A new study shows that in people with a certain version of the gene, armpits do not smell. True, they still use a deodorant.
Having examined 6495 women, the researchers found that about two percent (117 of 6495) of women are carriers of a rare version of the ABCC11 gene, which means that they don’t have to feel uncomfortable due to unpleasant odors from the armpits.
More than one fifth (26 of 117) of these lucky ones, knowingly or subconsciously realizing that their armpits do not smell, do not use deodorant. However, 78% still use it, and every day or almost every day. Scientists believe that these people simply follow socio-cultural norms. The situation in Northeast Asia, for example, is completely different. Most people there do not need to use a deodorant, and they do not.
The first author of the article, Dr. Santiago Rodriguez, says: “These results provide a definite opportunity to use genetics in choosing personal hygiene products. A simple gene test will help increase a person’s self-confidence and avoid unnecessary purchases, as well as exposure to chemicals.”
The authors say that in people carrying this rare genetic variant, earwax is not sticky but drier, and that earwax testing can be an indicator of whether a person is the lucky owner of the ABCC11 active gene.
Scientists have considered the feasibility of using deodorant depending on the ABCC11 genotype, as well as depending on other factors, such as age, environment and general hygiene of the household. At the individual level, the influence of the ABCC11 genotype was much stronger than the influence of other factors.
