Research funded by L’Oréal could change the face of the deodorant market forever. Scientists at Compiegne University of Technology (CUT) in France have developed synthetic antibodies capable of preventing body odour by binding to chemicals in sweat.

Molecular imprinted polymers (MIP) as the artificial antibodies are known, are capable of specific molecular recognition, capturing the precursors of odorous compounds and thereby preventing unpleasant smells from developing.

“After capturing the offending molecules in human sweat, the antibodies remain bound and inaccessible for the bacteria until they are washed or wiped off by the normal body hygiene,” explained Professor Karsten Haupt, Head of Enzyme and Cell Engineering at CUT, in an interview with the Mailonline.

The discovery is currently being tested for safety, but deodorants based on these antibodies could be commercially available within two years.

“This is an interesting avenue of research and illustrates how investment in science can lead to potential solutions for everyday problems,” Dr Steve Shiel, Science Director at L’Oréal told the Daily Mail. “Science helps us stay at the forefront of innovation and create more personalised, high-performance products and services.”