Sweating is awkward. That moment when you raise your arm and panic about stains, or shake hands and hope yours isn't clammy. Whether it's Mumbai's brutal humidity, Delhi's oven-like heat, or just your body betraying you before a big meeting, excessive sweating sucks. But after talking to dermatologists and experts, here's the good news: you can take control. No impractical hacks, just practical fixes that actually work for Indian guys.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
A medical term for excessive sweating, hyperhidrosis basically means that your body is sweating more than normal. "It’s a condition where the sweat glands become overactive, leading to sweating that’s beyond what’s necessary for thermoregulation," says Dr. Debeshi, Medical Head & Founder of Lueur Aesthetics. It can affect palms, soles, underarms, face, and even scalp. According to experts, there are multiple reasons which trigger the condition. "Stress, anxiety, heat and humidity, physical exertion and certain types of food and beverages, clothing and hormonal changes can be potential triggers for the condition," says Dr. Sravya C. Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist at Manipal Hospital, Bangalore.
How to Manage?
Antiperspirants: These are the first line of defense. "Look for clinical-strength antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride hexahydrate," says Dr Tipirneni. She also suggests using it on clean, dry skin at night before bed for best results, allowing them to work while you sleep. "Wash off in the morning and reapply if needed," she adds.
Regular Washing and Drying: Experts suggest washing and drying the problem area frequently as it helps curb sweat-causing bacteria. "It helps in reducing odour also. Ensure you dry the skin thoroughly after washing," says Tipirneni.
Change in Clothing Fabrics: Wear cotton, breathable fabric. Dr Debeshi suggests using sweat-wicking undershirts, and staying hydrated. You can also opt for linen and bamboo fabric for summers when sweating is in excess to allow sweat to evaporate. If your feet also sweat, then choose absorbent socks made of cotton or wool and change them frequently throughout the day. Consider wearing open-toed shoes when possible. Dr Tipirneni suggests using absorbent shoe inserts can help wick away moisture and reduce odour in shoes.
Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress and anxiety, which can trigger sweating.
Avoid Triggers: Identify and try to minimise exposure to your personal triggers such as wearing a particular type of shoe, eating spicy food or caffeine, stressful situations etc.
Drying Powders: Cornstarch-based powders or medicated powders can help absorb moisture in areas like the underarms, feet and even around neck and back.
Can Botox Be A Solution?
While we know of the treatment for fixing wrinkles and tightening of the skin, that's not all. Botox can also be a treatment for treating hyperhidrosis. "It blocks the nerve signals responsible for sweat production. Its results last for six to nine months," says Dr Debeshi. These work by injecting botox (Botulinum Toxin) into the underarms, palms, soles, or face to block the nerves that stimulate sweat glands in those specific areas. It's also quick, painless and has no downtime.
Additionally, Dr Tipirneni also suggests Iontophoresi. "This is a procedure that uses a mild electrical current to temporarily block sweat glands. It's commonly used for sweating of the hands and feet and requires regular sessions," she adds.
