Does shaving armpits reduce smell?

Author: Soledad Rolfson  |  Last update: Thursday, December 4, 2025

Does shaving your armpits reduce body odor? Yes, shaving can help reduce body odor. Hair provides a breeding ground for bacteria, which break down sweat and produce odor. Removing hair can decrease this bacterial activity.

Does shaving armpits remove odor?

Yes, removing armpit hair, whether through shaving, waxing, or laser hair removal, can potentially reduce body odor. Armpit hair can trap and hold onto sweat, creating an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to the development of body odor.

Is shaving your armpits more hygienic?

Comments Section No, not in the slightest. Shaving armpits is just done for aesthetic reasons, there are no hygienic benefits. As long as you wash your armpits regularly you are fine, no matter if they are shaved or not. And shaving them makes you sweat much more and makes the skin more irritated due to chafing.

Does shaving get rid of odor?

Reduced Bacteria: Hair can trap sweat and bacteria. Shaving may reduce the amount of hair, which can lead to less odor since there is less surface area for bacteria to thrive.

How do I stop my armpits from smelling?

Do
  1. wash your armpits, groin and feet at least twice a day with soap and dry thoroughly.
  2. shave your armpits regularly.
  3. use antiperspirants and deodorants.
  4. change and wash your clothes regularly.
  5. wear natural fabrics like cotton, wool and silk.
  6. wear antibacterial socks.

Stink Alert: Understanding the Reasons Behind Smelly Armpits

Why do my armpits still stink after a shower?

If you're not rinsing off your soap or body wash completely, it can mix with sweat and bacteria, creating a perfect storm for odor.

Why do I smell bad even with good hygiene down there?

A strong vaginal odor may be a sign of vaginitis, or it may be a temporary smell related to your hygiene, lifestyle or other changes. Take note of whether you have other symptoms. If the odor is related to an infection, you'll usually notice other changes, like vaginal itching, burning and discharge.

Do you smell more if you don't shave?

Hair growth has nothing to do with body odor

Shaving your underarms or letting that hair growth has no impact on whether you smell or not. Aigen explains that sweat is released from sweat glands regardless of if there is hair there or not, and is odorless until it comes into contact with bacteria.

Is it better to wax or shave your armpits?

Shaving involves trimming the hair right at skin level, so the root is intact and the hair just has to grow a little bit for it to break through your skin again. That usually takes anywhere from a few days to a week. On the other hand, waxing pulls your hair out at the root, so it takes longer for the hair to regrow.

Does shaving help with odor down there?

If you sense a little body odor, it's because your pubic hair is doing its job of trapping sweat, oil, and bacteria. To care for your pubic area, all you need to do is regularly rinse with water. Long story short, there is nothing dirty or unclean about pubic hair. There is no medical reason to remove it.

Is it healthier to not shave armpits?

The reality: shaving, or not, likely has no effect on how much we sweat. "Sweat is controlled by sweat glands, located under your armpits and do not correspond with the hair follicles," explains Dr. Amin. "Shaving does not affect the number of sweat glands on your underarms.

Does unshaved armpit smell?

Bacteria love warm and moist places - like underarms! If you have hair under your arms, sweat (which is odourless) and bacteria can get more easily trapped in the hair, which when mixed can lead to smelly underarms.

What countries don't shave pubic hair?

Japan: Women in Japan have preferred to shave only their legs and underarms, leaving the bikini and pubic area untouched. It is also quite common to remove facial hair and peach fuzz for a smooth, glass-like appearance.

Why do my armpits smell more when I don't shave?

Personal hygiene and lifestyle

Focus on the areas where you sweat the most, like your armpits and groin area. Removing some of the bacteria on your skin regularly can prevent unpleasant body odor. Keep your armpits shaved, so sweat evaporates quickly and doesn't have as much time to interact with bacteria.

How do I tell if I smell bad?

Smell every part of your clothing and look for wet spots where you've been sweating. Sweat usually means you've become a love environment for bacteria growth, and bacteria is what gives off the stench. Go by the golden rule of body odor: If you can smell any odor on yourself at all, others can smell it a lot more.

Does shaving balls reduce odor?

Shaving your pubic area allows for better ventilation, reducing odour from sweat and bacteria buildup. It also makes cleaning easier, leaving you feeling fresher and more comfortable throughout the day.

Will I smell better if I shave my armpits?

Does shaving your armpits reduce body odor? Yes, shaving can help reduce body odor. Hair provides a breeding ground for bacteria, which break down sweat and produce odor. Removing hair can decrease this bacterial activity.

What are the disadvantages of waxing?

Waxing can be an excellent option for managing unwanted hair. However, it can result in side effects, like pain, infections, and ingrown hairs. To prevent or reduce the risk of side effects, be sure to choose an esthetician carefully, prepare your skin beforehand, and soothe it afterward.

How to get rid of underarm smell?

How to get rid of body odour and armpit smell
  1. Hygiene and Cleansing. Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. ...
  2. Use Antibacterial Soap. ...
  3. Shaving and Hair Removal. ...
  4. Stay Hydrated. ...
  5. Wear Loose, Breathable Fabrics. ...
  6. Dietary Alterations. ...
  7. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol. ...
  8. Manage Stress Levels.

Why do my armpits smell even after a shower?

Apocrine glands, located in areas like the armpits and groin, secrete a thicker fluid that, when broken down by bacteria on the skin, can produce a strong odour. One of the most common causes of smelly armpits in the breakdown of this sweat by bacteria.

Is plucking armpit hair bad?

Plucking may be a quick and easy way to remove unwanted body hair, but it isn't always the safest or most effective. And plucking underarm hair is no exception. Plucking underarm hair can be painful, time-consuming, and if done incorrectly, can cause irritation, ingrown hairs, or scarring.

Why do I smell fishy after he came in me?

Vaginal odour and sex

During exercise and sexual activity, it is normal for the genitals to get sweaty and this may contribute to a stronger vaginal odour. However, if you notice a stronger fishy smelling odour after sex, it could be an infection called bacterial vaginosis (BV).

What foods make you taste the best?

According to the Kinsey Institute, fruit (especially citrus, bananas, and papayas), spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and peppermint, among others), parsley, wheatgrass, and celery up the flavor of semen. Cigarettes, caffeine, red meat, onions, and garlic make it taste worse.

How to cure body odor permanently?

The following suggestions may help:
  1. Bathe daily. Regular bathing, especially with an antibacterial soap, reduces the growth of bacteria on your skin.
  2. Choose clothing to suit your activity. For daily wear, choose natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool and silk. ...
  3. Try relaxation techniques. ...
  4. Change your diet.

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