What are the treatment methods for axillary osmidrosis (smelly armpits)?

Generally, body odor treatment can be selected according to the severity of symptoms, common treatment methods include surgical treatment, topical medications, laser therapy, microwave therapy, and injection therapy. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Surgical Treatment

Surgical treatment reduces sweat secretion by removing or destroying the axillary apocrine glands, thereby reducing odor production at its source. Traditional apocrine gland excision requires skin incision, while minimally invasive procedures are performed through small incisions. Both methods must be conducted in qualified hospitals and are suitable for patients with moderate to severe body odor. Postoperative wound care is necessary to prevent infection.

2. Topical Medications

Medication treatment mostly involves topical solutions or injectable drugs, such as compound glutaraldehyde solution and urotropine solution. Topical solutions can inhibit bacterial growth in the armpits and reduce sweat secretion, while injectable drugs block nerve supply to the sweat glands, lowering their activity.

3. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy uses specific wavelength laser energy on the axillary apocrine glands, destroying the glandular tissue through photothermal effects and rendering them non-secretory. This treatment is minimally invasive with rapid recovery, no incisions required, and suitable for patients with mild to moderate body odor. After treatment, avoid getting the underarms wet, reduce skin irritation, and prevent pigmentation.

4. Microwave Therapy

Microwave therapy delivers microwave energy through the skin surface to target the apocrine glands in the armpits, causing heat-induced cell death and reducing sweat secretion. No surgical incisions are needed, with mild pain and a short recovery period, making it suitable for patients with mild to moderate body odor who are concerned about surgery. Keeping the underarms dry and clean after treatment is essential.

5. Injection Therapy

Injection therapy typically uses botulinum toxin type A injected around the sweat glands in the armpits, inhibiting neurotransmitter release and reducing nerve stimulation of the sweat glands, thus decreasing sweat production. The procedure is quick, requires no recovery period, and effects can last for several months, suitable for patients with mild to moderate body odor. Regular injections are needed to maintain results, and strenuous exercise should be avoided after injection to prevent drug diffusion.

In addition, patients can reduce odor in daily life by showering regularly, changing clothes frequently, and choosing loose, breathable cotton clothing. Also, avoid consuming spicy, pungent, or strong-smelling foods such as garlic, onions, and leeks to reduce the possibility of intensified sweat odor.