I Used to Sweat So A lot Throughout the Summer time—Then a Dermatologist Taught Me This

Questioning how one can cease sweating a lot? You are not alone, even when extreme perspiration—and customary negative effects like evening sweats, physique pimples, and thigh chafing—make you are feeling remoted.

I do know as a result of I’ve handled my justifiable share of undesirable sweat: I can not put on basis within the warmth with out setting powder and spray (and typically I’m nonetheless fortunate if make-up stays on), and I stay and swear by antichafing lotions (extra on these under).

Moreover, hyperhidrosis, which is the medical time period for extreme sweating unrelated to warmth, train, nervousness, or stress, impacts about 15 million individuals day by day within the US. Even with out a hyperhidrosis analysis, sweating total is a wonderfully pure—and wholesome—bodily perform, and a few individuals merely expertise extra of it than others, like me on my morning commute.

So, in case you’re something like me, and perpetually wiping your face and again (and wherever else) after strolling open air for prolonged durations of time, here is how I—and dermatologists—take care of extra sweat.

Why am I sweating a lot?

First, let’s handle why some individuals appear to sweat greater than others. “Sweat is a normal reaction by our body to excrete toxins and regulate optimal body temperature in situations such as high heat, intense exercising, or acute stress,” board-certified beauty dermatologist Michele Inexperienced, MD, tells Glamour, reiterating that typically, this response is solely stronger in sure people. “The sweat glands are signaled to show off as soon as the physique is faraway from the scenario. This sign by no means happens for some people, and the sweat glands proceed to supply sweat.”

As for why that is? “People sweat at different rates due to a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences,” says Jody Alpert Levine, MD, board-certified dermatologist and director of dermatology at Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC. “The number of sweat glands, their activity, and the response to stimuli can vary among individuals. Some people may have a higher number of sweat glands or more active glands, leading to increased sweating.”

Other factors can play a role too, such as an overactive thyroid, anxiety, a genetic predisposition, neurological conditions, and medication side effects, adds Dr. Green. So no: It’s not that you personally are doing anything wrong (except maybe sitting outside in the sun for too long).

When to see a doctor for sweating

All of that said, there are signs for when it’s time to see a doctor for sweating. “If someone is experiencing excessive sweating that significantly affects their quality of life or if over-the-counter products have not been effective, they should consult a board-certified dermatologist,” says Dr. Levine. “Signs that indicate a need for prescription-strength products include severe sweating that interferes with daily activities, no improvement with over-the-counter solutions, or excessive sweating during sleep.”

A dermatologist can assess the severity of the sweating and recommend appropriate treatments, Dr. Levine adds, which may include prescription-strength antiperspirants or other therapies (which are discussed in depth below).

How to Stop Sweating so Much

While it’s never someone’s fault that they’re sweating, per se, there are a handful of lifestyle changes, over-the-counter products, and in-office treatments and procedures that can help alleviate excessive sweating, ranging from moisture-wicking fabric to Botox for sweat.

Wear light colors and moisture-wicking clothing.

In terms of lifestyle changes, Dr. Green suggests wearing light colors and fabrics (think whites and light pastels; not black or navy), as they reflect the sun’s rays and therefore limit heat absorption and body temperature, as well as loose-fitting and moisture-wicking clothing. (My personal tip? Sport some ThighSociety cooling shorts under a skirt or dress.) This will not only help curb excess sweat but aid in preventing the risk of developing sweat-induced acne, skin chafing, and rashes.

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Restrict consumption of spicy meals and caffeine.

An alternative choice? Attempt limiting your consumption of spicy meals and caffeine (I do know, I am sorry). “Spicy foods containing peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin that raises body temperature, causing your body to produce sweat, and excessive amounts of caffeine can affect your central nervous system, leading to induced sweating,” Dr. Inexperienced explains. “Cutting back on spicy foods and caffeine can help decrease sweat production factors.” This doesn’t suggest you must lower all of them out in fact: I’ve merely switched to consuming decaf and matcha.

Take frequent showers.

It is also essential to take frequent showers after exercises and spending time in sizzling environments, Dr. Inexperienced provides. “Sweat, dirt, and bacteria can all be trapped on the skin by sweaty clothes, leading to breakouts,” she explains. “Using ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids effectively addresses inflammatory acne, such as sweat acne, by removing dead skin cells and reducing sebum production.” This does not essentially cease the energetic sweating (until you go for a chilly bathe) however may help stop the less-than-ideal negative effects that may include sweat.