What to Do About Excessive Sweating?

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can interfere with your daily life, making social interactions, work, and even leisure activities challenging. While sweating is a normal body function to regulate temperature, hyperhidrosis occurs when the body produces more sweat than necessary, often affecting the underarms, hands, feet, or face.

You might be asking, “What can I do about excessive sweating?” The good news is that there are several dermatologist-approved treatments and lifestyle strategies that can help manage this condition effectively. From prescription antiperspirants and Botox to innovative solutions like miraDry, your options are varied and can be tailored to your needs.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best approaches to controlling excessive sweating and give practical tips for long-term relief.

Understanding Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition where your body produces more sweat than necessary for regulating temperature. This can be frustrating and sometimes embarrassing, especially when it affects everyday activities like shaking hands, holding objects, or choosing clothing. Understanding the type of hyperhidrosis you have is the first step toward effective management.

Primary Hyperhidrosis
Primary hyperhidrosis occurs without any underlying medical condition. It’s caused by overactive sweat glands that send too many signals to produce sweat. This type usually targets specific areas such as your underarms, hands, feet, or face. Many people notice it beginning in adolescence or early adulthood, and it can significantly affect social interactions, work life, and self-confidence. Because it is localized, treatments are often targeted to the affected areas, making therapies like topical agents or Botox highly effective.

Secondary Hyperhidrosis
Secondary hyperhidrosis happens when excessive sweating is triggered by another medical condition or medication. Common causes include thyroid disorders, diabetes, menopause, or certain medications such as antidepressants or steroids. Unlike primary hyperhidrosis, secondary hyperhidrosis typically affects larger areas of the body and may occur both during the day and night. Treating the underlying condition is often an important part of controlling the sweating, alongside therapies specifically designed to reduce sweat.

Identifying whether your hyperhidrosis is primary or secondary is crucial, because it determines which treatment approach will be most effective for you. Consulting with a dermatologist allows you to receive a thorough assessment, rule out any underlying conditions, and develop a personalised hyperhidrosis treatment plan in London that is both safe and effective.

Dermatologist-Approved Treatments

If you struggle with excessive sweating, you’ll be glad to know there are several medical options that can help. The right treatment for you depends on how much sweat you’re dealing with, how long you want relief to last, and how comfortable you are with different approaches.

1. Prescription Antiperspirants

These are stronger than the ones you can grab off the shelf because they contain aluminium chloride, which temporarily blocks your sweat glands. For the best results, you’ll want to apply them at night on clean, dry skin this gives the active ingredients time to work while you sleep.

Benefits:

• You can use them at home without any invasive procedures.
• They work well if your sweating is mild to moderate, especially in your underarms.
• They are relatively affordable and don’t require special equipment.
• You might notice results in as little as a few days, although full effects can take a couple of weeks.

Considerations:

• You might notice some skin irritation, redness, or itching at first. A thin layer is usually enough to minimise this.
• Be consistent these products only work if you use them regularly. Skipping applications can reduce their effectiveness.
• Avoid applying right after shaving or on broken skin, as this can increase irritation.
• If you have sensitive skin, consider using a gentle moisturizer before applying the antiperspirant in the morning to reduce dryness.

Pro Tip: Start with a small area to see how your skin reacts, and gradually increase coverage if your skin tolerates it well. If irritation persists, speak with your dermatologist they can suggest alternatives or lower-strength options that still work effectively.

2. Oral Medications

If topical treatments aren’t cutting it, you might find relief with oral medications. Drugs called anticholinergics work by blocking the chemical signals that tell your sweat glands to go into overdrive.

Common options:

• Glycopyrrolate
• Oxybutynin

Benefits:

• They’re particularly useful if you have sweating in multiple areas, not just your underarms.
• You get a non-invasive alternative to injections or surgery.
• You don’t need to apply anything to your skin, which can be convenient if you find topical treatments irritating.

Considerations:

• These medications can have side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, or dizziness.
• They’re not suitable for everyone, especially if you have certain heart, eye, or gastrointestinal conditions.
• Your doctor will start you on the lowest effective dose and adjust based on how well it controls your sweating and how you tolerate it.

Pro Tip: If you try oral medications, stay hydrated and monitor for side effects. You can often manage mild dryness with sugar-free gum or regular sips of water.

3. Botox Injections

If your sweating is localized like underarms, hands, or feet Botox can be a game-changer. This treatment uses botulinum toxin type A to temporarily block the nerves that trigger your sweat glands.

How it works:

• Botox stops nerve signals from reaching your sweat glands, so they can’t overproduce sweat.
• Most people notice results within a few days, and effects usually last 4–12 months before you may need another round.

Benefits:

• Highly effective and minimally invasive.
• Quick results with minimal systemic side effects.
• You can go about your day almost immediately after treatment.

Considerations:

• Each treatment area requires multiple small injections, which can be uncomfortable.
• Some people experience temporary bruising or mild soreness at the injection sites.
• It’s more expensive than topical solutions, but many find the long-lasting results worth it.

Pro Tip: To reduce discomfort, your dermatologist can apply a numbing cream or use ice before the injections. Plan ahead so you can schedule touch-ups when needed to maintain results.

4. miraDry

If underarm sweating is your main concern, miraDry could be a great option. This non-invasive, in-office treatment uses microwave energy to permanently reduce sweat glands in your underarms.

Benefits:

• Provides a long-term reduction in underarm sweat, often noticeable after just one or two sessions.
• Quick recovery with minimal downtime you can usually get back to your routine the same day.
• Because it targets only the sweat glands, there are no systemic side effects.

Considerations:

• It’s only suitable for underarm hyperhidrosis, so it won’t help with hands, feet, or other areas.
• You might experience temporary swelling, numbness, or tenderness, which usually resolves in a few days.
• Some people need multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, depending on how severe their sweating is.

Pro Tip: Wear loose clothing and avoid heavy deodorants for a few days after treatment to reduce irritation. Most people find the mild discomfort well worth the long-term sweat relief.

5. Other Treatment Options

There are a few more approaches if your sweating doesn’t respond to the treatments above:

• Iontophoresis: This is especially useful for hands and feet. It works by passing a mild electrical current through water, which temporarily shuts down your sweat glands. You may need several sessions per week at first, then maintenance treatments every few weeks.
• Surgery (ETS – Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy): Considered a last-resort option, ETS is for severe cases where other treatments haven’t helped. It involves cutting or clamping certain nerves that trigger sweating. This can be very effective but carries risks and potential side effects, so it’s only recommended after careful discussion with your dermatologist.

Ultimately, your dermatologist will evaluate the severity of your sweating, where it occurs, and what fits best with your lifestyle to recommend the most suitable approach.

Pro Tip: Keep a short diary of your sweating patterns before your appointment. This helps your dermatologist understand which areas bother you most and which treatment might work best for you.

Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Excessive Sweating

Even if you’re using medical treatments, making a few lifestyle tweaks can help you stay more comfortable and get the best results.

• Wear breathable fabrics: Choosing cotton or moisture-wicking materials helps sweat evaporate and keeps you feeling dry. You’ll notice a big difference compared with synthetic fabrics that trap heat.
• Maintain good hygiene: Regular washing and using deodorants can prevent odor and bacterial buildup, which often makes sweating feel worse.
• Manage stress: Stress and anxiety can trigger sweat spikes. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even short walks can help you stay calmer and drier.
• Avoid triggers: Spicy foods, caffeine, and very hot environments can make sweating worse. Pay attention to your personal triggers and limit them where possible.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps regulate your body temperature and can make sweating feel more manageable.

By combining these lifestyle adjustments with professional treatments, you give yourself the best chance of controlling hyperhidrosis and staying comfortable in your daily life.

Pro Tip: Keep a small notebook or app to track what seems to trigger your sweating. Over time, you’ll see patterns and learn which strategies help you the most.

Recovery and Side Effects

Most hyperhidrosis treatments are well-tolerated, but it’s helpful to know what you might experience so you’re prepared.

• Prescription antiperspirants: You may notice mild skin irritation or itching, especially when you first start using them. Applying a thin layer and avoiding freshly shaved skin can reduce this.
• Oral medications: Some people experience dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, or dizziness. Staying hydrated and monitoring your symptoms can make these side effects easier to manage.
• Botox: After injections, you might have temporary bruising, redness, or mild discomfort at the treatment sites. These usually go away within a few days.
• miraDry: It’s common to have mild swelling, numbness, or tenderness under the arms, but these effects typically resolve within a few days.

Following your dermatologist’s guidance including aftercare instructions, dosage recommendations, and follow-up appointments can help you manage any side effects and ensure a safe, effective treatment experience.

Pro Tip: Keep a small journal of any side effects or changes you notice after treatment. This makes it easier to discuss with your dermatologist and adjust your care plan if needed.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

If your sweating is severe or persistent, you might benefit from using a combination of treatments. This approach can help you get the best results faster and keep you feeling more confident in your daily life.

• Topical antiperspirants: These are great for daily management and can be your first line of defence, especially for underarm sweating.
• Botox or miraDry: For long-lasting reduction, these treatments target the sweat glands directly and can give you relief for months at a time.
• Oral medications: If your sweating affects multiple areas, these can provide whole-body control when needed.

By working with your dermatologist to create a personalised treatment plan, you can address your unique needs, maximise results, and feel more confident in social and professional situations.

Pro Tip: Keep track of which treatments work best for you and how often you need touch-ups. This helps your dermatologist fine-tune your plan and keeps you on top of your sweat management.

When to See a Dermatologist

If excessive sweating is interfering with your life, it’s worth reaching out to a dermatologist. You don’t have to struggle on your own there are safe, effective treatments that can help. You should consider consulting a professional if you notice:

• Persistent sweating that affects your daily activities. Whether it’s leaving sweat marks on your clothes, making handshake anxiety worse, or limiting what you wear, sweating can impact your confidence and comfort.
• Sweating even in cool environments, when your body shouldn’t normally be producing sweat. This can be a sign of primary hyperhidrosis that might respond well to targeted treatment.
• Social or emotional distress caused by sweating. Feeling self-conscious, anxious, or avoiding social situations is more common than you might think and it’s completely valid to seek help.
• Over-the-counter antiperspirants not working, leaving you frustrated despite trying multiple products. When standard solutions aren’t enough, professional guidance can make a big difference.

A dermatologist can evaluate the severity, location, and triggers of your sweating, helping you find a treatment plan that’s tailored to your lifestyle and needs. With the right approach, you can reduce sweat, feel more comfortable, and regain your confidence in everyday situations.

Pro Tip: Before your appointment, consider keeping a short diary of your sweating patterns when it happens, what triggers it, and how it affects you. This gives your dermatologist valuable insight and helps them recommend the most effective treatments for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Excessive Sweating:

1. What causes excessive sweating?
Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, can be caused by overactive sweat glands that produce more sweat than your body needs to regulate temperature. In some cases, this is due to primary hyperhidrosis, where the glands themselves are overactive without an underlying condition. Secondary hyperhidrosis occurs when another factor triggers excessive sweating, such as a medical condition, hormonal changes, or certain medications. Understanding the cause is important because it helps determine the most effective treatment approach for you.

2. Is hyperhidrosis dangerous?
Hyperhidrosis is generally not dangerous in a physical sense, but it can significantly impact your quality of life. You may feel self-conscious, anxious, or avoid certain social and professional situations. Sweating excessively can also lead to skin irritation or infections in areas that stay damp for long periods. Seeking treatment is more about improving comfort, confidence, and day-to-day functioning than addressing a life-threatening condition.

3. How do I know if my sweating is normal or hyperhidrosis?
Normal sweating typically happens in response to heat, exercise, or stress, and stops once your body cools down. Hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, happens even when your body doesn’t need to cool down, and it can affect specific areas like your underarms, hands, feet, or face. If you notice persistent sweating that interferes with your daily activities or emotional well-being, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.

4. Can lifestyle changes alone manage excessive sweating?
Lifestyle changes can certainly help reduce the impact of sweating, but they usually aren’t enough on their own for moderate to severe hyperhidrosis. Choosing breathable fabrics, avoiding known triggers, managing stress, and staying hydrated can make a noticeable difference, but combining these habits with medical treatments often provides the most consistent and long-lasting relief.

5. Are prescription antiperspirants safe?
Prescription-strength antiperspirants are generally safe when used as directed. They contain higher concentrations of aluminium chloride, which temporarily blocks sweat glands. Some people may experience mild skin irritation, redness, or itching at first, but this usually subsides as your skin adjusts. Applying the product to clean, dry skin at night and avoiding freshly shaved or broken skin can help minimise any discomfort.

6. How long do Botox treatments for sweating last?
Botox treatments typically provide relief from excessive sweating for about four to twelve months. Most people notice results within a few days of treatment, and the effects gradually wear off over time. The duration can vary depending on the individual and the area being treated, so repeat sessions are often scheduled to maintain consistent results. Your dermatologist will help determine the best timing for follow-ups based on your response to the treatment.

7. Can miraDry permanently stop underarm sweating?
Yes, miraDry can provide a long-term reduction in underarm sweat by using microwave energy to target and destroy sweat glands in the treated area. While results are often noticeable after one or two sessions, the procedure may require multiple treatments depending on the severity of your sweating. Most people experience minimal downtime and find the results life-changing, but it is specifically designed for underarm hyperhidrosis and does not treat other areas like hands or feet.

8. Are oral medications effective for controlling whole-body sweating?
Oral medications, such as anticholinergics, can be effective for managing generalized sweating that affects multiple areas of the body. They work by blocking the chemical signals that stimulate your sweat glands. While these medications can be very helpful, they may cause side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, or dizziness. Your dermatologist will start you on the lowest effective dose and monitor how you respond to ensure a balance between effectiveness and tolerability.

9. When should I consider surgery for hyperhidrosis?
Surgery, specifically endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), is generally considered a last-resort option for severe hyperhidrosis that hasn’t responded to other treatments. This procedure involves cutting or clamping certain nerves to reduce sweating and can be highly effective. However, it carries potential risks and side effects, so it’s only recommended after thorough consultation with a dermatologist or surgeon who can help you weigh the benefits against the possible complications.

10. How do I choose the right treatment for me?
Choosing the right treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of your sweating, the areas affected, your personal lifestyle, and how comfortable you are with different procedures. A dermatologist will assess your condition, discuss all available options from prescription antiperspirants and oral medications to Botox, miraDry, and surgical interventions and help you develop a personalised plan. Combining medical treatments with lifestyle adjustments often gives the best long-term results and helps you regain confidence in daily activities.

Final Thoughts: Managing Excessive Sweating Effectively

Excessive sweating can significantly impact your daily life, but there are numerous ways to manage it effectively. Topical treatments, oral medications, Botox injections, and advanced procedures like miraDry each offer unique benefits depending on the severity and location of your sweating. Lifestyle adjustments, such as wearing breathable fabrics, managing stress, and avoiding triggers, can further enhance results.

Finding the right combination of treatments is crucial, as what works for one person may not be ideal for another. Factors such as the areas affected, your lifestyle, and any underlying medical conditions will influence which approach is best suited for you.

If you’re considering excessive sweating treatment in London, contact us at London Dermatology Centre to book a consultation with one of our specialists. Our expert dermatologists will assess your condition, discuss your goals, and create a personalised plan to help you achieve long-term comfort and confidence in everyday life.

References:

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2. McConaghy, J.R. and Fosselman, D., 2018. Hyperhidrosis: management options. American Family Physician, 97(11), pp.729–734. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30215934/

3. Gorelick, J. and Friedman, A., 2020. Diagnosis and management of primary hyperhidrosis: practical guidance and current therapy update. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 19(7), pp.704–710. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32726555/

4. Brackenrich, J. and Medeus, C.F., 2022. Hyperhidrosis. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459227/ 5. Dadarkhah, A., 2022. ‘A review of hyperhidrosis treatment methods’. Journal of Advanced Medical Research, 10(4), pp. 45–52. Available at: https://brieflands.com/articles/jamm-120639