WHAT IS HYPERHIDROSIS? UNDERSTAND THE CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND SWEAT SOLUTIONS THAT WORK

Let’s talk sweat. Not just the kind you get from workouts or summer heat. This is something different. If you find yourself sweating through shirts even when you’re calm, cool, and indoors, you might be dealing with a medical condition called hyperhidrosis.

So what is hyperhidrosis? It’s a condition that causes excessive sweating beyond what your body needs to cool down.¹ It can affect specific areas like your underarms, hands, feet, or face, and it can happen for no apparent reason—even when you’re not exercising or feeling hot.

The good news? There are real ways to manage it without putting your life on hold.

HYPERHIDROSIS SYMPTOMS: HOW TO TELL IF YOUR SWEAT IS MORE THAN NORMAL

Everyone sweats. But hyperhidrosis has some telltale signs that go beyond the usual:²

• Sweat that soaks through clothing multiple times a day
• Visible beads of sweat, even in cool environments
• Clammy palms or soles of the feet
• Sweating that interferes with work, social situations, or daily activities
• Skin irritation or infections from constant dampness

These symptoms can pop up during a big meeting, while commuting, or even just sitting still. And while it’s not dangerous, it can feel uncomfortable and affect your confidence.

HYPERHIDROSIS: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES?

There are two main types of hyperhidrosis:³

• Primary (focal) hyperhidrosis. The most common form, causing excessive sweating in specific areas like the underarms, hands, feet, or face. It usually starts in childhood or adolescence, often runs in families, and happens symmetrically (both hands, both feet, etc.). Sweating typically occurs during the day and isn’t linked to another medical condition.
• Secondary (generalized) hyperhidrosis. This affects the entire body or large areas and is caused by another issue, such as medications, perimenopause, menopause, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or infections. It may start suddenly in adulthood and can occur both day and night.

HOW TO DIAGNOSE HYPERHIDROSIS

If you think your sweating may be more than just normal, a doctor can help confirm if it's hyperhidrosis. They’ll usually start by asking about your symptoms and when they occur and may perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions. In some cases, a “sweat test” might be used to measure how much you sweat and where. Early diagnosis is key to getting effective treatment and improving your daily comfort.

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR HYPERHIDROSIS

There’s no one-size-fits-all fix for hyperhidrosis, but there are plenty of options that can help manage it. For many, the first step is a clinical-strength antiperspirant or a topical cream that helps dry out sweat-prone areas, usually applied at night for the best results. If sweating affects more than just one area, doctors may recommend a couple of different options.⁴

Oral medications target the whole body but if you’re looking for more long-term solutions, there are treatments like Botox injections, iontophoresis (a medical procedure involving a weak electrical current to block sweat glands) or microwave therapy (which targets sweat glands under the arms). In more severe cases, surgery may be explored as a last resort. And because living with excessive sweating can sometimes lead to stress or anxiety, talking to a mental health professional can also be a helpful part of your overall treatment plan.

CAN DIET OR SUPPLEMENTS HELP WITH HYPERHIDROSIS?

While research is still limited, some people with hyperhidrosis report that making small dietary changes can help reduce their sweating. Cutting back on spicy foods, caffeine, or alcohol may help, while staying hydrated and trying supplements like magnesium or B vitamins could support overall health. If you're considering natural options, talk to your doctor before making major changes to your routine.

IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HYPERHIDROSIS DEODORANT AND ANTIPERSPIRANT?

If you’re managing hyperhidrosis, knowing the difference between deodorant products can help you find the right fit for your routine.

Deodorant

Deodorants are designed to fight odor, not sweat. They work by neutralizing odor-causing bacteria and adding fragrance, but they won’t actually stop your body from sweating. If odor is your main concern but you’re not dealing with heavy sweat, a deodorant may be enough. For hyperhidrosis, it’s usually not.

Antiperspirant

Antiperspirants go a step further. They use aluminum-based compounds to temporarily block sweat glands and reduce how much you sweat. For everyday sweating, over-the-counter antiperspirants can be effective, especially those labeled “clinical” or “extra-strength.”

Prescription antiperspirant

For more serious cases of sweating, like hyperhidrosis, a prescription or specialty antiperspirant for hyperhidrosis may be recommended. These often contain aluminum chloride hexahydrate as the active ingredient. For underarms, formulas typically range from 10% to 15% concentration. For sweatier areas like hands or feet, higher-strength versions (up to 30%) may be needed.⁵ These products can be very effective but may cause irritation if not used as directed, so always follow the instructions from your healthcare professional carefully.

OTHER SWEAT-FIGHTING STRATEGIES THAT HELP WITH HYPERHIDROSIS

In addition to the right hyperhidrosis antiperspirant, here are a few small changes that can make a big difference:

• Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothes
• Layer clothes strategically. Darker colors hide sweat better
• Use absorbent underarm pads if needed
• Keep a spare shirt in your gym bag or car just in case

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR ABOUT HYPERHIDROSIS

If excessive sweating is interfering with your daily life, causing skin problems, or making you feel self-conscious despite using clinical-strength products, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor. You should also seek medical advice if the sweating started suddenly, affects your whole body, or happens at night, as these could be signs of an underlying condition. A healthcare provider can help you identify the cause and explore advanced treatment options that go beyond over-the-counter solutions.

FAQs

What’ s the best treatment for hyperhidrosis?

It depends on the severity. For many people, a clinical-strength antiperspirant is the first line of defence. In more persistent cases, doctors may recommend prescription treatments, Botox injections, oral medications, or procedures like iontophoresis or microwave therapy.

What triggers hyperhidrosis?

Triggers can vary. For primary hyperhidrosis, it’s often unrelated to external factors. But in secondary hyperhidrosis, triggers can include certain medications, medical conditions, menopause, stress, or spicy food.

How do I stop sweating so much?

Start with a strong antiperspirant and apply it at night. Wear breathable fabrics, keep cool, and avoid known triggers. If sweat is still interfering with your day-to-day, speak to a healthcare provider about advanced treatment options.

How rare is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is more common than you might think. It affects about 4.8% of the U.S. population²—that’s over 15 million people. So, if you’re dealing with it, you’re definitely not alone.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE IN SWEAT MODE

Hyperhidrosis might feel like a constant battle, but the right tools can help you fight it. Whether it’s switching to a clinical-strength antiperspirant, or learning to apply it at the right time, the key is finding what works for your lifestyle. Don’t let sweat slow you down.

References:

1. Mayo Clinic. “Hyperhidrosis: Symptoms and Causes.” 2023.

2. Cleveland Clinic. “Hyperhidrosis.” 2023.

3. International Hyperhidrosis Society. “Two Types of Hyperhidrosis.” 2023.

4. Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis).” 2023.

5. International Hyperhidrosis Society. “Antiperspirant Basics.” 2023.