What is "old people smell"?  
 
Aging is a natural process, and with it comes a variety of changes. While we often focus on the visible signs of aging, there’s a less talked-about shift that can impact our confidence and social interactions: changes in body odor. As we get older, a substance called Nonenal can become more prominent, contributing to what some call the “aging smell.” But don’t worry, there’s a natural solution gaining attention: persimmon soap!
 
Understanding Nonenal
 
Nonenal, or more accurately (E)-2-nonenal, is a chemical compound produced when certain fatty acids on our skin oxidize. This process typically starts around age 40, when our natural antioxidant defenses begin to decline. While Nonenal is a significant contributor to age-related body odor, it’s important to remember that it’s not the sole cause. Changes in skin flora and other factors also play a role.
 
The scent of Nonenal is often described as “greasy” or “grassy,” and it can be difficult to detect on ourselves. Unfortunately, it’s also quite persistent. Unlike typical sweat-based odors, Nonenal isn’t water-soluble and tends to cling to fabrics, lingering on clothes and bedding.
 
Nonenal and Menopause
 
Menopause can intensify both sweat-based and Nonenal-based odors. This is because fluctuating hormone levels, particularly the decline in estrogen, can affect skin’s lipid composition, making it more prone to oxidation and Nonenal formation. Hot flashes and night sweats further exacerbate the issue by increasing the secretion of fatty acids, the precursors to Nonenal.
 
The Power of Persimmon
 
Fortunately, nature offers a potential solution in the form of the Japanese persimmon fruit. This sweet fruit is packed with antioxidants and has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Researchers have discovered that the tannins in persimmon can neutralize Nonenal, making it a promising ingredient for combating age-related body odor. Persimmon, especially in its unripe state, is rich in tannins. These natural compounds have astringent and antioxidant properties, and they’re believed to be the key to persimmon’s odor-fighting abilities. While tannins are crucial, persimmon also contains other beneficial compounds like flavonoids that may contribute to its effectiveness.
 
Many soap companies are making persimmon soap, but are based in melt & pour glycerin soap, which usually contains alcohol and other additives that can irritate the skin, and they are charging upward of $16/bar!. We are making our persimmon soap in our usual all natural ingredient soap recipe, and NOT charging $16/bar. We have also added matcha green tea for it's amazing anti-oxidative properties! And while some argue that making persimmon or green tea soap the "cold process method" destroys any valuable plant attributes due to the high heat reaction associated with the cold process method, we add our valuable extracts late in the soapmaking process to keep temps as cool as possible and preserve their plant magic.