Skin problems don’t discriminate. They hit salesmen with the same indifference as supermodels. Dermatological issues span the entire spectrum. You have complex, stubborn conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Then you have the daily grind of dry or oily skin.
Many men struggle with dry skin. They are also the unwilling carriers of another unpleasant condition: body odor.
There is a tempting theory here. You might want to blame the funk on the dryness. Think again. Dermatologists are clear on this point. Dry skin is rarely, if ever, the cause of body odor.
That stench sets up camp in moist, sweaty areas. Think armpits. Think between the toes. It thrives in the damp. The good news? The solution is often simple. A trip to the drugstore or a dermatologist’s office usually does the trick.
The Real Culprit Behind Body Odor
You probably prefer to be noticed for your charm. Your smile. Your good looks. Not for the unpleasant odor that precedes you. It is annoying. Don’t let it freak you out. Most cases are easily treatable.
Here is the hard truth. Old-fashioned sweat is not to blame. Sweat is totally odor-free.
“It’s bacteria that live on the surface of the skin that produces the yeast that causes the odor.”
This comes from Alan Menter, M.D. He is the Chairman of the Department of Dermatology at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, Texas.
Sweat is just water and salts. The smell comes from the bacteria and yeast living on your skin’s surface. They break down the sweat. That chemical reaction creates the odor.
Hygiene Is the First Line of Defense
More often than not, stepping up your hygiene is all you need. Shower at least once or twice a day. Use antibacterial soap. This kills bacteria. It prevents yeast growth on the skin’s surface.
There is a catch. You must towel off thoroughly. Damp crevices are breeding grounds. Moisture invites the bacteria back.
If extra-strength deodorant hasn’t solved the issue, it is time for a dermatologist. They can prescribe something with a heavier punch. Options vary.
- Powders with anti-yeast properties.
- High-strength deodorants.
- Topical anti-sweat creams for concentrated areas.
Botox injections under the arms have shown real results in severe cases. If you fear needles, take heart. A topical cream containing Botox is in development. Experts at WebMD have noted this progress.
Treating Dry Skin Properly
Now that you are smelling better, tackle the dry skin. Overly dry skin looks reddened. It itches. It flakes. It gets bumpy, cracked, or irritated.
Many men think a tub of lotion is enough. It is not. You need a strategy.
Ditch irritating bar soaps. Drop scented lotions and detergents. Switch to gentler versions. Focus on hydrating problem areas. Shoulders, elbows, legs, knees, and feet dry out easily.
Avoid hot showers or baths. Heat strips natural oils. Limit excessive sun exposure. Watch out for harsh elements. Low-humidity, climate-controlled environments are enemies. They pull moisture from your skin.
If the dryness persists, see a dermatologist. It could be a sign of complex medical issues. Psoriasis. Hypothyroidism. Eczema. These require diagnosis and specific treatment.
Stop trying to link the two problems. Dry skin does not cause body odor. Bacteria do. Hygiene handles the bacteria. Proper care handles the dryness. Keep it simple.
