Does glycolic acid help with body odor?

Why could glycolic acid reduce odor?

Sweat itself does not smell. Body odor develops when bacteria on the skin interact with sweat; bacteria also break down skin oils and keratin, a protein in the outer skin. Glycolic acid exfoliates dead surface cells, so it addresses one part of that process. Exfoliation is one option for managing odor where keratin breaks down, rather than a complete treatment for every cause of body odor.234

Should you use glycolic acid or antiperspirant?

If wet underarms are the main problem, choose an antiperspirant. Deodorants target odor through fragrance, sweat absorbing ingredients or ingredients that target bacteria; antiperspirants reduce sweat production. An exfoliant and an antiperspirant have different jobs, even if social media has given them the same job title. Look for "antiperspirant" on the packaging and apply it to dry skin after bathing and before bed.25

Heavy sweating does not automatically mean strong odor, and strong odor does not automatically mean heavy sweating. The bacteria present and their interaction with sweat matter too. If you are not struggling with excessive sweating or troublesome odor and simply want to try an acid, a gentle trial is reasonable. Start with a lower concentration rather than treating strength as a reason to buy.12

How do you use glycolic acid on your body?

1. 1Choose a lower concentration product and ease into use. For underarms, a body or face wash containing glycolic acid is a cautious starting option.
2. 2Use the wash in the shower, then rinse your underarms thoroughly so product does not remain in the folds all day.
3. 3If you choose a body treatment that stays on the skin instead, follow that product's directions rather than borrowing instructions from a wash.
4. 4Stop using glycolic acid if the treated skin becomes irritated. Be especially cautious with sensitive skin.

For example, The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick goes directly onto clean, dry concern areas and does not need rinsing. The brand directs you to start two to three times a week, increasing to daily use only if tolerated; morning or evening use is allowed. Those are body exfoliation directions, not an odor specific schedule.4

For that stick, wait at least eight hours after hair removal, avoid irritated or broken skin, and cover treated areas with sunscreen before sun exposure. If using the brand's body duo, apply the glycolic stick to concern areas and its PHA Body Water Cream to other areas, not together on the same patches.4

What else helps with body odor?

Wash odor prone areas with soap at least twice a day and dry thoroughly. Change and wash clothes regularly, and remove sweaty clothing. Clean clothes are part of odor control, which is less marketable than a new acid but still useful. Loose clothing and natural fabrics such as cotton can help. A pharmacist can suggest stronger antiperspirants or gentler soap substitutes if your current routine is not working.36

When should you see a doctor?

Arrange a medical appointment if odor persists despite self care and affects your self esteem, your usual smell changes, or you suddenly sweat much more. New, widespread odor involving breath or urine also deserves assessment. Body odor can have causes beyond surface bacteria, including infections, medicines and underlying conditions. Treatment should address the cause rather than simply adding more exfoliation.236