Testosterone itself, being a hormone, does not have a smell. However, its effects on the body can influence body odors. Testosterone can increase the production of sweat and sebum, and it also affects the bacterial flora on the skin, which can lead to changes in body odor. This is why individuals, particularly males who generally have higher levels of testosterone, may notice a change in their body odor during puberty or other times when hormone levels fluctuate.
The perception of smell associated with testosterone is more about the body’s responses to the hormone, rather than the hormone itself emitting an odor. The complex interplay of hormones, bacteria, and personal hygiene contributes to the unique scent of an individual.