In a recent trend circulating on the internet, there is advice suggesting to reduce bathing frequency to preserve pheromones. Advocates of this practice claim that specific scents can work wonders in attracting a partner. But is this approach effective?
Researchers Samuel Cornell from the University of Queensland and Rob Brooks, an evolutionary biologist at the University of New South Wales, discussed the issue from a scientific perspective in an article on The Conversation website.
According to these scholars, pheromones are chemical messengers released by organisms to trigger responses in other individuals of the same species. It’s like broadcasting a chemical signal publicly to prompt reactions from others.
Pheromones were first discovered in silk moths in 1959. This chemical substance is a sexual attractant released by female silk moths to lure mates. Other animals like mice, cats, and pigs also release pheromones, mainly to attract mates or mark territory.
Not all pheromones in animals carry a scent. The definition of pheromones does not depend on whether they can be smelled or which organ can perceive them. Some pheromones can be detected through smell, while others are completely imperceptible to humans.
The key to pheromones being pheromones lies in their ability to elicit reliable responses among individuals of the same species, rather than whether they have a scent.
As for humans, even though we can perceive odors, whether pleasant, unpleasant, or somewhere in between, there is no evidence showing that we can detect, respond to, or produce pheromones.
The researchers elaborated that for pheromones to be effective, there must be some mechanism to receive them, which humans do not possess the physiological structure to receive such signals. Additionally, scientists have yet to discover any chemical substance in humans that fits the definition of pheromones.
Regarding whether sweat can serve a similar function, or if the odor of sweat can attract the opposite sex, these scholars indicated it is unlikely.
Sweat primarily consists of 99% water, electrolytes (salt), and trace amounts of urea, ammonia, and other compounds. Freshly excreted sweat is almost odorless.
If sweat is left on the body without washing, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to the emission of unpleasant odors that are unlikely to be appealing.
Certainly, some people may find the smell of certain individuals attractive. However, this often stems from positive romantic relationships, such as having a crush on someone or being in a relationship with that person.
In conclusion, the scholars emphasized that using soap to bathe and using deodorant remain the best ways to maximize olfactory attractiveness.
While everyone has different bathing needs influenced by factors like sebum secretion and sweat levels, it is not advisable to go days without bathing. Previously, dermatologists have recommended showering daily or at least 2 to 3 times a week.
People who exercise frequently and sweat, those with skin issues, or those prone to acne should shower daily to maintain health.
As for whether it’s better to bathe in the morning or at night, American sleep expert Robert Oexman suggests that in terms of sleep, bathing at night is better as it can help relax the body and mind, leading to a better night’s sleep.