Are you or do you know someone with a strong body odor under their armpits? You're not alone! Because everyone recognizes it.

Smelly armpits can make you feel insecure, even though it's a problem most people have experienced at some point. But fortunately, it's often not serious at all, and it can be treated effectively.

Where does that nasty sweat smell come from?

First, let me tell you that sweat itself doesn't actually smell. So, where does that sweat smell come from, you might be thinking.

Sweat itself is usually odorless; what causes that nasty smell is when sweat comes into contact with certain bacteria on your skin.

However, your sweat can have a smell. This is related to certain foods or medicines, but this is not the strong underarm odor we're talking about.

Why do we sweat?

Your body is covered in sweat glands. And that's good news, because sweating is necessary, among other things, to help cool your body down.

Additionally, sweating helps remove waste products from your body.

The body often sweats more under stress. But the sweat released then only starts to smell when it comes into contact with certain bacteria on your skin.

The glands under your armpits only become active during puberty. That's why you sometimes suddenly notice a sweat smell from your teenager.

In most cases, sweating is perfectly normal. But there are also people who sweat excessively. If you think this applies to you, it's best to see a doctor.

But deodorant should help, right?

Yes, deodorant certainly helps. But do you know exactly how a deodorant works?

The aluminum chlorohydrate in deodorant is absorbed by your skin and blocks your pores. This prevents sweat from leaving your body. This method has been used to combat underarm odor for years.

But there's another way. Many people want to tackle sweat odor differently. For example, because they find it strange that sweat is trapped in your armpits, thereby disrupting your body's natural process.

Another way to tackle unpleasant underarm odor is with natural deodorant. This prevents sweat odor by targeting the real culprit: the bacteria living in your armpits.

Some benefits of using an aluminum-free deodorant can include:

• Allowing your body to sweat freely using its natural process.
• Avoiding aluminum in beauty products.
• Unclogged armpit pores.
• Less armpit irritation.
• Increased natural detoxification of the body through sweating.
• Odor masking and prevention with pleasant, often natural, scents.
• Hydrated, healthier armpit skin.

Don't believe it? Just try it, it really works well. You can even use it for your feet.

How to prevent smelly armpits?

• Wash daily with soap.
• If you sweat a lot, it's best to wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
• Remove hair from areas where you sweat a lot.
• Lower your stress levels.
• Use a natural deodorant.

When should you see a doctor?

If you've tried several types of deodorants and nothing helps to reduce your underarm odor, consult a doctor.

They can rule out possible underlying conditions and recommend stronger treatments.