The Biology of Body Odor
Understanding the fascinating science behind what makes us smell
Body odor isn't caused by sweat itself—fresh sweat is nearly odorless. The smell comes from a complex biological process where bacteria on our skin break down proteins and fats from specific glands.
The Glands Behind Sweat
Eccrine Glands
Your body's primary cooling system. Found everywhere, they release watery, salty sweat that's thin, odorless, and evaporates to cool you down.
Apocrine Glands
Located near hair follicles, active from puberty. They release thick, protein and fat-rich fluid—the primary food source for odor-causing bacteria.
How Odor is Created
Odorless Sweat
Proteins & Fats
Skin Bacteria
Natural Microbiome
Body Odor
Volatile Compounds
Myth Busters
Let's clear the air about common misconceptions
Myth: Sweat itself is stinky
Fresh sweat from both eccrine and apocrine glands is virtually odorless. The smell only develops when bacteria metabolize the compounds within the sweat.
Myth: More sweat always equals more odor
Odor intensity depends on the type of bacteria and chemical composition of your sweat, not volume. Some people sweat heavily with little odor, while others sweat less but smell stronger.