Bambi Eloriaga-Amago
Why would a man not shower for 12 years and counting? Why for science, of course!
Divine inspiration came to Chemical Engineer David Whitlock while on a date. The lady he was with asked him—knowing he was quite the brainiac—why her horse loved rolling around in the dirt. Investigating the pony’s predilections, Whitlock discovered that the AOB (ammonia-oxidizing bacteria) in dirt converts the urea and ammonia components of sweat into good bacteria with anti-inflammatory properties.
Since then, he began spraying his own skin with a mixture of AOB and water and hasn’t showered for more than 12 years now. Supposedly, his skin looks—and smells—fine. And as an added bonus, Whitlock claims the mixture also does wonders for his mental health.
Founding the AOBiome company in 2013, Whitlock quickly took to the task of bottling and marketing his “good bacteria” mixture. Selling for $49 (approximately around 2,300 pesos) a bottle, the Mother Dirt AO+ mist, has yet to get US FDA approval. It also makes no therapeutic claims. Users of the spray, however, report that it can clear up pimples and eczema. Supposedly, it also does the job of deodorants and moisturizers.
“I would like a billion people a day to use this,” Whitlock wishes. But FDA approval for bacteria-based products is difficult at best, reports website newser.com. Nevertheless, Whitlock is tirelessly pursuing approval for bacterial treatments for skin conditions and wounds. AOBiome also recently released a bacteria-based shower gel and shampoo. Though what use those products are for someone who hasn’t showered in 12 years remain unclear.
