What should you know about body odour after shower?

Sweat is usually not strongly scented when it leaves the body. Odour develops when skin microorganisms break down sweat and other substances, especially in warm, moist areas such as the underarms, groin, and feet. A quick wash may leave moisture in folds, or bacteria and odour may remain in towels, bras, shirts, or sportswear.

A sudden change can also accompany excessive sweating, an irritated skin fold, fungal infection, or another medical issue. The location, timing, associated rash, and whether the smell is new help a clinician work out the cause.

Clean the underarms and other sweaty areas gently, rinse well, and dry thoroughly, including between folds. Put on freshly washed, fully dry clothes and change towels regularly. Apply antiperspirant to dry skin, often in the evening, according to the product directions; deodorant mainly masks odour rather than reducing sweat.

If sweating continues to break through these measures, ask about [Prescription Antiperspirant](/treatments/medical-dermatology/prescription-antiperspirant/) or [Botox For Sweating](/treatments/injectables/botulinum-toxin-for-hyperhidrosis/). More general information is available under [Body Odour](/symptoms/body-odour/).

Arrange medical advice when odour returns after thorough washing for several weeks, interferes with daily life, or comes with itching, scaling, pain, broken skin, a lump, or unusual discharge. Get urgent help for rapidly spreading redness, severe tenderness, fever, or feeling very unwell.

Ask whether the smell suggests excess sweating, an inflamed skin fold, or infection, and whether any medication or supplement could contribute. Bring details about the body site, laundry products, antiperspirant use, and accompanying skin changes.