovery period of 1-2 weeks post-surgery, during which vigorous exercise should be avoided, and may leave small scars.