Why do I still smell after using body wash?

Author: Kareem Mosciski  |  Last update: Sunday, July 13, 2025

Leftover soap and shampoo can cling to your skin, trapping bacteria and sweat, which leads to that unwanted odor.

Why does my body still smell after washing?

Bacteria on your skin cause body odor. It's completely normal to have a natural body odor and isn't necessarily related to how much you sweat. Sweat itself is odorless. Some medical conditions, genetics, having overweight or eating certain foods could make you more susceptible to bad body odor.

Why do I still smell bad after a shower?

Bacterial overgrowth: Body odor is primarily caused by bacteria on the skin breaking down sweat. If there is an overgrowth of bacteria on your skin, it can lead to persistent body odor even after showering (2).

How to make your body wash smell last longer?

Moisturize. After you step out of the shower, grab a fragranced lotion or oil. These products not only moisturize your skin, but also help lock in the scent.

Why do I smell down there even after showering?

'The vagina has a natural bacterial flora that's there to keep a good balance,' explains Dr Rosén. It's because of this natural bacteria that the cervical mucus in the vagina always has a smell. You may also experience changes throughout your menstrual cycle as the pH balance in your vagina changes.

How to Treat Body Odor like a Dermatologist | Doctorly Investigates

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.

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.

How do you permanently stop body odor?

Self care
  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.

How do you lock the smell of body wash?

How can I make my body wash scent last all day? For a long-lasting smell, layer your products: use the best long lasting fragrance body wash, apply moisturiser, and finish with perfume to keep the scent all day.

How do I make myself not smell even after showering?

Do
  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.

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.

Why does my bum still smell after washing?

It could be a sign of a number of issues, but is more than likely piles related. The smell is most likely anal discharge from the rectum, produced by the mucus membrane, as opposed to the leaking of faecal matter (poo), due to loss of sphincter control.

Why do I smell like bo even after a shower?

Why Do I Have Strong Body Odor? 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 smell good naturally as a woman?

7 tips to help you smell good all day long
  1. Watch what you eat. It's not just what you put onto your body that counts. ...
  2. Drink plenty of water. ...
  3. Choose a perfume / scent that suits you. ...
  4. Where and when? ...
  5. Watch what you wear. ...
  6. Wash regularly. ...
  7. Ensure good dental hygiene.

What to eat to reduce body odor?

Leafy-green vegetables: Spinach, kale, lettuce, arugula and other leafy greens contain high levels of chlorophyll, which can neutralise odour-inducing components.

Is there a way to reset your smell?

Sniffing peanut butter, peppermint, and other strong scents may help you retrain your brain and restore your sense of smell.

Can body wash cause odor?

Disruptions to the skin microbiome can lead to imbalances and body odor. While it's essential to cleanse the skin, excessive washing or the use of harsh soaps can strip away the skin's natural protective oils and disrupt the microbiome.

How can I hide my body odor?

Tips for Reducing Body Odor
  1. Keep Yourself Squeaky Clean.
  2. Use Antibacterial Soap.
  3. Towel Off Well.
  4. Use 'Industrial Strength' Antiperspirants.
  5. Keep Your Clothes Clean.
  6. Cut Out or Cut Back on Certain Foods or Drinks.
  7. Other Body Odor Treatments.
  8. Other Body Odor Preventions.

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 deodorant kills bacteria?

NIVEA Antibacterial Deodorant

NIVEA MEN Silver Protect Anti-Perspirant Roll-On fights and kills up to 99% of bacteria that cause body odour using innovative silver ions to help you feel fresh all day.

Does shaving armpits reduce smell?

Does shaving your armpits reduce body odor? Yes, shaving can help reduce body odor. Hair provides a breeding ground for bacteria, which break down sweat and produce odor. Removing hair can decrease this bacterial activity.

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.

How to get rid of body odor permanently?

You asked, we answered: Can you cure body odor permanently?
  1. Showering daily.
  2. Reducing or removing spicy foods.
  3. Using antibacterial soap or surgical scrub in sweat-prone areas.
  4. Eliminating your use of stimulants, including caffeine.
  5. Reducing stress.

How do you know if you smell bad to others?

Ask someone whom you trust.

Find a friend or a family member to give you an honest appraisal of your odor. Tell them that you're worried that you might be a little malodorous and see what they have to say.

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