How to Improve Excessive Armpit Sweating
There’s nothing discrete about excessive armpit sweating. And with the obvious wet or sweat-stained clothing and worrisome body odor with summer approaching, it’s easy to feel uncomfortable, frustrated, and embarrassed.
Excessive armpit sweating is a condition known as axillary hyperhidrosis, and more people deal with this condition than you think. There is good news, though. If you’re living with axillary hyperhidrosis, there are ways you can help reduce frustrating excessive armpit sweating:
Use an Antiperspirant
Antiperspirants are your first line of defense when it comes to excessive armpit sweating problems. There are various forms of antiperspirants—ranging from regular to clinical-strength over-the-counter antiperspirants to prescription-level antiperspirants.
Antiperspirants contain aluminum salts that essentially sit on top of the sweat glands to block perspiration.
Opt for Lightweight Clothing
Heavy or tight-fitting clothing can increase perspiration. By wearing lighter clothing, both in weight and in color, you’re allowing your skin more oxygen to breathe.
It’s important you also select clothing made from moisture-wicking, breathable materials, so they work with your sweating by absorbing it, rather than leaving it to sit on your skin and build odor-inducing bacteria.
PRO TIP: Look for materials like cotton, wool, silk, or polypro.
Keep Hydrated
We all know that hydration is key to overall health, but you may not realize how helpful it is for your body’s natural cooling system. Reach for that water bottle as often as possible!
Avoid Sweat-Triggering Foods
While you may enjoy a spicy lunch at work or happy hour cocktails at the end of a long work day, you may not appreciate how they encourage more body sweating.
Spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol all promote perspiration. Steering clear of these sweat-triggering foods may help you reduce profuse armpit sweating.
Ask a Doctor about Oral & Topical Medications
If the above “at-home” remedies for reducing excessive armpit sweating don’t offer you relief, it may be time to consult your primary doctor or dermatologist.
There are various anticholinergic medications, both topical and oral, that stop the activation of sweat glands. Be sure to consult with your doctor about whether anticholinergics are a suitable treatment for you.
Try BOTOX® Injections
While BOTOX® is often associated with smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, these injections are particularly helpful at temporarily preventing the nerves from stimulating the sweat glands that produce sweat.
It may take a few injection treatments, but the sweat-reducing results typically last anywhere from six months to a year!
Be sure to talk with a dermatologist who specializes in administering injections specifically for excessive sweating.
Any further questions pertaining to excessive armpit sweating? Give us a call to schedule your appointment at 954-666-3736!
