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Skin odor signatures may shift with age

Investigators linked distinct odor patterns to life stage, sex, and skin microbes, while limited longitudinal evidence leaves their clinical utility uncertain.

  • By

  • Andrea Surnit

  • October 14, 2026

  • 4 min

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  • 1

    A narrative review of 55 studies found that skin volatile organic compound profiles vary across age and biological factors, although the median study sample included 35 participants.

  • 2

    Infant profiles were dominated by acidic compounds, while puberty coincided with androgen-related steroids and increased branched-chain fatty acids.

  • 3

    Among 11 studies with adequate samples, 10 reported consistent sex-specific odor patterns; female profiles also varied with menstrual cycle phase.

  • 4

    Six cross-sectional studies found that 2-nonenal emerged in older populations, but its proposed link to lipid peroxidation has not been experimentally established.

  • 5

    Most studies were cross-sectional, small, and inconsistently controlled for confounders, prompting calls for standardized methods, longitudinal research, and rigorous validation.

Original Source(s)

Skin odor signatures may shift with age

  • by Andrea Surnit

  • October 14, 2026

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