Summer heat is no joke—and with rising temperatures come sweaty days and the unfortunate possibility of underarm odour. It’s something many of us experience but few want to talk about. The good news? Tackling underarm odour during summer is totally doable with the right routine.
Let’s dive into the 8 best tricks to prevent underarm odour this summer, so you can stay cool, fresh, and worry-free all season long.
Why Do Underarms Smell More in Summer?
To truly solve the issue, it helps to understand the cause. Your underarms have apocrine sweat glands, which produce sweat rich in proteins and fats. Bacteria on your skin feed on this sweat, creating unpleasant odours.
Summer heat intensifies sweat production, while tight clothing and poor hygiene can trap moisture—creating a perfect environment for bacteria to flourish.
1. Keep Up with Daily Hygiene
The foundation of preventing odour is clean skin. Wash your underarms at least twice a day using a mild antibacterial soap or body wash. Don’t underestimate the power of a good scrub—exfoliating once or twice a week removes dead skin and prevents bacterial build-up.
💡 Tip: Use a loofah or soft exfoliating glove to gently cleanse without irritating the skin.
2. Choose the Right Deodorant or Antiperspirant
Not all products are created equal. Understanding what your skin needs helps you pick the best option:
- Antiperspirants block sweat glands and reduce moisture.
- Deodorants target the bacteria that cause odour.
For best results, apply your product at night, allowing it to absorb while your body is at rest.
✅ Look for clinical-strength antiperspirants if you deal with excessive sweating.
3. Wear Breathable, Natural Fabrics
Your clothes matter just as much as your skincare. Opt for materials like:
- Cotton
- Linen
- Bamboo fabric
These fabrics allow air to flow, keeping your underarms dry and less prone to bacterial growth. Avoid tight synthetic clothing, which traps heat and sweat.
👕 Style meets function—loose, airy clothes are both summer-chic and sweat-safe!
4. Keep Underarms Dry Throughout the Day
Sweat itself doesn’t smell—it’s the bacteria that causes odour. Staying dry helps keep things under control. Use talcum or baby powder to absorb excess moisture.
Carry antibacterial wipes or underarm pads for a quick mid-day refresh if you’re out and about.
5. Try Natural Odour-Fighting Remedies
Nature offers simple yet powerful tools to fight body odour:
- Lemon Juice – Kills bacteria and naturally freshens. Apply, wait 10 minutes, then rinse.
- Baking Soda – Neutralizes odour and absorbs moisture. Mix with water to form a paste and apply.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances skin pH and prevents bacterial growth. Dilute before applying to avoid irritation.
⚠️ Always do a patch test before applying any natural ingredient to sensitive skin.
6. Stay Hydrated & Eat Right
Believe it or not, what you eat and drink affects how you smell. Hydration helps regulate body temperature and reduce sweat.
Avoid foods that increase body heat and odour, like:
- Spicy foods
- Garlic and onions
- Alcohol and caffeine
Instead, load up on water, fruits, and leafy greens to keep your body cool from the inside.
7. Trim or Shave Underarm Hair
Hair traps sweat and bacteria. While shaving isn’t necessary for everyone, trimming your underarm hair can help reduce odour and make cleansing easier.
Choose what feels comfortable for you—but pair it with proper hygiene for maximum effectiveness.
8. Consult a Doctor if Sweating Is Severe
If your sweating feels unmanageable, you might be dealing with hyperhidrosis, a medical condition where sweat glands are overactive.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Treatments like:
- Prescription-strength antiperspirants
- Botox injections
- Iontophoresis or other therapies
can drastically improve your quality of life.
Final Thoughts
There’s no need to feel self-conscious this summer. With these 8 best tricks to prevent underarm odour this summer, you can confidently enjoy warm weather without worry.
From daily hygiene and breathable clothing to natural remedies and expert help—there’s a solution for every body. Make these habits a part of your daily routine, and freshness will follow you all day long.
Remember, staying odour-free is less about harsh chemicals and more about consistency, cleanliness, and self-care.
FAQs
Q1: How many times should I wash my underarms daily in summer?
A: Twice a day is ideal—once in the morning and once after any heavy sweating.
Q2: What’s the best natural deodorant alternative?
A: Baking soda or diluted apple cider vinegar works well for most people. Always do a patch test first.
Q3: Can shaving my armpits reduce odour?
A: Yes, it helps reduce bacteria buildup by removing hair that traps sweat and microbes.