Dermatologists have recently indicated that incorporating tannins into your skincare routine may help combat the "old person smell," scientifically known as nonenal odor, which typically begins to develop around the age of 40. A popular source of tannins is Thayers' witch hazel toner, a drugstore staple known for its diverse benefits beyond odor neutralization.
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Tannins counteract nonenal odors by neutralizing odor molecules, reducing the oily secretions that contribute to their formation, and targeting the bacteria that exacerbate the smell. Various ingredients, including willow bark, green tea extract, and persimmon, are good sources of tannins. Thayers' witch hazel, marketed as a popular option, is alcohol-free and combines witch hazel extract, soothing aloe, and glycerin, which hydrates the skin.
Users have found it beneficial not just for skincare but also for preventing body odor. Many apply the toner to areas such as underarms, behind the ears, and inner thighs. One Amazon customer mentioned that on days when their armpits need a break from deodorant, using the toner leaves their skin smooth. Additionally, Thayers' product is touted as a post-shave solution to reduce irritation and prevent ingrown hairs, with users reporting less redness and itchiness after application.
The toner is available in five scents, including an unscented version, and retails for $11. Reviewers often note its multipurpose nature, using it beyond facial skincare to prevent odor and manage uneven skin tone in various areas.
For those exploring further solutions against nonenal odors, previous reports have highlighted a Japanese persimmon soap reputed to contain high levels of deodorizing tannins, as well as a Korean cleansing balm with persimmon extract, designed to effectively cleanse the skin of impurities.
The original version of this story was published on HuffPost.