Many people are familiar with it — a distinctive body odor that tends to appear with age. While often discussed with discomfort, and sometimes through an ageist lens, the phenomenon is in fact biological, caused by physiological changes in the skin, sweat and cellular composition over time.
Experts stress that it’s a natural process, not something to be ashamed of. Yet, understanding what drives it — and how to minimize or soften its effects — can help older adults and those around them approach it with more awareness and respect.
The science behind the scent
According to Dr. Lehavit Akerman, dermatologist and chair of the Israeli Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the change in odor isn’t random.
“There isn’t one definitive scientific explanation, but we do know that body odor changes with age — and you can smell it,” she explains. “Just as puberty brings a hormonal explosion that affects body scent, aging also brings its own shift. The body undergoes cellular aging — cells known as ‘zombie cells’ that can no longer repair themselves begin to poison their surroundings.”
As we age, the skin loses some of its ability to renew itself and eliminate waste compounds, leading to the buildup of fatty substances, altered sweat composition and sometimes an overgrowth of bacteria or fungi — all of which can contribute to a stronger or distinct smell.
The chemical culprit: 2-Nonenal
One key compound behind this scent is 2-nonenal, formed when unsaturated fatty acids in skin cells oxidize.
This oily, volatile molecule — described as having a “stale cardboard” or “grassy” scent — is notoriously difficult to wash off with normal hygiene routines.
Dr. Lehavit AkermanPhoto: Alon Shafranski“With age, the composition of skin lipids changes,” Dr. Akerman says. “These unsaturated fatty acids oxidize, producing compounds like 2-nonenal that emit a distinctive, often sharp odor.”
Not every odor is a sign of illness, she adds, but sudden or unusual smells warrant a medical check. “Strong, atypical body odor may signal hormonal tumors or neurological conditions that alter body chemistry,” she cautions.
How diet and hydration play a role
Clinical dietitian Meital Levy of Leumit Health Services notes a clear link between nutrition and body odor — including among older adults.
“Hydration is the foundation,” she says. “Older people tend to drink less, partly to avoid frequent urination, which concentrates body odors.”
Meital LevyA diet too low in calories or carbohydrates can lead to ketone buildup, giving the body a sweet, acidic smell.
“Among seniors who eat too little, the body starts breaking down fat for energy — that intensifies odor,” Levy explains.
Spicy foods, garlic, onions, curry, turmeric and high-sodium diets can all make odors stronger. “As taste sensitivity declines with age, people often add more salt and seasoning, which worsens the issue,” she says.
In contrast, a plant-rich diet helps. “Natural, unprocessed foods are best,” Levy advises. “Green vegetables, legumes, nuts and raw almonds are high in antioxidants that help the skin fight fat oxidation and neutralize unpleasant smells.”
She also points to lifestyle factors: “Some people simply don’t notice odors — they don’t change clothes often, skip ventilation or avoid air conditioning. Gut health also matters; changes in the microbiome can influence body odor, and probiotics sometimes help rebalance it.”
Keeping skin — and scent — healthy
Managing age-related body odor goes beyond soap and water. Dr. Akerman recommends paying attention to areas prone to moisture — such as underarms, groin and between toes — through gentle cleansing, thorough drying and wearing breathable fabrics like cotton.
“Shower once or twice a day, but avoid very hot water, which dries the skin,” she says. “Synthetic fabrics, tight shoes and infrequent laundry can all worsen odors.”
For excess sweating, she suggests simple drying creams, such as baby paste, to absorb moisture.
Certain medications — including those for cholesterol, depression or ADHD — can alter body odor by affecting metabolism and sweat chemistry. Hormonal changes, especially in postmenopausal women due to declining estrogen, also play a role.
“When infection is suspected, combined creams containing antifungal, antibacterial and mild steroid ingredients can help,” Dr. Akerman adds — “but only after proper medical diagnosis.”