Eli5: Why do some smells like fuel oil or garlic stay on hands for hours even after extensive scrubbing and washing?

Question

Eli5: Why do some smells like fuel oil or garlic stay on hands for hours even after extensive scrubbing and washing?

In: 1482

Answer 1

I find, like with onions for instance, that using cold water to wash my hands helps more than hot water to take away the smell. Could be similar with garlic and other stuff.