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The science behind ‘old people smell’ and why showers aren’t enough


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Many people have on social media about the so -called “old smell older adults.

This phenomenon is more science As a stigma, experts say.

“I think we all know this smell,” said Dr. Dan Wesson, Professor at the University of Florida College of Medicine, to Fox News Digital.

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“Some describe it as dusty, like an old book. Others as oily or greasy. None of them are of course flattering descriptions, and therefore this is not the kind of smell with which they want to describe a person,” he noted.

Woman holds her nose for smell.

Many people have posted on social media about the so -called “old smell smells”, which are described as a weakly musty or greasy fragrance, sometimes connected to older adults. (IStock)

The biology of aging and body odor

The skin is the largest organ in the body, so it makes sense that, according to Wesson, they subjected significant changes.

For most of our lives, the body odor comes from sweat, bacteria and dead skinthat can be treated with basic hygiene. With aging, changes in skin composition and oil production make the smell more complex, the expert said.

“Dowing cells collect damage over time,” he said – and these damaged cells can release connections that make a smell.

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An important culprit is 2-non, a connection that arises from the lipid oxidation. This is the process of fats in the cells that break off due to imbalances in the body, such as studies.

This connection is unique for the aging skin and has a greasy. Cardboard-like smell.

Older woman who attracts perfume

During most of our lives, the body odor comes from sweat, bacteria and dead skin that can be addressed. But when we get older, that changes. (IStock)

With regular hygiene practices, “by the nature of its fat composition” is not easy to wash off with regular hygiene practices, said Wesson.

“That is why the management of this body smell requires more complex solutions,” he said.

Wesson suggests watching a more holistic approach through food Antioxidant -rich foods How fruit and vegetables remain hydrated and use antioxidant skin care.

Other factors

Some medication – including those for High cholesterolADHD or depression – could also affect the metabolism of the body and sweating and, according to Wesson, contribute to the smell.

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Hormones can also influence how people smell. After menopause, women often have changes in skin and fragrance due to the decreasing estrogen level, as studies show.

“However, hormone replacement therapy can ward off some changes that can change body odor. [HRT] is not without risks and should be discussed carefully with your doctor“, Said Wesson.

Older person who pours pills in hand.

Some medication – including those for high cholesterol, ADHD or depression – could also contribute to the smell. (IStock)

Olfactory red flags

Not all changes are normal, experts warn.

“A sudden change in the body odor can be a warning sign of an underlying one Health problem“Wesson warned.

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Diseases such as cancer and dementia, for example, can change body chemistry and fragrance.

“If your loved ones report a sudden change, you should consult your doctor,” advised Wesson.

Older couple hugged.

“If your loved ones report a sudden change, you should consult your doctor,” advised a medical expert. (IStock)

Some people may worry about how they smell, even if others would not notice it. This concern could result from Parosmie, a distorted sense of smell or olfactory hallucinations, in which unpleasant smells imagine.

“People can perceive smells that are not there at all,” said Wesson. “It is important to consider whether it is a real smell or just a change in perception.”

You can find more health articles under inspection www.foxnews.com/health

This condition can be managed by understanding the biology behind the age -related smell and the proactive approach to health and skin care, say experts.



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