How to smell even decent?

[u/Flyin_Fork]

Hi all, first post here. I have struggled a lot with my hygiene in the past years. I even have had numerous comments that I just actually smell bad, and it's taking a toll on my mental health now. Currently I shower 6/7 times per week with body wash and shampoo (shampoo 2/3x a week). I put on some nivea antitranspirant before going out the door, but when I smell my armpits it smells horrible. I have no idea what to do?? My brother and dad use the exact same stuff and they smell fine so i have no idea what the problem is.

[u/Naive-Special-7526]

You have a lot of bacteria under your armpits - the bad kind of bacteria that causes the smell. Use a benzoyl peroxide wash in the area, leave for five minutes, then use a regular body wash. Also stop using antiperspirant, use a regular deodorant that allows you to sweat. I swear by rexona (not sure where you live and if this is available for you). I would not go for a natural deodorant now. You can also do a glycolic acid wipe a few times a week. Stick with a very simple routine, once your natural bio stabilizes you can use a natural deodorant.

[u/Lazaraleen → u/Naive-Special-7526]

This is it. This kind of bacteria can also transfer to your clothes and washing your clothes will not help if you wash at 30-40°C. If your clothes smell bad once the bacteria is activated by your body heat, soak them in a vinegar and warm water mix over night and then wash them the next day.

It doesn't matter how often you shower per day, if you clothes carry the smell the bacteria is then transferred to your armpits.

Also, I don't know if you have body hair in your armpits. The hair can carry the bacteria much more easily, so I recommend to at least trim this hair.