Despite how necessary and normal sweating is as a human function, for some people, it can be excessive. This can cause not just discomfort and embarrassment, but possibly more severe skin-related issues if left unaddressed.
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp of MDCS Dermatology in New York and New Jersey, excessive sweating, also called hyperhidrosis, “can put the skin at risk of maceration or the breakdown of the outermost layers of the epidermis and affect the barrier function of skin.”
This constant moisture and compromised skin barrier function can “create an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal growth, leading to skin infections such as folliculitis and ringworm,” said Rutherford, New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aanand Geria.
He explained that the causes of hyperhidrosis can be anything from emotional stress to genetics to side effects of certain medications.
So how do you know if the amount that you sweat is considered excessive?
“One of the most obvious signs is visible wetness, especially in the underarms, back, or chest area, even when you are not exercising or in a warm environment,” Geria said.
Camp added that if you’re finding that your sweat is causing disruptions in your ability to complete daily activities or leading to social withdrawal, then it might also be time to speak with a medical professional.
Until then, Camp, Geria and Southern California-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Divya Shokeen say that there are reasonably affordable and accessible over the counter solutions that can help reduce and absorb perspiration, thus allowing you to feel more confident and comfortable.
Learn more about their suggestions in the list below, which include products such as a sweat-minimizing scalp serum, vitamin-infused body powders and an antiperspirant hand cream — all of which you can snag just in time for the summer heat.
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"This body powder is talc-free and contains aloe and vitamins A, C and E," Camp said of the Gold Bond comfort powder, which can also help the look and feel of skin as well as offer odor control.
who called this moisture-preventative and starch-free powder "a game-changer for absorbing excessive moisture under the breasts or around the feet."
Shokeen also said that you can apply this highly absorbent formula inside socks to help minimize the development of yeast and excess moisture while also preventing irritation as a result of skin friction.
uppermost part of the sweat duct. The result is drier skin and fewer sweat marks.
He likes this 24-hour formula because it's ideal for sensitive skin as it is fragrance-, dye-, and paraben-free. Shokeen said that the optimal application time for strong over-the-counter antiperspirants is at night. According to a dermatologist for Dove, this is because your body temperature drops at night and you sweat less, making it easier for the product to get absorbed into your skin and be most effective.
These highly rated athletic T-shirts are made from a soft quick-dry fabric that's ultra-breathable and can help manage moisture. They are available in up to 15 colors and men's sizes S-3XL and women's sizes S-2XL.
According to Columbia University's Center for Hyperhidrosis, witch hazel works by helping to close pores, thus prevent excess sweating. It can be applied directly to your skin on areas where you sweat using a cotton pad.
stains. They are made from a soft, breathable and compostable cotton and have an adhesive underside to stay secure on the inside of your clothing. This pack comes with 10 pairs of disposable pads.