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Body odor is a universal concern for many people around the world, leading to a multi-billion-dollar deodorant and antiperspirant industry.

However, for a significant portion of the East Asian population, deodorant use is often unnecessary, not because of cultural habits, but due to a fascinating genetic difference.

Scientific research has revealed that many East Asians carry a specific gene variant that dramatically reduces body odor, making them biologically less prone to sweating and the resulting smell.

This unique trait is both surprising and enlightening, offering insights into human diversity, evolution, and the role of genetics in daily life.

The Science Behind Body Odor

Body odor primarily originates from sweat glands known as apocrine glands, which are located in areas such as the armpits and groin.

These glands secrete a milky fluid that, by itself, is mostly odorless. However, when this fluid is broken down by bacteria on the skin’s surface, it produces the distinctive smell we associate with body odor.

The intensity and presence of this odor vary greatly from person to person. Factors such as diet, hygiene, health, and environment play roles, but genetics is a significant underlying determinant.

Specifically, a gene known as ABCC11 has been found to directly influence the composition of apocrine sweat and, by extension, the presence or absence of body odor.

The Role of ABC11 Gene

The ABCC11 gene affects the type of molecules produced in apocrine sweat. People with the "active" version of this gene produce a type of sweat that is rich in compounds which bacteria can easily break down, leading to stronger body odor.

In contrast, those with the "inactive" version of the gene produce a drier type of sweat that is less prone to bacterial breakdown and, as a result, significantly less odorous.

published in 2009 revealed that the vast majority of East Asians, especially populations in countries like China, Japan, and Korea, carry the inactive form of the ABCC11 gene.

This means that a large portion of population in East Asia naturally produce little to no underarm odor.

In Japan, for example, it is estimated that more than 95% of the population has this gene variant, which explains the relatively low demand for deodorant products in the region.

Evolutionary and Historical Implications

The genetic trait associated with reduced body odor is believed to have emerged thousands of years ago and may have offered some evolutionary advantage in certain climates. The trait is also linked to another visible characteristic: dry, flaky earwax.

People with the inactive ABCC11 gene not only have less body odor but also tend to have dry earwax, while those with the active version typically have wet, sticky earwax.

This peculiar connection between earwax type and body odor has been a useful indicator for scientists studying the gene’s distribution across populations.

The dry-earwax, low-odor gene variant is far more common among East Asians, relatively rare among Europeans and Africans, and virtually nonexistent in some other parts of the world.

This suggests that natural selection and geographic isolation played a role in shaping this genetic trait.

In colder climates, for example, having fewer active sweat glands may have helped conserve body heat, providing a subtle survival advantage.

Cultural and Market Implications

The prevalence of this gene in East Asian populations also has direct implications for consumer behavior. In many East Asian countries, deodorants and antiperspirants are less widely used and often considered unnecessary.

Visitors to countries like Japan or South Korea may notice that deodorant is not as readily available in stores, or that the products available are marketed more as perfumes or skincare items than essential hygiene products.

In contrast, in Western countries where the majority of people carry the active ABCC11 gene variant, deodorant use is an everyday necessity.

This stark contrast underscores how deeply genetics can influence daily routines and cultural norms, even in something as seemingly mundane as personal hygiene products.

Misconceptions

While it’s true that many East Asians naturally produce less body odor, it’s important not to generalize or turn genetic facts into stereotypes. Not every East Asian individual has the inactive ABCC11 gene, and genetic variation exists within every population.

Additionally, personal hygiene is shaped by cultural, social, and environmental factors that go beyond biology. Recognizing the science behind these differences should foster understanding, not division or judgment.