The Science of Body and Oral Odor, and Novel Deodorant Materials

Abstract

Human body odor is colorless, transparent, and intangible, making it perceptible to animals, including humans, through the sense of smell rather than vision. In the natural world, body odor, manifested through pheromones, plays a crucial role as a communication tool for inter-species interactions, such as territorial behavior and mate selection, among wildlife. On the other hand, body odor in humans is generally associated with an unpleasant smell that creates a negative impression. Another olfactory aspect emanating from humans, namely bad breath or halitosis, can elicit particularly strong discomfort in close face-to-face encounters. Body odor and bad breath are challenging for individuals to self-identify, with many being unaware of their own strong odor, which can negatively impact interpersonal relationships. Conversely, some individuals experience olfactory reference syndrome, wherein they harbor excessive fear or anxiety about their own body odor. Addressing these concerns requires the development of effective methods for evaluating and analyzing body odor and bad breath, understanding the factors contributing to their occurrence, and proposing appropriate solutions. This paper discusses the mechanisms underlying the generation of body odor and bad breath, incorporating the research findings, and delves into the development of novel deodorizing materials to address these olfactory challenges.