MICROANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Apocrine sweat glands start to function at puberty under the stimulation of sex hormones. They are associated with hair follicles in the groin and axillary region. The viscous, protein-rich product is initially odorless but may develop an odor after exposure to bacteria.

Detailed explanation-2: -The apocrine gland secretes an oily fluid with proteins and lipids that is odorless before microbial activity. It appears on the skin surface mixed with sebum, as sebaceous glands open into the same hair follicle. Unlike eccrine sweat glands, which secrete continuously, the apocrine glands secrete in periodic spurts.

Detailed explanation-3: -Eccrine glands are found all over the body and secrete a thin, watery sweat that cools the skin. Apocrine glands are found in the armpits and perineal areas, and are attached to hair follicles. The latter secrete a thicker sweat, which is acted on by bacteria to produce the all-too-familiar “sweat smell."