Tips to control "excessive sweating"

The body secretes sweat due to high temperatures, during exercise, or even psychological stress, but excessive sweating in the absence of these causes may mean a condition called "hyperhidrosis."

This type of excessive sweating “can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life,” says Dr. Shoshana Marmon, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at New York Medical College and the American Academy of Dermatology.

She added that it is not only annoying to see sweat on clothes or beads of sweat on the body, but it has an emotional impact "because of the social discomfort or self-consciousness associated with this condition."

Some people may be at higher risk, including those who have a genetic predisposition, a medical condition that causes symptoms of excessive sweating, or people who eat foods or supplements that can cause sweating.

Some signs of hyperhidrosis include:

- Sweating that interferes with daily activities, including the formation of visible sweat stains on clothing or hands, making common tasks difficult, such as turning a doorknob or using computer keyboards.

- Appearance of sweat on the surface of the skin

- The skin becomes smooth, white and even scaly in certain areas.

- Recurrent skin infections

“Although there is no cure for hyperhidrosis, there are some treatments that can greatly help manage the symptoms,” Dr. Marmon continued. “If the sweating persists without relief, a dermatologist should be consulted to develop a specific treatment plan.”

In the meantime, simple steps can help curb excessive sweating. According to Marmon, using an antiperspirant instead of a deodorant can help. Antiperspirants work by blocking sweat glands and inhibiting sweating, while deodorants mask the smell of sweat and body odor.

It is recommended to apply antiperspirant to dry skin at bedtime and then again in the morning.

“Apply it to any area of ​​your body that sweats noticeably, including your palms, back, and behind your knees,” Marmon explains.

Breathable fabrics like cotton are always preferable, she added, and some people may want to consider using underarm sweat absorbent patches to help prevent stains on clothing. It's also a good idea to have a spare set of clothes on hand in case you need them.

For your feet specifically, be sure to change shoes frequently and let them dry (don't wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row).

Natural materials such as leather allow air to circulate better than synthetic materials or plastic shoes. It is advisable to choose cotton socks that help draw moisture away from the skin.

All of these steps can help reduce your chances of getting athlete's foot (or tinea pedis, a fungal skin infection that usually starts between the toes) and other infections, Marmon noted.

Marmon also recommends taking care of mental health, noting that excessive sweating can make people feel extremely self-conscious and can even lead to depression.