On its own sweat does not cause odor. Sweat is natural and odorless but mixed with textiles it creates a moist and warm environment ideal for odor causing bacteria to multiply and grow. Polygiene prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi at the source, permanently. This is achieved through small amounts of silver salt (silver chloride), with antimicrobial properties. Silver Chloride is naturally present in water and soil. The treatment is applied at the finishing stages of textile production and it is permanent. The result, proven through field and lab tests, is a high level of odor control beyond the usual lifespan of a garment. Polygiene silver salt technology is only active on the textile itself. There is no affect on the natural bacterial flora of the skin, unlike nanosilver.