According to skin experts, every birthday after age 40 increases the likelihood of these changes in the way skin smells. AdvertisementThat “aging odor” is caused by increased production of this aldehyde in older people, which is the source of a distinctive, dusty “granny” smell. “This is a normal biochemical change of aging skin, similar to wrinkles or dryness,” she said. “We’ve decided we don’t like the odor of old people, but we love the odor of babies’ heads,” Reed said. I’d like us to place less emphasis on cosmetic or physiological changes such as body odor or wrinkles, which are often part of a life fully lived.”

Source: Huffington Post March 14, 2026 20:13 UTC