When I first heard how long she went without deodorant, I was sceptical. Yet this six-year journey reveals surprising insights about body odour, diet and even genetics.
Alyse’s Six-Year Experiment
Alyse Parker, a 28-year-old wellness influencer, decided to quit deodorant entirely—and kept it off for six years. Convinced that conventional products contained harmful chemicals, she embarked on an odour-free challenge. I recall trying a week without my usual antiperspirant and noticing my confidence wobble—so Alyse’s long-term results seemed almost mythical.
Ditching Deodorant
Despite regular workouts and everyday sweats, Alyse reports she never developed unpleasant smells. Even after a spin class that left her drenched, she emerged without a trace of stench. According to the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, about 2% of women carry a rare genetic mutation that prevents them from producing typical underarm scents—perhaps Alyse is one of this lucky few.
The Role of Diet
Alyse credits her strict vegan diet for keeping her natural scent neutral. She argues that plant-based meals produce fewer odour-causing compounds in sweat. Research from the American Chemical Society suggests that diets high in red meat and processed foods can intensify body odour, while fruits and vegetables have a gentler effect on skin chemistry.
A Revealing Comparison
She likens her experiment to walking past a smoothie bar versus a bakery: the former barely registers a scent, whereas the latter is unmistakable. It’s a vivid analogy that made me rethink how what we eat can literally change how we smell.
Raw Vegan Phase
Taking things further, Alyse spent months eating only raw foods—fruit, salads and unheated veggies. During this period, she noticed her odour faded to almost nothing. A study in Nutrients journal found that high-raw diets can alter sweat composition and reduce volatile odour molecules, mirroring Alyse’s experience.
Gym Test
Far from being a couch potato, Alyse trains vigorously three times a week. “I’m the kind of person who leaves the gym soaked,” she laughs. Yet even after her most intense sessions, she remained fresh without a dab of deodorant—an impressive feat that challenges our assumptions about perspiration and smell.
A Genetic Exception
While Alyse’s results are remarkable, experts caution that not everyone can replicate them. Dr. Emily Harding of the International Society of Dermatologists explains, “Body odour is shaped by bacteria, diet and genetics. A rare gene variant can mean no armpit scent at all.” Though Alyse’s routine may inspire, she admits that her unique biology likely played a key role.
This experiment shows that for some, deodorant might be optional—especially when paired with a clean diet and perhaps a touch of genetic luck. But for most of us, a trusty antiperspirant and good hygiene remain the safest route to staying fresh.
