Human odor?

Question

Do we have odors even when we're clean?. I've never smelled a weird odor in anyone "clean" before. But I heard some people say that some black people say we "white people" smell. and some white people say that black people smell-- I don't mean to be racist, So please don't get mad at me :). All I'm trying to say is, do human beings smell, but it takes someone from another race to actually smell it?

Answer 1

Most odors in animals occur for three reasons: (1) odors that serve no purpose, but are present because they are a by-product of a metabolic process; (2) bacteria and fungi that live off of fat, hair (or fur), skin, or oils; and (3) odors that function as sexual attractants. Humans are no different in this regard, except that we try to mask all of these odors, and we also learn to ignore them.

When people smell differently, it usually occurs because of one or more of these differences. Differences in hygiene practices or hygenic products causes different types of bacteria and fungi to live on the skin; differences in diet -produce different metabolic by-products. So, if one person likes to use very strong and harsh antibacterial soap, and another likes to use very mild, natural soap, or no soap at all, there will be differences in odor due to different types of bacteria and fungi on the skin. Same with food. If a person eats a lot of spices and things like garlic in their diet, they will likely produce more pungent odors than people who eat bland diets.

If there is a racial or social pattern, it may be because different cultures have different tastes in food, and there may also be some small differences in preferences for certain brands of soaps, shampoos and deodorants.

Answer 2

Everyone does emit an odor at some level. It is why dogs smell crotches of humans when they meet them. It is a way of identifying people. The black/white issue is irrelevant. Human odor is caused by bacteria which are determined by eating habits, environment and hygiene.

Answer 3

odors may be as a result of our environment. every one has their own unique smell. i am a black woman. i know some white people who smell good but i have also met some who smell like " wet cats" but i also have encountered balcks who dont smell too hot either. so it has nothing to do with color or race. people just make excuses as to why they should hate others. hey if someone smells dont be bothered with them .

Answer 4

Humans do emit faint odors, primarily pheromones which go back millions of years and were initially used to allure sexual mates. Most "smells" now are the result of bacteria emitting gases.