Sweating is a natural way for your body to regulate temperature. When you exercise or spend time in a hot environment, you may find that your face, armpits, hands and feet sweat. Perspiration is also common when you feel stressed, nervous or anxious. Armpit sweat is usually harmless, though you may find it annoying or embarrassing, particularly if you notice body odor. Stopping pit sweat often only requires at-home treatment. You may need prescription medications or medical treatment if you sweat uncontrollably and excessively, as these symptoms may point to a medical condition characterized by excess perspiration called hyperhidrosis, explains MedlinePlus.
Step 1
Apply an over-the-counter antiperspirant daily. Antiperspirants contain aluminum compounds that block your sweat pores for a short time, explains the Mayo Clinic. Some antiperspirants also contain a deodorant to minimize body odor caused by armpit sweat.
Step 2
Wear loose shirts made of natural fibers, such as cotton, to allow air to reach your skin and minimize excess perspiration.
Step 3
Talk to your doctor or dermatologist about a prescription antiperspirant if over-the-counter products fail to stop your armpit sweat. Strong prescription products that contain higher levels of aluminum chloride can help control perspiration.
Step 4
Discuss other treatment options with your doctor if you continue to have perspiration problems or if your doctor diagnoses you with a condition like hyperhidrosis. Prescription oral medications, such as glycopyrrolate, can help prevent the stimulation of your sweat glands, according to MedlinePlus. Botox injections can block the nerves in your armpit that cause you to sweat.
Tips and Warnings
- Reapply over-the-counter antiperspirants before and after heavy physical activity and after leaving warm environments to keep them working throughout the day.
- Stop using any antiperspirant that causes a rash or severe skin irritation and discuss other options with your doctor. Strong prescription antiperspirants can damage clothes and may cause skin irritation.
Things You'll Need
- Antiperspirant
- Clothing made of natural fibers
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