By | June 2, 2025

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.