The science behind the “old man smell” and why showers aren’t enough
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Many people have posted on social media about what is called “the smell of an elderly man.” senior citizen.
This phenomenon is More Science More than stigma, experts say.
“I think we all know this smell,” Dr. Dan Wesson, a professor at the University of Florida School of Medicine, told Fox News Digital.
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“Some people describe it as dusty like an old book. Others say it’s oily or greasy. Of course, none of these are flattering explanations. That’s why this is not the kind of smell you want to label people,” he pointed out.
Many people post on social media about the so-called “old man’s smell,” which is sometimes described as a faint, musty or greasy scent associated with older people. (istock)
Biology of aging and body odor
Because the skin is the largest organ in the body, according to Wesson, it makes sense that it can make a big difference as the body ages.
For most of our lives, body odor is sweat, bacteria, and Dead skincan be dealt with with basic hygiene. However, due to aging, changes in skin composition and oil production make odors more complicated, experts pointed out.
“Skin cells accumulate damage over time,” he said — and those damaged cells can release that compound It contributes to the odor.
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Research shows that the two non-guts are the compounds that result from lipid oxidation, a process of fat in cells that have been broken due to body imbalances.
This compound is intrinsic to aging skin and is greasy. It smells like cardboard.
In most of our lives, body odor comes from sweat, bacteria and dead skin and can be dealt with. But as we age, that changes. (istock)
2-Nonale is not easily washed away by regular hygiene practices due to the nature of its fat composition,” Wesson said.
“This is why we need a more complicated solution to manage this body odor,” he said.
Wesson suggests taking a more holistic approach with eating Antioxidant-rich foods Like fruits and vegetables, use hydration and antioxidant skin care.
Other contributors
Some drugs – includes drugs High cholesterolADHD or Depression – According to Wesson, the body’s metabolism and how much sweating can affect how much you sweat.
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Hormones can also affect how people smell. Postmenopausal women often experience changes in skin and scent due to lower estrogen levels, studies have shown.
“Hormone replacement therapy can prevent some changes that can change the body’s odor, but (HRT) is not without risks and needs to be discussed carefully. With your doctor“Wesson said.
Some medications, including high cholesterol, ADHD, or depression, can also contribute to odor. (istock)
Olfactory red flag
All odor changes are not normal, experts warn.
“A sudden change in body odor can be an underlying warning sign Health issues“Wesson warned.
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For example, diseases such as cancer and dementia can alter the body’s chemistry and scent.
“If your loved one reports a sudden change, you should talk to your doctor,” advised Wesson.
“If your loved one reports a sudden change, you should talk to your doctor,” advised the medical expert. (istock)
Some may be worried about how they smell even when others don’t notice. That concern can stem from the imagined ultraviolet rays, distorted smell sensations, or olfactory hallucinations.
“People can perceive odors that aren’t there at all,” Wesson said. “It’s important to consider whether it’s a real smell or just a change in perception.”
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Experts say that understanding the biology behind age-related odors and a proactive approach to health and skin care can help manage this condition.