- It is caused due to the pattern and type of secretary glands
present on the skin surface.
- Sweat finds difficulty in
evaporating from the armpits, so it produces a characteristic odour in
that region.
- Bacteria are maximum in parts like the scalp, maxilla, genital areas and the
feet. This is the reason for the stingy odour in these area.
There is, on an average, loss of at least half a liter of sweat every day by
a normal person. During the summer season or after physical exercise
there is increase in the quantity of sweat.
Areas like the foot pose a problem because the sweat is trapped in socks and shoes.
Sweat has a slightly acidic smell.
Skin has three types of secretary glands. The function of sweat glands is to regulate the temperature and
they are most widely distributed on the skin. The porcine glands and
the sebaceous glands leave a limited supply of sweat on the armpits, genital area, nipples and
eyelids that is odourless.
The sebaceous glands are distributed all over the body except the palms and
soles. They secrete an oily lubricant known as sebum that contains cholesterol, fatty acids, waxes and
proteins and is odourless, but easily attracts bacteria. It
produces strong odours especially in the scalp area.
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