6 Ways to Keep it Dry

August 25, 2010, By Peter Chakerian 2 comments

Talcs and Other Powders

A light dusting with a talcum or medicated body powder doesn't have to mean a flowery baby powder smell. Guys have a wide selection of powders with manly, sexy fragrances, and some with no scent at all, to help stay dry.

Balla Powder is one of the most talked about in men's magazines lately, with its risque name and choice of three scents. Balla advertises that the powder can be used "anywhere that dryness is desired, including your underarms, shorts and feet." But with a name like Balla, all guys know what they really mean.

Old Spice, Jewel Dust and other companies have introduced product lines to keep those nether regions dry. But many guys will tell you that scents that conflict with tried-and-true colognes, aftershaves and deodorants can be unattractive at best and headache-inducing for a partner at worst.

If your dad never shared the advice with you, consider the always-neutral Gold Bond Extra Strength Powder to control moisture, odor and skin irritation such as jock itch. With menthol, zinc oxide and other cooling ingredients, Gold Bond may be your best bet to stay cool, dry and appealing across the board.

Some Final Tips

Think about your diet. Alcohol, coffee, red meat, spices and certain kinds of veggies (asparagus, garlic, onions) can lead to excessive body odor. We're not suggesting that you start eating like a rabbit, but drinking like a fish might not be helping your cause.

Also keep water and fiber intake high and you'll automatically be less offensive from the start. And lay off the fried and processed foods if you can. The oils in them tend to work their way out of skin pores eventually, and not in a flattering way.

Guys are likely to be a bit "gamey" after a workout. Try to time any intimate activity for after an appropriate cool-down time (1-2 hours) and pair that with a fresh shower, dress and shave. You'll look better, feel better, and you are more likely to stay dry. And if you normally take super hot showers like yours truly, consider notching down the temp a bit; all that heat does is make you sweat more.

Consider a soak in the tub after a workout or a rough day of physical activity. Drop a cup of baking soda in the running bathwater and soak up to 20 minutes. Aside from curbing odor, some detox properties are associated with the ritual. Either way, a soak will leave you time to catch up on the sports section you didn't get to read today.