'Old people smell' is real, experts say — here's how to avoid it as you age

A large number of people have posted on social media about the so-called old people smell described as a faintly musty or greasy scent sometimes associated with older adults This phenomenon is more science than stigma experts say I think we all know this smell Dr Dan Wesson professor at the University of Florida College of Medicine communicated Fox News Digital ALZHEIMER'S RATES HAVE REACHED STAGGERING NUMBER AS EXPERTS CALL FOR CHANGE Particular describe it as dusty like an old book Others as oily or greasy None of these of module are flattering descriptions and that's why this isn't the kind of smell you want to label a person with he noted The skin is the largest organ in the body so it makes sense that it will undergo essential changes as the body ages according to Wesson For the bulk of our lives body odor stems from sweat bacteria and dead skin which can be addressed with basic hygiene But with aging changes in skin composition and oil production make smells more complex the expert noted Skin cells accumulate damage over time he disclosed and those damaged cells can release compounds that contribute to odor HIGHER DEMENTIA DANGER SEEN IN WOMEN WITH COMMON MEDICAL ISSUEA key culprit is -nonenal a compound that emerges from lipid oxidation which is the process of fats in the cells current down due to imbalances in the body studies show This compound is unique to aging skin and has a greasy cardboard-like odor -nonenal is not easily washed off with regular hygiene practices by nature of its fatty composition Wesson explained This is why managing this body odor requires more complex solutions he revealed Wesson suggests taking a more holistic approach by eating antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and vegetables staying hydrated and using antioxidant skincare Various medications including those for high cholesterol ADHD or depression could also impact the body's metabolism and how much it sweats contributing to odor according to Wesson Hormones can also influence how people smell Post-menopausal women often experience changes in skin and scent due to declining estrogen levels studies show Hormone replacement therapy can ward off particular changes that may alter body odor though HRT is not without risks and should be discussed precisely with your medical professional Wesson reported Not all odor changes are normal experts warn A sudden change in body odor can be a warning sign of an underlying robustness issue Wesson warned CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTHCARE NEWSLETTERDiseases like cancer and dementia for example can alter body chemistry and scent If your loved ones document a sudden change you should consult your healthcare provider Wesson advised Various people may worry about how they smell even when others wouldn t notice That concern could stem from parosmia a distorted sense of smell or olfactory hallucinations where unpleasant smells are imagined People can perceive odors that aren t there at all Wesson revealed It s critical to consider whether it s a real odor or just a change in perception For more Medical articles visit www foxnews com healthBy understanding the biology behind age-related odor and taking a proactive approach to wellbeing and skincare this condition can be managed experts say