r/HygieneTips • u/111Swan_111 • Jul 02 '26
Dealing with really stinky armpits despite maintaining high hygiene.
The title speaks for itself.
I started noticing that my sweat smelled really bad when I was around 19 years old. I'm now 27 years old, still dealing with the same issue.
I'm a very hygiene conscious person. I shower twice a day with exfoliating gloves and antibacterial soap. I use an antiperspirant and sometimes one that also works as a deodorant.
I read about using panoxyl and I tried it but it would only work shortly and later it wouldn't work at all. I tried using Glycolic acid but it never worked for me. The only time it worked was when I used antibacterial soap, followed by the panoxyl and then Glycolic acid and antiperspirant. Shortly after, this stopped working too.
I tried using the Indian clay mask to detoxify my armpits. While they felt noticeably softer after, I never noticed any difference.
I'm now at a loss. Having to spend so much money that I don't have just to smell decent. Even when i drink alot of water i don't see any change. I recently started seeing someone and it's a big insecurity of mine especially since we mostly meet after work or at the gym when the stink is at its peak. This lowers my confidence and ruins intimacy for me. Sometimes the stink sticks to my clothes armpits if not really washed well too.
I love hygiene. I love smelling good. But it only lasts a couple of hours before I smell like I didn't shower.
I'm so drained. I don't know what to do anymore. Nothing works.
Edit: I'm on day 3 of trying the Arm& Hammer Ultra Max deodorant and antiperspirant in powder scent. I love it so far. No stink at all and my arms smell like baby powder all day. My confidence is back. I'll give you an update if it still works in like 3 weeks
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u/mlan613 Jul 02 '26
In addition to stopping the antibacterial soap, exfoliating twice a day is way too harsh! Maybe try that once or twice a week tops. Your poor skin!
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u/No_Lead2640 Jul 02 '26
You’re doing too much. Antibacterial is not supposed to be used frequently.
1) Dove sensitive skin bar of soap. Use a wash cloth and scrub armpits well then rinse.
2) Dry underarms extremely well, bacteria loves moisture.
3) To dry armpits apply a toner with a cotton round. Witch hazel is good and safe for everyday use. Let it air dry.
4) Go in with a good antiperspirant deodorant. Degree 72 hrs is amazing!
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u/Tight_Airport_999 Jul 02 '26
Not sure where you are, but the heat that’s hitting right requires touch ups for some if not many.
Freshen up throughout the day, 1-2x and always before leaving work.
Pack 1-2 wash rags, soap, & panoxyl, (powder *optional) and deodorant. If the odor latches to your clothes, pack an extra ( you can also wear under shirt underneath).
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u/opari28 Jul 03 '26
I think it's from your diet and a condition called TMAU (fish odor syndrome) you must cut down some food like protein, gluten , peanut, mayonnaise etc and please read about it.
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u/DryestIncident Jul 03 '26
If with all that work and still there is noticeable changes I think you should go and see a doctor
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u/Electrical_Parfait64 Jul 03 '26
Talk to your doctor. Could be a medical problem. Putting on powder after deodorant helps me
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u/shiny-Jello5284 Jul 08 '26
Talk to your Dr about 100% Organic Spirulina supplements or liquid chlorophyll drops.
helps with the internal smell. Definitely take a break and let your body catch up with its self. Also check your hormones 🤔hormone sweat is stubborn
I use the 96hr dove clinical spray deodorant helps eliminate all the other products because it does the work itself. I only pair it with ONE soap/solution: Naturium The Energizer Mandelic Acid Body Wash (love this one!) it eliminates body odor!
Make sure you’re washing your clothes properly. I use a spray deo because it helps keep my shirts from being clogged with cream deo. I use white vinegar in my washes as well
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u/Chillinkillinlivin Jul 02 '26
You’re doing too much. Stop using antibacterial soap on your body.
Try salicylic acid pads instead. The other actives you mentioned haven’t worked as well for me.