Apocrine sweat glands are a type of sweat gland found mainly in areas like the armpits and groin. They are larger than eccrine sweat glands and produce a thicker, milky secretion that is rich in proteins and lipids. These glands become active during puberty and are associated with body odor, as the sweat they produce is broken down by bacteria on the skin. Unlike eccrine sweat glands, which help regulate body temperature through water-based sweat, apocrine glands are primarily activated by emotional stress or hormonal changes. Their secretions are released into hair follicles rather than directly onto the skin's surface.