Happy group of young people. Some with the ABCC11 gene

IRL

ABCC11: THE WILD GENE THAT DECIDES WHETHER YOU SWEAT (OR SMELL)

Some people breeze through summer without a single pit stain, while the rest are out here double-checking for marks before every hug. Turns out, it’s not just luck or better hygiene—science might be playing favorites. Meet the ABCC11 gene, the tiny DNA switch that decides whether you sweat a lot, smell strong, or barely break a sweat at all.

What Does the ABCC11 Gene Do?

Let’s get nerdy for a sec. The ABCC11 gene controls how your apocrine sweat glands (the ones found in your underarms) work.¹ These glands produce a thicker kind of sweat that bacteria love to snack on, which creates odor. But if you have a certain variant of this gene, your apocrine glands don’t produce that same odor-friendly sweat.

Basically, it’s like your body’s natural “odor-off” switch. People with this version of the gene tend to sweat less and smell less, even without deodorant. But before you toss yours away, keep in mind: everyone still produces eccrine sweat (the type that helps cool your body). So yes, you can still feel sticky after a workout. You just might not smell like it.

What Ethnicity Has the ABCC11 Variant?

Here’s where things get even more interesting. The “no-smell” version of the ABCC11 gene is super common in East Asian populations—as in, up to 95% of people carry it.² But in other parts of the world, like Europe and Africa, it’s much rarer.

That’s why in countries like Japan or Korea, deodorant isn’t a daily must-have for most people. It’s also why deodorant sales are way lower there than in Western countries.

So, if you’ve ever wondered why your friend from Seoul can go through an entire day without a hint of odor while you’re reapplying at lunch, it could just be genetics.

Is the ABCC11 Variant Rare?

Here’s the deal: globally, the odor-free version of ABCC11 is pretty rare. About 80–95% of East Asians carry it, while only around 2–3% of people with European or African ancestry do.² That’s a massive gap.

Scientists actually use this gene as a cool example of how humans have evolved differently based on climate and environment. In colder climates, less sweating may have been an evolutionary advantage. Meanwhile, in hotter regions, sweating more helped people regulate body temperature.

So, next time you notice how differently people handle heat or odor, remember—part of it might be written in their DNA.

How Do I Know If I Have the ABCC11 Variant?

Okay, you’re probably wondering: “Do I have this gene or not?” You could find out through a DNA test, but there’s also a surprising clue you can check without sending off your spit: your earwax type. Weird, right? People with the ABCC11 “no-odor” variant tend to have dry earwax, while everyone else usually has wet earwax. Both are totally normal, just different genetic outcomes of the same gene.¹

Whether your genes make you a non-sweater or a certified heavy sweater, odor management is still about balance. Washing regularly, staying hydrated, and using products that match your needs.

The ABCC11 gene is proof that your DNA plays a bigger role in your body odor than your gym routine or your diet ever could. Some people are born with the “no-smell” version, meaning they can skip deodorant and still stay fresh. Others? Not so lucky—but that’s what great antiperspirants are for.

In the end, whether you're a natural non-sweater or someone who needs a little extra help staying fresh, it's all about finding what works for you. Embrace your unique self, and remember that confidence is the best accessory you can wear. And hey, if you're one of the lucky ones with the ABCC11 variant, enjoy the perks of a little less sweat and a lot more chill.

FAQs

1. What is the function of the ABCC11 gene?

It’s basically your sweat switch in charge of your sweat glands, telling them how much or how little to sweat and determining the strength of the odor.