Perspiration

The body's natural heat controlling, air conditioning system, this is the liquid produced by the sweat glands regularly appearing in armpits and groin, and after exercise or specific stimulation of the body temperature (from a sauna, for instance) occurring all over the body. The liquid is odourtess but, if constricted by clothing or trapped by a fold of skin or joint, will quickly form bacteria; it is this that smells. When fresh, this smell is considered quite attractive by some, but, if allowed to become stale or dry into clothes that are worn again before being washed or cleaned, it is always unpleasant. Fat people perspire more than thin and a diet will obviously help; others come out in a 'cold sweat' from fear or emotional stress, often around the hairline and across the forehead.

Excessive non induced sweating needs medical treatment. There are excellent antiperspirants and deodorant antiperspirants on the market, but as perspiring is a very important part of the body's natural cooling system, you should use the mildest antiperspirant you can. Everyone differs in how much they sweat and, of course, it is a real problem for some: those who sweat excessively need the strongest possible deterrent, but most people just need a little help to control the flow and prevent a bad smell.