Why do different races have different body odor?

Here are likely some of the factors for differences in bodily scents between different races and ethnic groups:

1. Differences in the number of sweat glands. People who are better adapted to living in hotter climates would have more sweat glands. People living where it is colder or more populated tend to have more oil glands. People in moderate climates may have a medium ratio of sweat glands to oil glands.

2. Differences in bilirubin secretion. Bilirubin is a a breakdown product of blood. It seems that different races secrete different amounts in the urine. So if there is less in the urine, maybe there is more in the sweat.

3. Differences in diet. Members of different ethnic groups, and people living in different areas eat different things.

4. Racism could play a role if members of certain races are forced to live in low-income areas. So that would mean more physical labor and sweating would be required, and maybe less ability to take care of oneself.

5. Possible difference in hormone levels. Certain male hormone metabolites contribute to bodily scents that some may consider offensive. The sense of smell is quite subjective, and even sexual orientation can impact which odors seem offensive to a person. In a study, heterosexual females and gay men found one of the testosterone metabolites to be more pleasing than heterosexual men and lesbians. So if members of different races secrete different amounts of sex hormones or their metabolites, or metabolize them differently, that could in theory affect body scents.

6. Different types of bacteria living on the skin. The amount of sweat, the chemicals secreted in the sweat, the living environment, the pH factor of the body, and the diet consumed can affect what bacteria lives on the skin.