Body Odour

Reinventing odour control: Eurofins C&PC, a pioneer in scientific and emotional innovation

Body odour control products are in high demand, driven by a market that increasingly values natural, eco-friendly, safe, and effective solutions. Eurofins C&PC positions itself as a trusted partner, offering cutting-edge clinical testing services to validate the performance of deodorants, antiperspirants, and fragrances in various formats (spray, roll-on, stick, etc.) and application areas (underarms, feet, scalp, etc.). Eurofins C&PC goes beyond technical validation, exploring the fascinating relationship between body odour and human emotions, opening new doors for the personal care industry.

Body odour and efficacy tests

Body odour is influenced by factors such as physical activity, stress, diet, and age. To ensure product effectiveness across all consumer groups, Eurofins C&PC recruits diverse test panels and develops tailored protocols. These assessments evaluate not only overall efficacy but also performance for specific target groups or body zones.

Eurofins C&PC offers testing adapted to a variety of claims, including:

• Long-lasting efficacy: assessments over 24h, 48h, or 72h.
• Specific conditions: high humidity, intense physical activity, or athleisure-focused claims.
• Dermatological testing: validation for sensitive skin or under dermatological supervision.
• Complementary claims: testing for pH skin compatibility and maintenance of the skin microbiome balance.

Our laboratories also specialise in the analysis of odorant molecules using non-invasive sampling. In addition, a new protocol has been developed to accurately measure anti-odour effects, even for odours such as smoke or cooking smells on hair.

Body odour and emotions

Body odour is more than a physical phenomenon - it is deeply intertwined with our emotions. Sweat produced by apocrine glands in response to stress, fear, or excitement is transformed by bacteria into distinct odours that often reflect our emotional state. This connection has evolutionary significance, allowing humans to detect cues like fear or happiness through smell.

In collaboration with the EMOSPIN laboratory, Eurofins C&PC has been studying this relationship for over 25 years. Research reveals that odours directly influence mood: pleasant scents reduce stress, while unpleasant ones trigger negative emotions. Moreover, body odour plays a key role in non-verbal communication, conveying information about health, attraction, and emotional states.

To quantify these complex links, Eurofins C&PC employs multidisciplinary techniques, including, but not limited to the following:

• Brain and heart activity monitoring.
• Facial expression recognition.
• Vocal spectrum analysis.

These tools enable the objective measurement of emotional responses to odours, offering scientific validation for innovative product claims.

By combining science, innovation, and emotional insight, Eurofins C&PC helps brands develop products that not only effectively control odour but also enhance sensory and emotional well-being. From deodorants to laundry detergents and home fragrances, Eurofins C&PC provides comprehensive solutions tailored to complex demands.