What’s the modern solution to sweating? The obvious answer is anti-perspirants. Or is it deodorants? Or both? What’s the difference anyway?

 

There is such a vast array of products available, these days, it can be difficult to know where to turn. For the average person, the huge choice can be confusing. But for sufferers of excessive sweating, it can be bewildering. For a start, you’re not just looking for an okay product that works reasonably well - you need a highly effective solution. So what is the best product to relieve symptoms of excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis?

 

Firstly, it is useful to know the difference between anti-perspirant and deodorant. The job of a deodorant is to cover up the smell of sweat. Although this can eliminate one of the embarrassing aspects of excessive sweating (i.e. body odour), it will do little to reduce the amount of sweat. So you will still be left with the dreaded sweat stains or wet clothing. Plus, some deodorants contain alcohol which can initially stimulate sweating.

 

An anti-perspirant, on the other hand, is more effective in actually reducing the amount of sweat released by the body. Though anti-perspirants vary in form, gel or wax based etc., they all contain an active ingredient. This is usually a metallic salt, e.g. aluminium-based compounds), which acts as a ‘sweat-blocker’. These salts work by causing the cells in sweat glands to swell with water. This squeezes the ducts closed so sweat can’t get out. And since many anti-perspirants also contain deodorants, this should be the more effective option for combating sweat.

 

But how effective an option is it? Does it come close to dealing with the symptoms of excessive sweating? Well, for anyone suffering from hyperhidrosis, anti-perspirants are often the first resort. And, happily, for many, they do work, to a degree. Their effectiveness depends, however, on the severity of the condition and the strength of the anti-perspirant. Over-the-counter products are restricted to lower levels of active ingredients. These may be suitable for underarm sweating but less so for sweating of the hands and feet. Plus they may be too strong for the sensitive skin on the face.

 

For those who find the over-the-counter anti-perspirants ineffective, it’s possible to get stronger ones on prescription. And since hyperhidrosis is a recognised medical condition, enlisting the advice and support of your doctor could be a very useful step.

 

Whichever products you choose, however, the effects are only temporary. Anti-perspirants need to be applied at regular intervals. There are also varying results depending on when and how you apply them. For example, some claim that applying the anti-perspirant in the evening in more effective than in the morning (although applying both times is considered ideal.) Also, it is important to apply the anti-perspirant to dry skin which is not irritated. (Though it goes without saying that for prescription products, you should follow the enclosed instructions.)

 

So, it’s possible that anti-perspirants could be a solution to your excessive sweating problems. Despite their limitations, they are a relatively safe, cheap and easy option. Even if you have to experiment with strengths, brands, applications etc., they are definitely worth considering before pursuing more complex treatments such as Botox injections, Iontopheris or surgery.

 

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Filed under: Article by Matt