Why do I smell even if I wear deodorant?

Author: Thora Schinner  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Hyperhidrosis, the medical term for excessive sweating, could also contribute, because bacteria thrives in moist environments. "If body odor persists despite good hygiene, it could signal an underlying health problem like hormonal imbalances, infections, or metabolic disorders," he adds.

Why do I smell bad even with deodorant?

Bacterial Activity: Body odor is primarily caused by bacteria breaking down sweat. If your skin has a higher concentration of odor-causing bacteria, you may still experience smell even with deodorant. Regular washing and exfoliation can help reduce bacteria.

Why is my deodorant not helping my odor?

Factors like hormonal changes, diet, stress, and even your workout routine can alter your body's chemistry, making your once go-to deodorant less effective.

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.

Why do I still smell after using natural deodorant?

When you make the switch from traditional antiperspirants to natural deodorants, it's common to enter what is known as the "Detox Phase." During this initial period, you might observe an increase in both sweat and body odour. This response is perfectly normal and an important part of transitioning to a natural product.

I Use Deodorant! Why Do I Still Stink? #AskAMAZE

Why does it smell when I open my legs?

We get it — it's a common problem, but sometimes it can make you self-conscious (“wait, can other people smell that, too?!”) and affect your confidence. Inner thigh odor is caused by various factors, including excessive sweating, fungal infections, poor hygiene, and hormonal changes.

What does high estrogen smell like?

Does estrogen have a smell? Estrogen doesn't have a scent, but hormonal changes during menopause can alter body odor. As estrogen drops and testosterone becomes more dominant, sweat may attract more bacteria, leading to stronger smells, particularly during hot flashes.

What deodorant is best for smelly armpits?

Our top picks
  • Best Overall: Mario Badescu Deodorant.
  • Best Antiperspirant Deodorant: Degree MotionSense Lavender & Waterlily Antiperspirant.
  • Best Budget: Dove 0% Aluminum.
  • Best for Serious Sweat: Advanced Care Cool Essentials 72-Hour Antiperspirant & Deodorant.
  • Best Cream: Megababe The Cream Deo.

Will I eventually stop smelling if I stop wearing 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.”

How do I tell if I smell bad?

Smell your armpits, feet, and groin area.

If you think you have body odor but you're not sure, take a whiff of your underarms, your feet, and your genitals. If you smell something, then chances are, you probably have B.O. Try doing a sniff test toward the end of the day, or whenever you feel the sweatiest.

Why do I smell like bo even though I just showered?

Body odor (BO) is caused by bacteria and sweat, but it can also be influenced by factors such as hormones, certain medications, infections or other medical conditions, and the foods you eat. You can have strong body odor even if you practice good hygiene.

How to fix stinky armpits?

The following suggestions may help:
  1. Bathe daily. Regular bathing, especially with an antibacterial soap, reduces the growth of bacteria on your skin.
  2. Choose clothing to suit your activity. For daily wear, choose natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool and silk. ...
  3. Try relaxation techniques. ...
  4. Change your diet.

Why doesn't deodorant stop me from smelling?

You're Not Putting It On Right

Make sure you completely dry off after your shower before using your deodorant. You want the formula to absorb into your skin properly, and it won't if you are wet or sweaty after your shower. This may sound silly, but read the instructions on how to apply the deodorant.

Why does it smell when I pull my pants down?

Our vaginas are home to billions of bacteria and the balance of this bacteria changes constantly, creating different aromas varying from musty and fermented to coppery or sweet smelling. These smell variations are likely a result of your menstrual cycle, your hygiene habits, or just you.

Why do I smell bad even with good hygiene?

Still, it's possible that things like diet, medical conditions or a bacterial buildup on the skin could be causing odor, Kopelman says. Hyperhidrosis, the medical term for excessive sweating, could also contribute, because bacteria thrives in moist environments.

How do you fix smelly legs?

Do
  1. wash your feet at least once a day (use an antibacterial soap if you can)
  2. remove hard skin with a foot file and keep toenails short and clean.
  3. use foot powder or an antiperspirant.
  4. wear breathable or natural fabrics on your feet, like cotton or leather.
  5. let shoes dry out before wearing them again.

Can people smell you if you can smell yourself?

If you can smell yourself through your pants, other people may not smell anything. That is because we all have different smell perceptions, and certain factors, such as distance, location, and sensitivity, affect how we smell.

What does BV smell like?

Discharge: The hallmark sign of BV is discharge with a “fishy” smell. Discharge from yeast infections doesn't usually have a strong smell but may look like cottage cheese. Vaginal irritation: Typically, BV doesn't cause vaginal irritation or itchiness.

Why do I feel like I stink but I don't?

Olfactory reference syndrome (ORS), also known as olfactory reference disorder, is an underrecognized and often severe condition that has similarities to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). People with ORS think they smell bad, but in reality, they don't.

Why do I smell even with 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.

What kills odor causing bacteria?

Many deodorants and antiperspirants also contain antimicrobials, like propylene glycol, triclosan and benzalkonium chloride, which decrease bacterial abundance and result in an altered skin microbiome in the armpits.

Is it okay to put vaseline on your armpits?

Apply skin-healing ointment.

Diaper rash ointment that contains zinc oxide helps treat and protect delicate underarm skin from irritation to encourage healing. Petroleum jelly is another good product to apply to your underarms, as it helps soothe skin, says Durham.

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