Summary
Research into the phenomenon known as "old person smell" reveals that age may indeed influence body odor, although the findings are not definitive. Multiple listeners raise concerns about whether people truly smell different as they age, prompting a discussion about scientific studies that suggest a connection between aging and specific odors. These studies, primarily conducted in Japan, identify a compound called 2-nonanol, which may be associated with older individuals. However, the research is limited and has not been replicated in diverse populations, leading to questions about its validity.
The conversation also addresses the marketing of products like persimmon soap, which claims to combat old person smell. The hosts critique the marketing strategies that create insecurities around aging and body odor, suggesting that a healthy diet may be a more effective way to influence body scent than purchasing expensive soaps. They conclude that while there may be some basis for the concept of old person smell, regular hygiene practices and a balanced diet are likely sufficient to manage body odor, making the anxiety surrounding this issue largely unfounded.
Show Notes
We've received questions from listeners worried that other people can smell their age. So is "old person smell" a thing? And do you need expensive soap to combat it? Norman and Tegan discuss some of the science underpinning this supposed phenomenon, and where marketing tricks play a part. References: 2-Nonenal Newly Found in Human Body Odor Tends to Increase with Aging Measurement of 2-nonenal and diacetyl emanating from human skin surface employing passive flux sampler—GCMS system Analyses of volatile organic compounds from human skin The effect of polyphenol-containing soap on reducing body odor in middle-aged and elderly men The Smell of Age: Perception and Discrimination of Body Odors of Different Ages Diet quality and the attractiveness of male body odor If you enjoyed this episode, check these out! Don't sweat it? Conventional vs natural deodorants What has your nose got to do with sleep?
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