Sweat Smarts: Proven Ways to Limit Underarm Sweat
If all else fails, there’s always Sweatox.
Excessive sweating in the underarms can be more than just a nuisance—it can have a significant impact on both your body and your confidence. Known as axillary hyperhidrosis, this condition can lead to embarrassing sweat stains, unpleasant body odor, and even social anxiety. But fear not (and sweat not?), because there are plenty of ways to keep your underarms dry and comfortable.
Am I Sweating Normally?
Here are some signs you may be dealing with excessive underarm sweating:
- You mostly sweat from the underarms while the rest of your body seems dry.
- You sweat even when you’re not exercising or moving.
- You sweat even when it’s not too hot.
- Your skin stays wet for a long time, causing signs of irritation like redness, itching, and discomfort.
- You experience strong or persistent body odor due to the accumulation of sweat and bacteria in the underarm area despite practicing good hygiene.
If you experience any or all of these, you’re likely suffering from hyperhidrosis. This medical condition can also affect other areas of the body, such as the hands, feet, and the head. Dr. Maximin Navarro, resident dermatologist at Bella Pelle Skin Solutions and a fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society, says, “For patients with axillary, palmar [hand] or plantar [feet] hyperhidrosis, we must rule out medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism or hyperactivity of the thyroid gland and other diseases, which can increase the metabolic rate of the patient resulting to hyperhidrosis.”
How to Control Underarm Sweat
While individuals with axillary hyperhidrosis may require more extensive sweat-controlling measures than normal people, these tried-and-tested methods can help:
- Cleanse your underarms thoroughly
Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for keeping underarm skin healthy since regular cleansing can remove the build-up of sweat, dirt, and product residue, allowing the optimum efficacy of your antiperspirant. It is also important in controlling bromhidrosis or body odor, which can also be caused by not washing properly, infections, diet, medications, and inherited metabolic disorders. “Bromhidrois may be associated with hyperhidrosis,” says Dr. Navarro.
Aside from showering regularly, Dr. Navarro advises: “You may use an antibacterial wash containing chlorehixidine or povidone iodine to cleanse the affected area. And avoid using a fragranced antiperspirant; instead, use a hypoallergenic antiperspirant.”
- Choose the right antiperspirant
When it comes to combating underarm sweat, not all antiperspirants are created equal. Look for products containing aluminum chloride, which effectively blocks sweat ducts and reduces sweating. Opt for clinical-strength formulas for maximum effectiveness. Additionally, consider applying antiperspirant at night before bed to allow it to fully penetrate the skin and provide long-lasting protection.
Try: MD Therapy LumiDerm Ultimate Lightening Deodorant, P1,080, a premium underarm treatment that provides all-day protection from sweating and odor while also lightening the skin.
- Wear breathable fabrics
The type of clothing you wear can significantly impact underarm sweating. Choose light fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo, which allow for better airflow and help keep you cool and dry. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, which trap heat and moisture, exacerbating underarm sweat.
- Ask your derma for medication
“Topical aluminum chloride solution is the initial treatment in most cases of primary focal hyperhidrosis,” says Dr. Navarro. Some doctors may also recommend using a prescription cream with glycopyrrolate, an ingredient which has a perspiration suppression effect. “Topical glycopyrrolate is first-line treatment for craniofacial sweating or sweating of the face, head, and scalp,” explains Dr. Navarro.
Want a long-term solution? Try Botox for underarms (Sweatox)
If you’re keen on enjoying serious sweat control that lasts for a long time, Botulinum toxin injections for the underarms, also known as Sweatox, can be highly effective. Sweatox works by blocking the signals that trigger sweat production, leading to a significant reduction in underarm sweating for several months (usually four to six months). While it may require periodic maintenance injections, Sweatox can provide lasting relief for individuals with severe hyperhidrosis.
You can read more about Sweatox—including what to expect from the actual procedure—here.
Bella Pelle Skin Solutions is located 2/F L Building, #142 Katipunan, Brgy. Saint Ignatius, Quezon City. The center is open Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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