Advertisement
Treatments for Smelly Armpits
Over-the-Counter Solutions
- Antiperspirants and Deodorants: Antiperspirants help reduce sweat production, while deodorants mask the odor. Look for products with ingredients like aluminum chloride, which is effective in controlling sweat.
- Antibacterial Soaps and Body Washes: Using antibacterial products can help reduce the bacteria on the skin, thereby minimizing odor.
Home Remedies
- Baking Soda: Baking soda neutralizes odors and absorbs moisture. Apply a small amount to your armpits after showering.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Its acidic properties can kill bacteria and balance the skin’s pH. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water and apply it to your armpits with a cotton ball.
- Lemon Juice: The citric acid in lemon juice can reduce bacteria and lighten dark underarms. Apply lemon juice directly to your armpits and rinse off after 10 minutes.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can be diluted with water and applied to the armpits to combat odor.
Medical Treatments
- Botox Injections: Botox can temporarily block the nerves that stimulate sweat glands, reducing sweat and odor. The effects can last for several months.
- Prescription Antiperspirants: For severe cases, doctors may prescribe stronger antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride hexahydrate.
- Oral Medications: Anticholinergic medications can reduce sweating but may have side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision.
- Surgery: In extreme cases, surgical options like sympathectomy (cutting the nerves that stimulate sweat glands) or removing the sweat glands can be considered.
