Do your armpits sometimes smell a bit like onions? You’re not alone! This can happen to anyone, and it’s usually nothing to worry about. Our bodies sweat, and sometimes that sweat can mix with things we eat, like onions or garlic, and cause an unusual smell.
But don’t worry, there are many easy and natural ways to get rid of that oniony smell and keep your underarms fresh.
Why Do My Armpits Smell Like Onions?
Sweat itself doesn’t have a strong smell. It’s the bacteria on our skin that mix with sweat and create body odor. When you eat foods like onions or garlic, they contain sulfur compounds that can be released through your sweat glands. This can make your underarms smell a bit like these foods.
Here are some other things that can make your armpits smell:
- What you eat: Spicy foods, certain medications, and some health conditions can also change your body odor.
- Hormones: Changes in your hormones, like during puberty or pregnancy, can make you sweat more and change your body odor.
- Fabric: Wearing tight clothes or fabrics that don’t let your skin breathe can trap sweat and make the smell stronger.
How to Get Rid of Onion-Smelling Armpits Naturally
The good news is that there are many natural ways to fight that oniony smell and keep your underarms fresh and clean. Here are some simple and effective home remedies you can try:
Apple Cider Vinegar for Armpit Odor
Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent. This means it can help get rid of the bacteria that cause underarm odor.
- How to use it: Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray it on your underarms after showering and let it air dry. You can also apply it with a cotton ball.
Baking Soda for Odor Neutralization
Baking soda is great at absorbing odors and neutralizing acids. It can help keep your underarms dry and fresh.
- How to use it: Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Apply this paste to your underarms and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
Lemon Juice: A Natural Deodorizer
Lemon juice has antibacterial properties and a fresh, citrusy scent. It can help kill odor-causing bacteria and leave your underarms smelling great.
- How to use it: Cut a lemon in half and rub it on your underarms. You can also mix lemon juice with water and apply it with a cotton ball.
Witch Hazel: A Soothing Solution
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help reduce sweating and control odor. It’s also very gentle on the skin.
- How to use it: Apply witch hazel to your underarms with a cotton ball after showering.
Tea Tree Oil: A Powerful Antimicrobial
Tea tree oil is a strong antimicrobial agent that can help kill bacteria and fungi. It can be very effective in fighting underarm odor.
- How to use it: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil. Apply a small amount to your underarms. Always do a patch test first to make sure your skin doesn’t react to it.
| Natural Remedy | How it Works |
|---|---|
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Antibacterial and antifungal |
| Baking Soda | Absorbs odors and neutralizes acids |
| Lemon Juice | Antibacterial and fresh scent |
| Witch Hazel | Astringent, reduces sweating |
| Tea Tree Oil | Powerful antimicrobial |
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Armpit Odor
Besides using natural remedies, some simple changes to your daily habits can also make a big difference in how your underarms smell.
Keep Your Underarms Clean and Dry
- Shower regularly: Wash your underarms with a gentle soap every day, especially after exercising.
- Dry thoroughly: Make sure your underarms are completely dry after showering. Bacteria love to grow in damp places.
Choose the Right Clothes
- Natural fabrics: Wear loose-fitting clothes made of natural fabrics like cotton and linen. These fabrics allow your skin to breathe.
- Avoid tight clothes: Tight clothes can trap sweat and make odor worse.
Shave Regularly
Shaving your underarms can help reduce odor because it removes the hair that bacteria can cling to.
Watch What You Eat
- Limit strong-smelling foods: Foods like onions, garlic, and spices can affect your body odor.
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated helps your body flush out toxins.
| Lifestyle Change | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Showering regularly | Removes sweat and bacteria |
| Wearing natural fabrics | Allows skin to breathe |
| Shaving underarms | Removes hair that traps bacteria |
| Drinking plenty of water | Helps flush out toxins |
Other Tips for Fresh Underarms
- Exfoliate: Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells from your underarms once or twice a week.
- Detox baths: Add Epsom salts or baking soda to your bath to help draw out toxins.
- Stress less: Stress can make you sweat more, so find ways to relax and manage stress.
- Consider your diet: Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can improve your overall body odor.
- Talk to your doctor: If you’re concerned about excessive sweating or body odor, talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Conclusion: How to Get Rid of Onion Smell Naturally
Dealing with onion-smelling armpits can be a bit embarrassing, but it’s a common problem with simple solutions. By using natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, you can effectively combat odor-causing bacteria and keep your underarms fresh.
Remember to also practice good hygiene, choose the right clothes, and consider your diet to prevent underarm odor. With a little effort, you can say goodbye to oniony smells and feel confident and comfortable all day long.
FAQs
Why do my armpits smell even after I shower?
Even after showering, your armpits might still smell due to lingering bacteria or sweat trapped in your skin. Make sure to dry your underarms thoroughly and consider using an antibacterial soap.
Can I use baking soda and lemon juice together for armpit odor?
Yes, you can combine baking soda and lemon juice to create a powerful odor-fighting paste. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a teaspoon of lemon juice and apply it to your underarms. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off.
How often should I apply apple cider vinegar to my underarms?
You can apply diluted apple cider vinegar to your underarms once or twice a day, especially after showering.
Is it safe to use tea tree oil directly on my skin?
Tea tree oil is very potent and can irritate sensitive skin. It’s best to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying it to your underarms. Always do a patch test first to check for any skin reactions.
What should I do if natural remedies don’t work for my armpit odor?
If natural remedies don’t seem to be effective, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help identify any underlying causes for your body odor and recommend appropriate treatments.