Can frequent bathing remove armpit odor?

Jul 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My brother has axillary osmidrosis (body odor) and wants to reduce the odor by taking baths. Can frequent bathing eliminate armpit odor?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Frequent bathing can reduce axillary odor to some extent, but may not completely eliminate it. Axillary odor mainly results from the decomposition of sweat by bacteria in the armpit area, where apocrine glands are highly active. Bathing helps remove surface dirt and bacteria from the skin, thereby reducing bacterial breakdown of sweat and decreasing odor production. However, for individuals with severe axillary odor, bathing alone may not be sufficient to achieve satisfactory results. In such cases, additional measures, such as using antiperspirants, keeping clothing dry and breathable, and avoiding strenuous exercise to minimize sweating, should be considered. Moreover, for some patients with severe axillary odor, more definitive treatments such as surgery or laser therapy may be necessary. Therefore, although regular bathing can help alleviate axillary odor, the effectiveness varies depending on individual circumstances.