Advancing frontiers in skin offensive odor management: from innovative diagnostics to cutting-edge treatments and...

Skin bromhidrosis, commonly referred to as body odor, is caused by the microbial breakdown of sweat, leading to the formation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that result in unpleasant odors. While body odor is a natural consequence of sweat production, excessive or persistent odor can significantly affect quality of life, causing social stigma and psychological distress. Traditional approaches to managing body odor, such as antiperspirants and deodorants, have limitations, necessitating the development of more advanced diagnostic tools and treatments. This review aims to explore recent advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of skin offensive odor, focusing on cutting-edge technologies and novel approaches. It highlights the interplay of the skin microbiome, sweat gland activity, and external factors in odor formation and investigates innovative solutions for long-term odor management. Emerging diagnostic techniques, such as electronic nose (E-nose) technology, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and next-generation sequencing (NGS), enable precise detection and analysis of odor-causing VOCs and microbial profiles. These tools facilitate a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of odor production. Treatment innovations include nanotechnology-based antimicrobials (e.g., silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles), probiotic formulations for microbiome modulation, and odor-neutralizing compounds such as cyclodextrins and enzymatic neutralizers. Advanced delivery systems, including microneedle patches and nanoencapsulation, enable targeted, sustained release of active ingredients. Additionally, systemic approaches like oral probiotics and dietary interventions offer complementary strategies for managing body odor. The integration of novel diagnostics with innovative topical and systemic treatments offers promising avenues for more effective and personalized management of skin offensive odor. These advancements pave the way for improved quality of life for individuals affected by bromhidrosis, with potential for widespread application in personal care and medical contexts. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.