What Causes Underarm Body Odor (Foxing)?

Axillary Bromhidrosis

Axillary bromhidrosis, also known as axillary hyperhidrosis accompanied by osmidrosis, stems from various factors including genetics, dietary habits, hormonal imbalances, and local irritation. Here are the primary causes:

1. Genetics

Axillary hyperhidrosis with osmidrosis tends to run in families. If both or one of the parents have this condition, the risk of the offspring developing it significantly increases.

2. Dietary Habits

Frequent consumption of spicy and pungent foods, such as chili peppers and garlic, can lead to increased axillary sweating, thereby triggering axillary hyperhidrosis with osmidrosis.

3. Hormonal Imbalances

Prolonged mental stress or irregular sleeping habits can disrupt the body's hormonal balance, affecting normal metabolic functions and leading to excessive axillary sweating, which can further induce axillary hyperhidrosis with osmidrosis.

4. Local Irritation

Wearing tight or non-breathable clothing can cause friction or compression in the axillary region, resulting in skin damage, clogged hair follicles, and increased sweating. This can also lead to a noticeable odor.

Ignoring personal hygiene, failing to change clothes promptly, or inadequately cleaning the axillary area can promote bacterial growth, leading to infection and potentially causing axillary hyperhidrosis with osmidrosis.