Life
20 Weird But Genius Products That Solve Every Body Odor Concern
For the most part, there is nothing wrong with a little body odor, but sometimes it can be a sign of a deeper issue, like a fungal infection. Either way, there's nothing to be ashamed of and there are plenty of options for snuffing out any unwanted smells. Whether your desire to freshen up your natural aroma stems from a medical issue or a personal preference, we’ve got you covered with the best products to eliminate body odor, from your hair down to your toes — literally.
It doesn't matter if your pits stink, your shoes and feet are smelly, or you have chronic bad breath, you can find a solution that works for you. There are plenty of easy steps you can take to keep unwanted odor at bay, be it a special soap or scrub, a different deodorant or antiperspirant, or even adding a supplement to your daily routine. If you’re concerned about anything related to body odor, these are some of the most effective ways to eliminate it.
The best part of a lot of these products is that they don’t just mask odors, they get to the root of the problem to help tackle even the trickiest body odor woes. Running the gamut from extra strength to extra sensitive, we have options in our roundup to fit everyone and every issue.
1. A Korean Antiperspirant That Just Plain Works
SHVYOG Remove Body Odor Water, $30, Amazon
Every now and then while browsing Amazon, I stumble upon a Korean beauty product that people swear by — and that's the case with this Remove Odor Water. One Amazon user left this glowing review: "I have tried everything. My most extreme effort was use of high aluminum 'no sweat' products, and attempts at natural remedies for odor...But alas nothing managed the odor, until this. I have gone to great lengths to try and translate what's on the bottle, but can tell you for me it's been nothing short of a miracle from the very first application."
2. Refresh Your Hair With A Tonic
Defunk Hair Refresher Tonic, $12, Amazon
Campfires, cigarette smoke, even polluted city air — there are a lot of everyday factors that can leave your hair smelling less than fresh. But there is a solution you can use between washes. Just a spritz a little of this tonic and let its plant extracts do the work neutralizing odors that have found their way into your hair and scalp. One user raved, "This stuff is bomb. Seriously, I workout about five to six times a week...It removes the sweat odor from my hair."
3. Throw Some Deodorant Wipes In Your Bag Just In Case
CRYSTAL Essence Mineral Deodorant Towelettes, $10, Amazon
Sometimes you need to refresh on the go. That's when these deodorant towelettes come in handy. They're individually wrapped so you can toss a few in your purse or gym bag and feel clean throughout the day. This one smells great (like lavender and white tea) and is made without aluminum. In fact, CRYSTAL deodorants actually prevent odor by forming a protective barrier that keeps bacteria out.
4. Get Rid Of Bad Bacteria, But Keep The Good
Mother Dirt Face And Body Cleanser, $15, Amazon
Lots of soaps can strip away bacteria and while that may seem like a good thing, you actually do have some bacteria that your body needs to maintain a healthy balance. Using a biome-friendly face and body wash, like this cleanser from Mother Dirt, can get rid of the bad bacteria and return the good, probiotic bacteria to your skin. The wash is also hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and allergy-tested.
5. Toss On A Shirt With Anti-Odor Fabric
Carhartt Performance Knit Crewneck, $12-$40, Amazon
Why not workout in a t-shirt that pulls its own weight? This Carhartt tee wicks away moisture, and features anti-odor and stain breaker technology. So should you need to go straight from the gym to run errands (or almost anywhere else) no one will be any the wiser.
6. Antifungal Soap Gets Rid Of Odor Causing Problems
Antifungal Soap With Tea Tree Oil, $15, Amazon
In order to get rid of odor issues the right way, you have to get to the root of the problem. According to WebMD, body odor can sometimes be caused by fungal problems like athletes foot, ringworm, or nail fungus. That's why using an antifungal soap with tea tree oil is a great option for healthier skin. It washes away harmful bacteria from the skin's surface, leaving it soothed and refreshed (and no longer a breeding ground for odor).
7. Snuff Out Smelly Feet
Sof Sole Sneaker Ball Deodorizers, $6, Amazon
Once you have your foot odor controlled, you should think about keeping your sneakers fresh too. Because sneakers are narrow, they're often hard to deodorize. That's where these little balls come in handy. They come in a set of two and keep shoes clean and smelling great. Twist the ball, and the scent becomes active. One buyer said, "My gym shoes get really stinky and these got rid of the odor...I leave the balls in my stinky shoes when I am not using them and the next day the odor is gone."
8. Antiperspirant For Your Breasts
Fresh Body Fresh Breasts Lotion, $12, Amazon
Sweat around your breast area not only causes chafing and burning, but it can also be the source of unwanted odor that infiltrates your bra. This breast cream applies as a soothing cream, dries as a powder, and prevents wetness which in turn prevents the damp environment that turns your bra into a bacterial breeding ground.
9. Use A Charcoal Soap Because It Has Antibacterial Properties
The Yellow Bird Activated Charcoal Soap Bar, $10, Amazon
Charcoal has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties which fight odor-causing bacteria. Activated charcoal helps detox skin by absorbing dirt and oil. In turn, acne can clear up. This one is also infused with shea butter, lemongrass, lavender, sunflower oil, palm oil, and coconut oil to restore skin, fight aging, and leave skin feeling super soft.
10. A Whole Kit Dedicated To Keeping Your Mouth Clean And Your Breath Fresh
Amazing Breath Red Apple Starter Kit, $30, Amazon
Give your mouth a deep clean with a kit that helps eliminate odor causing bacteria. This starter kit is great because it comes with everything you need for a fresh, clean mouth. Mix the solutions together as directed, and use it twice a day for fresh breath that lasts longer. It also comes with a tongue scraper that can help get rid of nasty bacteria.
11. Soak The Scent Away
Oleavine Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak, $16, Amazon
Soak away fungus and bacteria that can cause foul odors. You can use this therapeutic foot soak in your tub, or buy a foot spa. Either way, the tea tree oil will soothe itchy, scratchy, infected skin. It's infused with vitamin E which will leave skin feeling soft and smooth. Tea tree oil is naturally antibacterial so it will help treat the problems that can cause bad odor.
12. Scrub Away Dead Skin And Unclog Your Pores
bliss Hot Salt Scrub, $29, Amazon
Dead skin isn't something you want hanging around. It can trap dirt and bacteria in your skin, causing problems like acne, clogged pores, and even unwanted odors. Use a scrub to gently slough away the dead stuff for smoother, more hydrated skin. Plus, this one gets warm as you use it, perfect for soothing muscle aches and knots. And of course, the eucalyptus, rosemary, and lavender will leave you smelling and feeling fresh.
13. Neutralize Odors That Have Found Their Way To Your Hair
ORIBE Hair Care Cote d'Azur Hair Refresher, $23, Amazon
If your hair starts to smell musty but you aren't quite ready to wash it, simply refresh it with a hair fragrance. It's like perfume, but specially formulated for hair. It's great because it won't leave your hair feeling or looking dry. It cuts static, provides UV protection, and leaves your tresses smelling fresh.
14. Use An Easily Absorbed Paste Instead Of A Regular Deodorant
Schmidt's Natural Deodorant, $11, Amazon
If you're okay with spreading on deodorant with your fingers, then you should give this paste a try. Schmidt's makes deliciously scented, natural deodorants that are free from aluminum, certified vegan, and cruelty-free. The paste is easily absorbed into skin, drys quickly and doesn't leave you feeling sticky. Plus it's not greasy so it won't come off on your clothes. Get it in scents like rose and vanilla, bergamot and lime, or lavender and sage.
15. A Mouthwash That Gets To The Root Of The Problem
Pro-Dental Probiotics For Oral Healthcare, $22, Amazon
Instead of using a mouthwash that kills both good and bad bacteria, fight bad breath with a probiotic oral rinse. It will get rid of the bad, odor causing bacteria, while leaving the microorganisms that help keep your gums and teeth clean, and your breath smelling minty fresh—now, that's something to smile about!
16. Use A Natural Organic Deodorant
Whish Deodorant Gel, $18, Amazon
Reduce odors with an all-natural, organic deodorant. This one is made with witch hazel extract, organic aloe, organic chamomile, and organic marigold. The ingredients work together to keep odor at bay while soothing skin. The aluminum-free deodorant also reduces hair growth, making this a two-in-one product.
17. Socks That Wick Away Sweat
PEDS Women's Coolmax Anklet Socks, $15, Amazon
These socks aren’t your run-of-the-mill gym socks. Not only do they feature non-slip elastic panels with arch support and Lycra fiber that fits your foot better and holds up longer, but they also have the patented fiber CoolMax woven in. This specially-engineered polyester fiber improves the socks breathability and draws moisture away from the skin for cooler, dryer feet.
18. A Powder For Your Feet And Your Shoes
Foot Sense All Natural Smelly Foot & Shoe Powder, $18, Amazon
If you have a case of smelly feet, then a medicated powder will be your new best friend. Powder is great at fighting foot odor because it absorbs moisture and helps neutralize bacteria. Several of the buyers on Amazon have said that it's better than other foot powders they've tried. They also note that it works best when you put it on clean dry feet, prior to putting your shoes on. Then at the end of the day, sprinkle more into your shoes to help the freshness last.
19. Long-Lasting Scent Protection For Sensitive Skin
Vichy 24 Hour Dry-Touch Roll On Deodorant, $17, Amazon
If you have sensitive skin, then you shouldn't use harsh antiperspirants or deodorants. This Vichy roll-on is great alternative because it's specially formulated for easily irritated skin. This aluminum-free, salt-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free product fights odors and captures moisture for up to 24 hours — plus, it won't leave any residue on your clothing.
20. Use A Natural Sponge To Clean Your Skin
Natural Sea Sponges (Five Piece Set), $25, Amazon
Loofas may be great for exfoliating, but with continued use, they also become a breading ground for bacteria. Instead, use a natural sea sponge to scrub your skin. It's antibacterial and antifungal so it won't harbor any bad microbes that could cause foul odors.
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