Australian doctor reveals trick to sweat less during summer

QUESTION: Hi Dr Zac, How good is summer?! The hot weather is fantastic, but I’m sweating like a pig. What’s more, my sweating has this God-awful stench! What can I do about body odour in summer, because it feels like not even deodorant can tame my pits. – Adrian, 42, Sydney

ANSWER: Be sure to always remain hydrated during summer, and to wear sunscreen when appropriate. If you are sweating profusely it probably means you need to spend some time in a cool, shady spot. Your body sweats to cool itself down, so you need to listen to it.

A big misconception people have is that sweat causes odour. Odour is actually caused by bacteria that lives on the parts of your body that is prone to sweat – places like your armpit for example. As you sweat, these bacteria break down proteins in your sweat into acids, producing those unmistakeable, less-than-pleasant scents.

Deodorant doesn’t have to be the only solution to solving your smelly business. You should also be looking for natural remedies as well, because rubbing chemicals on your body doesn’t always need to be the answer.

Here are my top tips for preventing body odour naturally:

It’s all about fashion

It’s not often I give fashion advice in a medical context, but here it is appropriate. You should be avoiding clothes made from synthetic fabric that will trap heat or cling to your body and collect sweat. Opt for natural fibres and breathable, light coloured, loose clothing. As a doctor, I will tell you now it is a fashion crime to wear black in summer.

Wash your body all over

If you find yourself hot and sweaty, it may be best to shower. This means during summer it is okay to wash your body in the shower more than once. You should be doing it when appropriate if you are prone to pong.

Stay hydrated

Hydration can be key to reducing excessive sweating. Water helps regulate your body’s temperature.

You can make friends with salad, not garlic

Try to avoid foods laden with onions, garlic or chilli. These can cause your sweat to smell unpleasant. A simple salad on a hot day is perfect. Incorporating chlorophyll-rich foods like parsley, spinach and other leafy greens can help reduce body odour.

When life gives you lemons, make deodorant

Applying lemon juice to your underarms can help neutralise odour due to its natural antibacterial properties. Be cautious if you have sensitive skin, as lemon juice can be irritating.

Do your laundry!

Make sure your clothes and bed linens are cleaned regularly, as bacteria can thrive on dirty fabric.

It’s completely normal to smell. A light scent isn’t something to freak out about. Your genetics, the bacteria your skin attracts, overall health, and personal hygiene all influence your signature smell. Let your pheromones run free.

Got a question? Email askdrzac@conciergedoctors.com.au

Dr Zac Turner has a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Sydney. He is both a medical practitioner and a co-owner of telehealth service, Concierge Doctors. He was also a registered nurse and is a qualified and experienced biomedical scientist along with being a PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering.