The Sunday News
Rutendo Chidawanyika
Body odour! Are you free from it? If so, you are probably healthy as well as lucky.
Body odour also measures your popularity, people will definitely be avoiding any close contact with you due to the unpleasant smell — it could be a cause for embarrassment while attending a party, meeting or get-together of friends. Your family members will also be likely to keep themselves at a physical distance from you.
Body odour is a major concern in the summer season. It affects both men and women to almost the same extent. We are concerned about our smell because people judge how we take care of ourselves by our smell and use this information to decide whether we are worthy of associating with. So in order to be socially active, keep yourself free of body odour. Smell fresh; this is how:
Dose of apple cider vinegar
As vinegar helps in balancing the pH level of the skin creating an antibacterial environment, it is one of the best methods to stop body odour. Since bacteria doesn’t survive in the acidic atmosphere, you can splash some vinegar in the areas where sweating is maximum. This idea is really helpful in controlling the foul smell. Apple cider vinegar makes an excellent wash for dispelling body odour. Dilute 1tsp apple cider vinegar in 250ml water and use frequently as a wash. Don’t be put off by the smell of vinegar, it evaporates quickly, in about 10 minutes.
Use lemon
Rubbing lemon on the parts that stink a lot can help you reduce the smell. You can also squeeze a lemon into the bucket and take a bath with that water. It is a perfect solution to reduce smell from feet.
Antibacterial soap
Antibacterial soap helps to counter the bacteria of the body, which further helps to lessen the foul smel, these are soaps such as Protex, Lifebouy and Dettol.
Body should be dry before dressing
Wipe your body thoroughly with a towel to dry your body properly as wetness attracts sweat easily.
Shower twice a day
Taking a bath twice a day is a perfect solution for those who are likely to have excessive sweat. It not only cools you during the summer months but perfectly targets your body odour. In summer, showering twice a day is a must, even if it’s for just for five minutes. Most people cringe at the thought of having a bath, as it may take too much of their time. But it is necessary.
Get rid of armpit hair
Whether you wear full sleeved clothes or sleeveless tops and tees, you should get rid of the armpit hair that may start giving a bad smell due to sweating. The warm atmosphere is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and hence, makes sure that you maintain proper hygiene. Roll on lasts longer and works better on shaved armpits. You can use a shaving stick or hair remover.
Essential oils
Using essential oils like lavender, peppermint and pine are also the best to reduce the body odour. These oils not only give you a nice fragrance but lasts longer. Lavender oil is also an excellent deodoriser. You can make a strong lavender tea using 250 grams of the herb to 250ml of boiling water, and then adding a few drops of the oil before applying on yourself.
Eat the right food
Oily/ fried food, spicy food can also be a major reason behind extreme sweating which turns into bad body odour after a short while. Firstly, you need to watch what you eat. Avoid strong smelling garlic and onion-based foods. You will be surprised but such foods do affect your body in many ways. Start to drink cooling drinks besides plain water. Take plenty of coconut water, lime water, etc. Include plenty of salads and fruits in your daily diet. Green vegetables are a natural deodoriser and green salads will not only keep your skin fresh but clear it of impurities.
Pick the right clothes and shoes
Don’t wear clothes made of nylon or synthetic stuff as it retains sweat. Wear loose, comfortable cotton clothes that help evaporate sweat. Change your shoes regularly and frequently especially in summer, this will give a fresh feel to the feet. Also wear cotton socks while wearing shoes. Avoid synthetic clothes that do not allow the skin to breathe and avoid tight fitting clothes. Wear loose airy clothes that allow air circulation, thereby keeping you cool.
Stay away from alcohol and smoking
Alcohol and smoking not only result in bad mouth odour, but also body odour as it builds up toxins in the body. When you smoke, the smell tends to adhere to your clothes and body for a long time.
These hygiene hacks are for everybody, the young and mature. Some people use expensive roll on, perfume and powder but still struggle with body odour, while some cannot afford the expensive stuff but want to smell fresh. The advantage of these hacks; they are affordable. Get rid of the body odour. Happy summer!
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