Is it okay to use alcohol to wipe the armpits if someone has a slight body odor during puberty?
Disease description:
My child is now 13 years old and has entered puberty. Recently, I noticed that my child has developed a slight body odor. I am considering using alcohol to wipe under the armpits. Is it safe and appropriate to use alcohol to wipe the armpits for mild body odor during puberty?
It is not recommended to use alcohol to wipe the armpits for mild body odor during puberty. This is because alcohol is highly irritating and can easily damage the skin, possibly leading to local keratinocyte shedding and necrosis, which may further block pores and potentially worsen the body odor. Body odor mainly results from the combination of excessive sweat secretion from sweat glands and microorganisms; alcohol cannot address the underlying cause. Therefore, for mild body odor during puberty, it is recommended to alleviate the condition by maintaining personal hygiene, showering frequently, changing clothes regularly, and avoiding strenuous activities. If the body odor persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional and pursue appropriate treatment options.