Do people really smell different as they get older? The truth behind ‘old person smell’
Experts say that the smell comes from a chemical compound called 2-nonenal, and it can show up much earlier than one expects
TL;DR
- The odor sometimes called 'old person smell' is caused by a chemical compound called 2-nonenal, produced when skin oils oxidize.
- This is a normal and unavoidable biological change as skin lipids break down over time.
- 2-nonenal can be detected on the skin starting around age 40, though the scent increases gradually with age.
- Every age group has a signature scent, with babies smelling milky and teens having a muskier smell due to hormonal changes.
- Studies suggest that the odor from older adults may be rated as less intense and less unpleasant than other age groups.
- While the odor cannot be stopped, regular bathing, washing clothes and sheets, and managing oxidative stress through diet and lifestyle can help manage it.