Research published in 2020 in Acta Dermato-Venereologica demonstrates that malodor in the axilla area commonly caused by microbes may be inhibited by zinc oxide.
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 30 healthy volunteers, in each participant, one axilla was treated with zinc oxide and the other with a placebo for 13 days. The microbiota and skin pH were analyzed before and during treatment. In addition, at the final visit, participants judged their own axillary odor.
See related: Ballsy Expands to Women's Intimate Care with Boobguard
Zinc oxide decreased total bacterial growth; specifically that of the odor-producing Corynebacterium spp. and Staphylococcus hominis, despite an increase in skin-surface pH. Compared with the placebo, zinc oxide also reduced self-perceived malodor.
