Underarm sweat, otherwise known as axillary hyperhidrosis, is a common concern for many individuals. While sweating is perfectly normal and, in fact, an essential bodily function, excessive underarm sweating can pose an embarrassment and nuisance for many.
It’s not just about the damp armpit stains that can readily form on your clothes. Underarm sweat also makes you susceptible to body odor. Fortunately, there are effective methods to bring this issue under control. Read on for ways on how to stop underarm sweat and restore your confidence.
Understanding Underarm Sweating
Before delving into the solution for excessive underarm sweating, it’s crucial to develop a fundamental understanding of why it happens. Eccrine and apocrine glands are responsible for our sweating. Eccrine glands are present throughout the body and produce sweat primarily made of water and salts. In contrast, apocrine glands present in our underarms and groin region produce a milkier sweat that can smell more when it reacts with bacteria on our skin.
The stimulation of these glands, causing sweating, comes mainly from heat and exercise. However, emotions such as stress, fear, and excitement can also drive sweating. However, individuals suffering from hyperhidrosis sweat profusely without any such triggers.
Sweat Management Techniques
Simple lifestyle changes can often make a significant difference in managing underarm sweat:
- An Effective Antiperspirant: A strong antiperspirant with a high aluminum concentration can effectively manage underarm sweating by temporarily blocking the sweat ducts.
- Proper Hygiene: Daily showers help remove the bacteria on your skin which helps in reducing body odor.
- Wardrobe Choices: Wearing light, breathable fabrics like cotton and avoiding tight clothing can prevent excessive sweating. Also, sticking to lighter colors or patterned shirts can help hide sweat stains.
- Dietary Adjustments: Spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine can stimulate sweat glands. Reducing their intake can help control sweating.
Medical Advances: Hyperhidrosis Treatment
Despite lifestyle changes and proper hygiene, some people may still struggle with excessive underarm sweat. In such cases, a visit to a dermatologist can be highly beneficial. Medical treatments can offer relief, ranging from prescription antiperspirants and medications to more invasive procedures such as Botox injections.
One common misconception is that these treatments are focused only on tackling excessive underarm sweat. However, medical field advancements have given rise to a technique commonly named “hyperhidrosis treatment full body”. As the name suggests, this treatment addresses excessive sweating not only in the underarms but throughout the entire body.
IONTOPHORESIS
One such hyperhidrosis treatment full body method is iontophoresis. Iontophoresis involves a small electrical current passed through water onto the skin to disrupt sweat production temporarily. This treatment often requires multiple sessions and can effectively reduce sweating in various parts of the body.
BOTOX
Botox injections are another beneficial hyperhidrosis treatment full body approach regularly used in managing underarm sweat. Botox works by blocking the nerves that trigger your sweat glands. Usually, every underarm needs about 15-20 injections for effective sweat control.
Do remember, considering medical treatment should not be your first step, but rather the last resort if basic sweat management techniques prove ineffective. Sweating is a natural bodily function, and an appropriate amount is completely healthy. Visit your dermatologist to discuss the best way to balance your sweating to suit your lifestyle and comfort.