Can Eczema Cause Body Odor? A Dermatologist Explains

If you’ve noticed a strange smell coming from your skin during an eczema flare-up, you’re not imagining it. That change in scent is real, and you’re not alone in wondering why it happens. Many people ask, “Can eczema cause body odor?” The answer is yes. Eczema can change the way your body smells.

Understanding the Link Between Eczema and Body Odor

Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, itching, dryness, and inflammation. It can appear anywhere on your body and often comes and goes in cycles. But what many people don’t talk about is how eczema can affect your body odor.

Here’s what happens. Your skin acts as a barrier. It locks in moisture and keeps out bacteria and irritants. When you have eczema, that barrier breaks down. That means it’s easier for bacteria to grow and harder for your skin to stay balanced. The result: odor.

This connection between eczema and body odor is more common than you might think. You might notice a musty, sour, or slightly “wet” smell during a flare-up. That’s not sweat. It’s your skin reacting to inflammation and bacterial imbalance.

Why Does Eczema Smell? A Look at the Causes

There are a few reasons why eczema can change your body’s natural scent. These include:

• Bacterial overgrowth: Eczema-prone skin is more likely to be colonized by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria break down sweat and skin oils into compounds that smell.
• Skin inflammation: Inflammation disrupts your skin’s pH and microbiome. That’s a fancy way of saying your skin becomes unbalanced, which can lead to odor.
• Excess moisture: Eczema can trap moisture in the folds of your skin, especially in warm areas like your armpits or behind your knees. That damp environment helps bacteria grow.

This combination of factors creates what many people describe as “eczema smell symptoms.” It’s not all in your head. It’s your skin responding to inflammation and irritation.

Skin Conditions That Cause Odor: Eczema Isn’t the Only One

While eczema is a common culprit, it’s not the only skin condition that can cause odor. Others include:

• Psoriasis: Like eczema, it causes inflammation and skin breakdown that can lead to odor.
• Intertrigo: This happens in warm, moist areas and often smells sour or musty.
• Fungal infections: These can grow in skin folds and give off a strong odor.

But if you’re dealing with both eczema and body odor, chances are the two are connected. Especially if the odor gets worse during a flare-up and improves when your skin calms down.

Body Odor from Skin Inflammation: What’s Going On?

Inflamed skin doesn’t function the same way healthy skin does. It’s more porous, more sensitive, and more prone to infection. That means your skin may not shed dead cells properly. It may also trap sweat and bacteria under the surface.

All of this leads to odor. And the more severe your eczema, the more likely it is to smell. This is especially true if your eczema is infected, which can create a stronger, more unpleasant scent.

What Does Eczema Smell Like?

If you’ve ever asked, “Why does eczema smell?” you’re not alone. People with eczema often describe the scent in different ways:

• Musty
• Sweet and sour
• Like damp laundry
• Like ammonia or vinegar

The smell can vary depending on the location of the flare-up and whether there’s an infection. If your eczema is oozing or crusting, that can also affect how it smells.

When to Talk to a Doctor

If you notice a strong, persistent odor coming from your eczema, it might be a sign of infection. Look for these warning signs:

• Yellow or green discharge
• Fever or chills
• Increased redness or swelling
• Pain or tenderness

These symptoms mean it’s time to call your doctor. In some cases, you may need antibiotics or a stronger treatment to clear the infection and reduce the odor.

Eczema Odor Remedies That Actually Work

The good news is you can manage eczema-related body odor. Here are some dermatologist-approved tips:

1. Keep Skin Clean, but Don’t Overwash

Wash your skin daily with a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser. Avoid scrubbing or using hot water, which can make eczema worse. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

2. Use Moisturizers That Support the Skin Barrier

Look for creams with ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, or hyaluronic acid. These help repair your skin’s barrier and reduce the chance of odor-causing bacteria taking hold.

3. Try Magnesium-Based Deodorants

Magnesium isn’t just for underarms. It helps balance your skin’s pH and neutralize odor. MAGS Skin uses magnesium hydroxide, a gentle ingredient that fights odor without irritating sensitive skin.

4. Wear Breathable Clothing

Choose cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics. Avoid tight clothes that trap sweat and heat, especially during a flare-up.

5. Avoid Triggers That Make Eczema Worse

Common triggers include stress, allergens, harsh soaps, and certain foods. Keeping a journal can help you track flare-ups and identify what’s causing them.

Can Eczema Odor Be Treated Long-Term?

Yes. With the right skincare routine, you can manage both your eczema and its odor. The key is consistency. Treat your skin gently. Use products designed for sensitive or eczema-prone skin. And don’t ignore the signs of infection or irritation.

For many people, switching to a magnesium-based deodorant is a game-changer. It controls odor without clogging pores or irritating skin. That means less odor and fewer flare-ups.

Quick Takeaways: Eczema and Body Odor

• Yes, eczema can cause body odor. The odor comes from bacteria, inflammation, and excess moisture.
• It’s more common than you think. Many people with eczema notice changes in how their skin smells.
• Odor can be managed. Gentle skincare, the right deodorant, and breathable clothing can help.
• See a doctor if the smell is strong or new. It could mean your eczema is infected.

Final Thoughts on Eczema Related Body Odor

Eczema affects more than just your skin’s appearance. It can also change the way your body smells. But that doesn’t mean you have to live with it. By understanding the link between eczema and body odor, you can take steps to manage both.

Use gentle, skin-friendly products. Keep your skin clean and moisturized. And don’t be afraid to ask for help if something feels off. Your skin deserves care, not judgment. And you deserve to feel fresh, comfortable, and confident flare-up or not.