Does shaving your armpits make deodorant more effective?

Author: Francis Wuckert  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 8, 2025

While it doesn't stop sweat, shaving can reduce odor and make your antiperspirant more effective. Less hair means less surface area for sweat to cling to, and a smoother canvas for product application.

Does deodorant work better with shaved armpits?

Technically, shaving your armpits doesn't directly make you sweat less. However, eliminating or keeping armpit hair short can make your antiperspirant more effective, thereby reducing underarm sweat, body odor, and the appearance of sweat stains :)

Will shaving armpits reduce odor?

Yes, shaving your armpits can help reduce body odor. Here's how: Hair Trapping Sweat: Hair can trap sweat and bacteria, which contribute to body odor. Removing hair can reduce this trapping effect. Easier Cleaning: Shaved armpits are generally easier to clean, allowing for better hygiene.

Does armpit hair stop deodorant from working?

While it's important to note shaving your underarm hair off increases the effectiveness of antiperspirants as the product can sit closer to the skin and sweat glands, that doesn't mean you have to go bald or face dirty looks from your fellow commuters.

Does shaving improve odor?

DOES SHAVING BODY HAIR PROTECT AGAINST BODY ODOUR? The simple answer is yes, shaving body hair can help reduce body odour!

Stink Alert: Understanding the Reasons Behind Smelly Armpits

Are there benefits to shaving armpits?

Hygiene. Men who engage in sports or physical activities may find that shaved armpits allow for better sweat evaporation, reducing the chances of body odour. Additionally, keeping the underarm area clean and free from excess hair can prevent the buildup of bacteria and minimise the risk of skin issues.

How to fix smelly armpits?

How to treat body odour yourself
  1. wash your armpits, groin and feet at least twice a day with soap and dry thoroughly.
  2. shave your armpits regularly.
  3. use antiperspirants and deodorants.
  4. change and wash your clothes regularly.
  5. wear natural fabrics like cotton, wool and silk.
  6. wear antibacterial socks.

Why do I still get BO when I wear deodorant?

Even if you're using deodorant, you might still experience smelly armpits. This could be due to various factors such as diet, stress, hormonal changes, or even the type of bacteria present in your underarms.

How to get rid of armpit odor without deodorant permanently?

Personal hygiene and lifestyle
  1. Keep your skin clean by taking a daily bath or shower with antibacterial soap. ...
  2. Keep your armpits shaved, so sweat evaporates quickly and doesn't have as much time to interact with bacteria. ...
  3. Regularly wash clothing, and wear clean clothes.
  4. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton.

Why do my armpits still smell after a shower and deodorant?

Residual Bacteria

Even after a shower, some bacteria can linger on your skin, especially if you're not scrubbing thoroughly.

Does shaving pubes reduce smell?

Pubic hair holds on to residual urine, vaginal discharge, blood and semen. Bacteria line up all along the hair shaft just lunching it up and creating odor. (Very appetizing, I know.) Trimming your pubic hair reduces that surface area for bacteria, thus reducing odor.

Is plucking armpit hair bad?

Plucking may be a quick and easy way to remove unwanted body hair, but it isn't always the safest or most effective. And plucking underarm hair is no exception. Plucking underarm hair can be painful, time-consuming, and if done incorrectly, can cause irritation, ingrown hairs, or scarring.

Will shaving armpit hair reduce odor?

Shave or Trim:

If you have body hair, consider shaving or trimming it as needed. Hair can trap sweat and bacteria, providing an environment for odour to develop. Removing or trimming body hair could help reduce bacterial growth and improve the effectiveness of deodorant or antiperspirant.

Should I put on deodorant right after a shower?

By applying deodorant right after you shower, you'll be protected against odour all day long right up until you next shower the following day. It's important to apply our deodorant to clean, dry skin. If you apply it to wet or damp skin, the deodorant may not adhere properly, which can reduce its effectiveness.

What are the cons of shaving armpits?

You're more likely to get nicks and cuts in the area, and armpits are famous for getting razor burn. Razor burn can cause deodorant to sting and burn upon application and can increase the itch you're trying to eliminate in the first place by getting rid of the hair.

Is deodorant better on shaved armpits?

Whether it's trimming underarm hair or shaving your underarms, shorter hair means deodorant can reach your skin more effectively. Ultimately, the best way to remove underarm hair is whatever works best for you – but keeping it a little shorter is a good first step.

Am I supposed to shave my armpits up or down?

Women's armpit hair grows in all directions, so shaving in one direction might not result in a close shave. The best way to shave your armpit hair is to lift your arm above your head, press gently down on the razor and shave lightly in short strokes in all directions — downward, sideways and back upward, if needed.

Why do I stink even though I shower every day?

"If body odor persists despite good hygiene, it could signal an underlying health problem like hormonal imbalances, infections, or metabolic disorders," he adds. "It's important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out or treat any serious conditions."

Will my armpits stop smelling if I stop using deodorant?

“If you stop wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, you can develop a stronger odor over time,” Doyle said. “When you stop using (such products) and sweat more, this creates a breeding ground for bacterial and fungal overgrowth, which can cause odor to become stronger.”

Why do I smell bad even with good hygiene down there?

A strong vaginal odor may be a sign of vaginitis, or it may be a temporary smell related to your hygiene, lifestyle or other changes. Take note of whether you have other symptoms. If the odor is related to an infection, you'll usually notice other changes, like vaginal itching, burning and discharge.

What does thyroid sweat smell like?

Diabetes - Fruity smell. Kidney disease - Bleach-like smell. Infectious diseases - Varies with location and infection. Overactive thyroid - Sour smell.

Which deodorant is best for smelly armpits?

  • Products highlighted as 'Overall Pick' are: ...
  • Degree Advanced Protection Antiperspirant Deodorant White Flowers & Lychee for 72-Hour Sweat & Odor Control for Women, with Body Heat Activated Technology, 2.6 oz.

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