Research has proven that the way someone smells can actually influence social opinions concerning their health, cleanliness, emotional state, and even sexual orientation.
With evidence like this, people are taking far more than just your appearance into consideration when you go out on that first date, have a job interview, or even strike up a conversation on your morning commute.
So, how can you be sure you are sending the right impression and eliminating body odor?
Lucky for you, we’ve got the tips and tricks you need when it comes to how to smell better. Follow along for 9 no-fail ways to ensure your scent is fresh and suitable for any occasion.
1. Drink Up
We already know that an adult body is made up of 60% water, but did you know that drinking the liquid of life can actually impact your scent?
Beyond keeping your body healthy and functioning in top shape, drinking water is essential for regulating your hormones and in turn, your body odor. Dehydration can cause less moisture in your sweat. While this sounds like it would make you sweat less, the unfortunate truth is that your sweat’s odor is actually more concentrated.
In addition to this, dehydration can cause foul smells to settle in your mouth, causing bad breath and embarrassing interactions.
2. Correct Your Diet
Your diet is another element that impacts your natural scent just as much as your health. Eating foods that are high in fat and sugar can cause weight gain, acne, decreased body function, and of course, unpleasant body odor.
Luckily, cutting down on these foods and introducing high-fiber and water-containing foods can take your natural musk from yuck to wow.
It’s also important to note that certain foods will affect people differently. For example, some may experience a strong smell in their urine after consuming asparagus, while others notice no difference at all. Pay close attention to what foods impact your scent negatively and positively and keep those options stocked in your daily diet.
3. Find the Perfect Pairing
The perfume or cologne that smells great one person could actually turn out skunky on another. Because each of us has different body chemistry, it’s important to select a fragrance that pairs well with your skin to ensure the best aroma.
With fragrances spanning from woodsy to floral, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with the notes that compliment your make up and steer clear of those that have a poor reaction.
Don’t be afraid to ask for samples or try different colognes before settling on your signature scent.
4. Apply With Purpose
Now that you have your signature scent nailed down, you’ll need to know where to apply it. Different spots on your body actually enhance the smell of your perfume by releasing the fragrance when your temperature rises.
One of the best ways for how to smell better when you sweat is to apply fragrance to these hot spots. This includes your wrists, on the backs of your ears, and behind your knees.
Get strategic with your placement and reap the benefits of a sweet fragrance that lasts all day long.
5. Spritz Your Hairbrush
Washing your hair every day isn’t the best option for your strands but if you are noticing an unpleasant smell gathering on your non-shampoo days, this trick is for you.
Before you brush out your locks, give your hairbrush a spray with your perfume. This can either be your signature fragrance, or a specially selected cologne just for your hair.
This brush spritz will distribute the sweet scent over your hair without adding strange wet spots and concentration. This way, every time you turn your head or brush past a passer-by, your hair will release a fresh aroma and give the impression of a clean and healthy body.
6. Freshen Your Shoes
Your feet spend all day long trapped in layers of socks and shoes, causing them to sweat and gather bacteria in the damp, warm environment. This results in an unpleasant smell when you remove your shoes or even if your feet catch a breeze.
To keep your body smelling better from head to toe, give your shoes a freshen up by applying shoe fragrance before stepping in.
If you are concerned about going through too much of your personal fragrance, shopping wholesale cologne is a great way to keep the costs down and keep a consistent signature scent.
7. Launder With Care
The detergent you use can react with your body chemistry just the same as your perfume. Beyond this, some laundry detergents that are scent-free can actually leave your clothing smelling dirty and unwashed.
Instead of going for the bargain brand, be sure to choose a laundry soap that leaves a pleasant smell in your clothing. At the very least, ensure all odors and leftover bacteria are sufficiently eliminated when you return your clothing to the closet.
8. Choose Your Materials
The materials of your clothing can actually influence your scent as well. Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing may be stylish, but these materials can cause an excess of sweat and bacteria to built up, causing poor health and unwanted smells.
This is especially true when it comes to your underwear choices so be sure to keep airflow as a priority and choose breathable fabrics like cotton for everyday wear.
9. Be Prepared
Whether you are headed to the gym or out on a date, always come prepared by keeping a bottle of cologne and deodorant in your gym bag, car, or handbag to ensure you can freshen up on the go.
Just a quick spritz before a big meeting can influence your boss’s opinion of you and send a message of professionalism that a sweaty smell can rob you of.
Try These Tricks for How to Smell Better
Now that you know these 9 foolproof tips for how to smell better, you can take on the day with confidence. From making a better impression of keeping your health in check, use these tips to ensure your scent is elevating your life not holding you back.
Want more tips and tricks for your everyday life? Check out our other articles to discover the lifestyle hacks you need to know to get ahead.