Would You Want to Know if You Reeked?

We would-but apparently not everyone feels that way. During a heated conversation at the office this week, we learned that being honest with a friend about her body odor issues can mean the end of the relationship.

One of our assistants, totally well-intentioned, told us about how she once called up a close friend and delicately suggested that she switch deodorants. (She started by discussing how she's found that she needs to change what she uses every so often... She definitely handled a tough topic the right way.) But the friend freaked out-and got defensive, said she was insulted, and then didn't speak to her again for three months. (And counting... Still no word.)

Related: Skin Embarrassments: How to Treat Damp Underarms

Considering that the average person has 2.6 million sweat glands, and that even the cleanest woman in the world can have a perspiration problem, we not only wouldn't be offended if our friends tipped us off-we'd be appreciative. In fact, in terms of beauty etiquette, we actually think nicely letting a friend know that she stinks is just as good a deed as letting her know that she has spinach in her teeth or that a dress is less than flattering. Thoughts?

Photo Credit: Condé Nast Digital Studio

More from Allure: