Andy Montoya
Body odour can be unpleasant and embarrassing, and one of the more unusual types is a cheesy smell. This is often a sign of yeast or fungal overgrowth on the skin, which is more likely to occur in skin folds, especially if you are carrying extra weight. This can be treated with anti-fungal shampoo or cream. However, the smell could also be caused by bacterial overgrowth, which can result from trapped moisture in skin folds, leading to intertrigo, a common skin condition.
Why do my skin folds smell like old cheese?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Skin-to-skin friction, intensified by heat and <co: 1,2,3,12>moisture |
| Symptoms | Red, bumpy rash, foul smell, pus-containing bumps, tender bumps |
| Treatment | Antifungal cream, antibacterial soap, antiperspirant cream, loose clothing, moisture-wicking fabrics, steroid cream, antiperspirant powder, skin barrier cream |
| Prevention | Hydration, diet, different deodorant, anti-fungal shampoo, body oil, real soap, laundry detergent |
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Skin-to-skin friction
The presence of moisture, often due to sweating, creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive, leading to potential infections. Candida, a type of yeast and fungus, is commonly associated with secondary infections in intertrigo cases. Intertrigo typically affects areas such as the neck creases, armpits, beneath or between the breasts, belly folds, buttocks, groin, inner thighs, and between the toes and fingers.
The friction and moisture in skin folds can cause the skin to break open, providing an entry point for bacteria and fungi. This can result in a bad odour, often described as cheesy or sour, similar to the smell of aged cheese due to the breakdown of sweat proteins by bacteria. The odour may also be influenced by factors such as diet, hygiene, and the specific bacteria present on the skin.
To manage skin-to-skin friction and its potential consequences, it is essential to keep the skin dry and reduce friction. This can be achieved by separating skin folds with clean gauze or dry towels, wearing loose clothing and moisture-wicking fabrics, and using antiperspirant creams or powders to minimise sweating. Additionally, creating a skin barrier with skin creams or ointments containing petroleum or zinc oxide can help reduce friction.
If the skin odour persists despite maintaining good hygiene and addressing skin-to-skin friction, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide a professional opinion and rule out any underlying health issues or infections that may require medical treatment.
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Yeast or fungal overgrowth
Body odour is often a result of digestive bacteria breaking down certain compounds in the body. Fecal body odour, in particular, can be an indicator of a metabolic disorder, a digestive condition, or a symptom of the overtaking of bad bacteria or
Yeast overgrowth, also known as candidiasis, is an infection caused by the overproduction of the fungus Candida. Candida is typically found in small amounts in the mouth, intestines, and on the skin. However, when Candida levels increase uncontrollably, it can cause infections in the body. Skin candidiasis can affect any part of the body, but areas that are warm and moist, such as the armpits and groin, are particularly prone to infection. Intertrigo, a common inflammatory skin condition, can also occur in these areas. It is caused by skin-to-skin friction, intensified by heat and moisture, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi like Candida to multiply.
The food you eat can play a role in maintaining the balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut and preventing yeast overgrowth. Foods high in sugar, refined grains, dairy products, processed meats, and alcohol may promote the growth of Candida. On the other hand, incorporating foods like garlic, which contains antifungal compounds, and coconut oil, which is high in lauric acid, may help fight Candida infections.
If you are experiencing a persistent foul odour in your skin folds, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment. They may recommend antifungal medications or suggest dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage the condition.
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Excessive sweating
Skin folds refer to areas of the body where the skin creases and rubs together, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. When these areas are frequently moist due to excessive sweating, a common skin condition called intertrigo can develop. Intertrigo is caused by skin-to-skin friction, intensified by heat and moisture, leading to inflammation, bacterial or fungal overgrowth, and a foul odour.
There are several ways to manage excessive sweating:
- Wear loose-fitting, light, and breathable clothing: Choose garments made from natural, absorbent materials like cotton to minimise sweat and allow your skin to breathe.
- Practice good foot hygiene: Wear socks that absorb moisture, and change your socks at least twice a day. Additionally, opt for leather shoes and alternate between different pairs of shoes to allow them to dry completely between wears.
- Avoid triggers: Refrain from consuming alcohol or eating spicy foods, as these can increase sweating.
- Topical treatments: Speak to a pharmacist about over-the-counter options, and consult your GP if you think another condition or medication could be causing your excessive sweating.
If lifestyle changes and at-home treatments do not provide sufficient relief, there are several medical options available:
- Iontophoresis: This treatment involves passing a weak electric current through water or a wet pad. It is believed to block sweat from reaching the skin's surface, and you can purchase a machine for at-home use after learning the technique.
- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections: Botox injections can be used to treat excessive sweating in the underarms, palms, and soles of the feet.
- Anticholinergic drugs: These are prescription medications that stop the activation of sweat glands but come with potential side effects such as blurred vision, heart palpitations, and dry mouth.
- Surgery: Surgical procedures for hyperhidrosis should only be considered as a last resort for severe cases that have not responded to other treatments. Surgeons may remove or destroy the sweat glands, or in the case of endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), cut the nerves that activate the sweat glands. However, ETS is irreversible and can have side effects like compensatory sweating, where sweating increases in other areas of the body.
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Poor hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene is essential to prevent body odour and skin infections. This includes regular bathing or showering, preferably once or twice a day, with soap and water. It is also important to dry off completely after washing, as moisture trapped in skin folds can lead to bacterial or fungal infections, such as intertrigo. Intertrigo is a common skin condition that occurs in warm, moist areas of the body where two skin surfaces rub or press against each other, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and inner thighs. The friction and moisture can cause skin damage, allowing bacteria and fungi to enter and cause an infection, resulting in an unpleasant odour.
To prevent and treat intertrigo, it is crucial to keep the affected area clean and dry. This can be done by gently washing the skin folds with mild soap and water, rinsing thoroughly, and drying the area completely, especially between skin folds. Using a hair dryer on a cool setting can help ensure the area is entirely dry. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or zinc oxide ointment to the clean, dry skin can also help reduce friction and create a protective barrier. Additionally, wearing loose-fitting clothing made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics can help keep the area dry and prevent further irritation.
In addition to maintaining proper hygiene, it is essential to address other potential contributors to body odour, such as diet and deodorant use. Eating certain foods, especially those high in spices or strong flavours, can affect body odour. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can also help with body odour as it keeps the body functioning optimally and flushes out toxins. Finally, using an effective deodorant or antiperspirant can help control sweat and odour. If the odour persists despite these measures, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions or infections.
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Diet
The smell of skin folds can vary depending on factors like diet, hygiene, and the bacteria present on the skin. A cheesy smell is a sign of yeast or fungal overgrowth on the skin. This is caused by skin-to-skin friction, which is made worse by heat and moisture. This often happens between skin folds or creases, where moisture gets trapped due to sweating, causing the skin surfaces to stick together.
To address the cheesy odor, it is recommended to examine your diet. Firstly, ensure you are well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid foods that are known to cause body odor, such as garlic and onions, and consider reducing your protein intake if it is high. Opt for a diet consisting of whole foods, such as chicken, beef, fish/seafood, rice, fruits, and vegetables.
Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial. Shower regularly, especially at night, and use anti-fungal soap or shampoo to address the yeast or fungal overgrowth. You can also apply anti-fungal cream to the affected skin folds.
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Frequently asked questions
The smell of old cheese could be due to a yeast or fungal infection, bacterial overgrowth, or a condition called intertrigo.
Intertrigo is a common and treatable skin condition that occurs in skin folds where skin rubs together, causing friction and inflammation. It is often accompanied by a foul smell.
Symptoms include a red, bumpy rash, pus-filled bumps, and tender, raised bumps. The affected area may also start to break down if it is very moist.
You can treat mild cases of intertrigo with over-the-counter steroid creams, antibacterial or antifungal creams, and ointments to reduce friction and prevent bacterial/fungal growth. However, if the condition persists, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.
Yes, maintaining good hygiene, staying hydrated, and wearing loose, moisture-wicking clothing can help manage odour. Using antiperspirants, body oils, and changing deodorants can also be beneficial.
