How To Avoid Old Person Smell
“Old person smell,” also known as nonenal odor, is a natural scent that can develop with age due to changes in body chemistry. It’s not necessarily a hygiene issue but rather a biological one. Here’s how to reduce or avoid it:
🧬 1. Understand the Cause
- The scent comes primarily from 2-nonenal, a compound that increases with age, especially after 40.
- It’s linked to oxidation of skin lipids and decreased antioxidant production.
🧼 2. Improve Hygiene Habits
- Daily showers: Use gentle cleansers, especially ones with antibacterial or deodorizing properties.
- Exfoliate regularly: Helps remove dead skin cells where oils and 2-nonenal can accumulate.
- Focus on sebum-rich areas: back, neck, behind ears, chest, and armpits.
👃 3. Use the Right Products
- Look for soaps or body washes that specifically target nonenal (some Japanese brands like Mirai Clinical focus on this).
- Activated charcoal or green tea-based products can help neutralize odor naturally.
- Use natural deodorants with antibacterial ingredients (like tea tree oil, baking soda, or magnesium).
🧥 4. Launder Clothes and Linens Frequently
- Wash clothes, bed linens, and towels at least weekly.
- Use white vinegar or baking soda in the laundry to neutralize odor.
- Dry clothing thoroughly to prevent mildew.
🍎 5. Optimize Diet
- Reduce oxidative stress by eating antioxidant-rich foods:
- Berries, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, green tea
- Cut down on processed foods, red meats, and excessive sugar, which can contribute to body odor.
- Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.
🧃 6. Supplements
- Consider vitamin E, zinc, or omega-3s to improve skin health and reduce oxidative damage (consult your doctor first).
🌬 7. Ventilation
- Keep the living space well-ventilated. Stale air can amplify odors.
- Use air purifiers with activated carbon filters to remove odors from the environment.
🩺 8. Medical Check-ins
- Persistent or strong body odor could signal an underlying health issue (e.g., diabetes, liver/kidney issues).
- Regular check-ups can rule out or manage these conditions.