Have a friend for whom hygiene is not a strong suit? Natural bodycare product maker G.D. Proudfoot's has come up with a solution that is, at the very least, novel. Their new "Deodorgrams" allow you to send a stick of lavender-scented, all natural deodorant to that person who you feel could smell a little better. The gifts are sent anonymously, and can include one of their pre-written notes, a note of your own, or no note at all.

While this is definitely good for a laugh or maybe a gag gift, I really do hope that this doesn't catch on.

Actually sending something like this to someone would be seriously cruel. You're not sparing your friend embarrassment; you're only saving yourself. Opening up a surprise package in the mail, and discovering a passive aggressive hint that you smell bad inside has gotta be pretty humiliating. Anyone who would go this far, and so seriously disregard another person's feelings for their own comfort, is kind of a crappy friend. 

Plus, there are health-related reasons that someone could have bad body odor. Sometimes, it's a sign of liver problems or diabetes. Metabolic disorders, where the body is unable to digest food properly, can cause body odor, as well. People under excess stress tend to sweat more, which can cause excessive B.O. Do you want to send another stressful message to a friend who might already be struggling?

Got a friend who's not smelling as sweet as they could? Just tell them, and mention that you are concerned for their health. Not sure how to find the words? Just be straight up:"Hey, you've kind of had a body odor issue lately... everything okay with you healthwise?" If you are matter-of-fact, they will be, too.

If the problem is just one of hygiene, you can bet they'll get on it. If there's a health issue, your tip could wind up being a life-saver.

Photo: Cindy Andrie