Which type of sweat glands are responsible for odor?

The apocrine glands are primarily responsible for producing odor in sweat. These glands are located in areas with a higher density of hair follicles, such as the armpits and groin. They secrete a thicker, milky fluid that becomes odorous when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin's surface. This process occurs because the sweat produced by apocrine glands contains fatty acids and proteins, which bacteria metabolize, leading to the characteristic body odor.

In contrast, eccrine glands, which are found throughout the body and are more numerous, produce a watery sweat that primarily plays a role in temperature regulation and does not typically contribute to body odor. Sebaceous glands produce oil (sebum) that helps to keep the skin moisturized but does not produce sweat. Exocrine glands is a broader term that encompasses various glands that secrete substances outside the body, including sweat glands, but does not specifically pertain to the type of glands responsible for odor.