If you have an elderly person around you, you probably know this particular smell they give off. This scent is not a simple cliché: it has roots linked to the biology of aging. “”I think we all know that smell. Some describe it as dusty, like an old book. Others like Grasse. None of these descriptions, of course, is flattering, and that is why it is not the kind of smell with which you want to label a person“Esides Dr. Dan Wesson, professor of medicine at the University of Florida, questioned by Foxnews.
Why is hygiene is no longer enough to mask the smell of the elderly?
Our bodily smells are caused by sweat, bacteria and dead cells present on our epidermis. So many elements relatively easy to neutralize with simple gestures: daily shower, clean clothing and suitable soap. But this routine becomes much less effective as our body ages.
“”Skin cells accumulate damage over time“Specifies Dr. Wesson. Result: they release volatile compounds, the best known, the 2-nounéal, is directly linked to fat oxidation in skin cells. This fragrant fatty compound does not go so easily with a traditional soap.
For what ? “”The 2-nounéal is not easily washed with regular hygiene practices, due to the nature of its fatty composition “ he explains. This is precisely what makes this smell so persistent, if not impossible to mask even with perfumes or antiseptic products.
What science says about biological and hormonal causes
In parallel, aging weakens our natural defenses, including antioxidants of the skin. With age, sebum production changes, dead cells accumulate longer, and skin renewal slows down. It is therefore a fertile terrain for lipid oxidation and the appearance of the famous 2-noisal.
And that’s not all. Certain drugs, especially those against hypercholesterolemia, depression or ADHD, also influence bodily chemistry and sweat production. Hormonal variations too, especially after menopause can also intensify this smell.
“”Substitute hormone therapy may prevent certain changes likely to modify the body smell“Adds Dr. Wesson, who advises to discuss it with his doctor.
How to reduce this smell from the inside?
To counter this smell, the approach must be global. The objective is to reduce the oxidation of lipids by strengthening the antioxidant capacity of the body.
“”A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and antioxidants is essential “ advises the doctor. And a food, in particular, can help: mushrooms. They are naturally rich in ergothionine (a powerful antioxidant) and spermidine, a molecule that promotes autophagy, this process by which our cells are cleaned and regenerate.
This nutritional strategy, combined with antioxidant skin care, can help reduce the production of 2-noisal and restore a healthier balance for the skin.
Finally, beware of the body smell, because it can represent a real alert signal. Indeed, a new, intense or sudden smell can indicate an underlying health problem, such as certain cancers or neurological disorders. “”If your loved ones report a sudden change, you should consult your doctor “ concludes Dr. Wesson.