Running is an awesome form of exercise. You get to be outside, you’re burning tons of calories, and you’re also toning your muscles at the same time. We all know that getting all hot and sweaty during a run isn’t always good for your body scent. If you want to keep up with your running routine, but still want to smell fresh afterward, you need to read this list. Here’s everything you’ve ever needed to smell lovely, even if you just got done running.
1. Try Using Baby Wipes to Get Rid of the Sweat
Baby wipes are perfect for quick clean-ups when you can’t hit the shower. You can wipe away all the sweat and the little bit of soap in the wipes helps remove germs and odor. Scented wipes leave behind a nice smell too. Carry a little container of baby wipes in your workout bag and you’ll be smelling fresh in no time.
2. Spritz on Some Body Spray
There are tons and tons of really great body sprays out there. In a pinch, they can mask sweaty odor and give you a fresh scent for the next couple of hours. I like grapefruit or lime because they are super refreshing and are strong enough to cover up your running smell, but not so strong that people know you’re coming from a mile away.
3. Pile on Some Extra Antiperspirant before You Go out for Your Run
Antiperspirant is great because it helps mask odor, but it also helps keep you from sweating. Make sure that you add some extra to your armpits, groin and feet before you hit the pavement. That way, you cut down on how much you sweat while also helping to cover up that sweaty smell that occurs after a good workout.
4. Try Using Boric Acid Where You Sweat
Some health experts suggest applying boric acid to places on your body that tend to sweat a lot. You should do this just after a shower, so you’re ready for your next run, but don’t use too much, as it can irritate your skin. Boric acid helps kill the bacteria that causes sweat to smell bad, cutting down on the odor of your body after a run. If you have skin issues, be sure to talk with your dermatologist before trying boric acid.
5. Cut Back on Garlic and Onions in Your Diet
Doctors say that people who eat a lot of garlic and onions tend to smell much stronger when they sweat. If you’re planning a run for tomorrow morning, skip the Italian food tonight and you may notice less of the stench. Other foods can also cause stinkier sweat so pay attention to what you’ve eaten if you notice that you have a stronger smell on some days and not on others.
6. Try Eating a Healthier Diet
Just like certain foods can make you smell stronger, eating a healthy and well-balanced diet helps your body function optimally so that your sweat glands work properly. This isn’t a magical cure, but it certainly helps as you try to cut back on the stink.
7. Finally – I’m Saying It – Take a Shower
This one is pretty much a no-brainer. If you have time and access to a shower after your run, hop in for 5 minutes and rinse all the sweat and stink off your body. Wash with a good body soap to kill bacteria and create a fresh scent. Easy enough, right?
Are you a runner? What are your secrets for staying fresh and smelling great?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I smell fresh after a run without showering?
- Oh, I get it! Sometimes there’s just no time for a shower. Try using wipe-on body wipes or deodorant wipes. They’re lifesavers. Also, a quick change into fresh clothes helps too!
- Why do I smell so bad after running?
- Oh, the struggle is real! It's mainly the sweat mixed with bacteria on your skin. Some of us just naturally sweat more or have stronger-smelling sweat. Keeping those armpits clean and using a strong antiperspirant can do wonders.
- What’s a good deodorant for running?
- Honestly, everyone’s got their fave. But I've heard really good things about those sport-specific ones. They’re designed to last through intense workouts. Just look for labels like '24hr protection' or 'sport' on them.
- How can I smell good without using perfume?
- Great question! Besides deodorant, you can use body sprays or scented lotions. They usually have a lighter scent but work wonders in keeping you smellin' fresh. Don’t forget about mints or gum—it’s not just about the pits!
- Is there a way to smell good while working out?
- Totally! First, start with a clean slate—shower and use a fresh scent deodorant before your workout. Wear breathable fabrics that wick away sweat, and maybe even a little body spray if it’s not too much.