What does body odor (bromhidrosis) smell like?

Aug 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the odor associated with axillary bromhidrosis is not that of regular sweat, but rather a distinctive, pungent smell often described as sour or similar to a foul odor after fermentation. The intensity of the odor may vary depending on factors such as the amount of perspiration and environmental conditions. Regular hygiene practices, such as frequently washing the underarm area and wearing breathable clothing, can help reduce the spread of the odor. If the odor significantly affects daily life, however, further intervention may be necessary.

Generally, the odor associated with axillary bromhidrosis is not ordinary sweat, but rather a distinctive pungent smell often described as sour or similar to a foul odor after fermentation. The intensity of the odor may vary according to perspiration levels, environmental factors, and other conditions. A detailed explanation is as follows:

The odor of axillary bromhidrosis mainly originates from sweat secreted by the apocrine glands under the armpits. When this sweat is decomposed by bacteria on the skin surface, volatile substances containing sulfur and nitrogen are produced, resulting in a distinct unpleasant odor. Unlike normal sweat, which is relatively mild, this odor is clearly irritating. The smell becomes more noticeable when one leans close to the armpit or is in an enclosed space. After exercise, during hot summer weather, or when experiencing emotional stress, perspiration increases and the rate at which bacteria break down the sweat accelerates, intensifying the odor. The smell may even spread to a certain range around the person, affecting social interactions. However, after cleaning, the odor may temporarily decrease, but will gradually return as sweat is secreted again.

Regularly washing the underarm area and wearing breathable clothing can help reduce the spread of odor. If the odor significantly affects daily life, adjusting lifestyle habits or seeking professional treatment options may help alleviate the issue.

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What are the best methods for permanently removing body odor?

There is no definitive optimal method for the permanent removal of axillary odor. The choice of treatment depends on the individual patient's condition. Common approaches for axillary odor removal include traditional surgery, minimally invasive surgery, laser therapy, botulinum toxin type A injections, and gold microneedle radiofrequency therapy, with varying effectiveness and suitable populations.

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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.

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How to completely eliminate body odor (bromhidrosis)

Under normal circumstances, axillary bromhidrosis may be caused by genetic factors, excessive sweat secretion, local bacterial infection, hyperhidrosis, hyperthyroidism, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then proceed with treatment under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medication, physical therapy, or surgical intervention. Daily care should include regular trimming of underarm hair to reduce bacterial adhesion.

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Why did I suddenly develop body odor when I never had it before?

Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates the body's metabolism, leading to increased sweat production. This results in greater underarm perspiration with altered composition, which, when broken down by bacteria, produces body odor (bromhidrosis). Symptoms may include palpitations and hand tremors. Treatment should involve the use of medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and propranolol tablets under the guidance of a physician to regulate thyroid function.