Dear Skunky,

Sweat glands, imbedded in your skin, produce a liquid as our body gets hot. Evaporation of the liquid cools the body, keeping your body's temperature regulated. This perspiration usually has a distinctive odor, but it is not terribly offensive.

Offensive odor is caused by bacteria on your skin and clothing. The bacteria tends to survive in the warm, moist environment your underarm provides, for example. You said that you shower every day. How about using a deodorant or antiperspirant? The aluminum compounds in antiperspirants may be helpful in reducing the amount of sweat, limiting bacterial growth. In addition to, or instead of, deodorant, wash daily with antibacterial soaps, such as chlorhexidine; use solutions such as povidone-iodine; or apply topical antibiotic cream or ointment on your underarms. Shaving your underarms also tends to reduce odor. Prescription drugs that supposedly reduce sweating, such as those that contain aluminum chloride, whether applied to the skin or taken by mouth, may help some people. Your health care provider can also let you know if any new treatment techniques have been developed.

Alice

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