Sweating helps your body stay cool in hot conditions. Air evaporates the sweat and helps you feel cooler. The palms of your hands and the soles of your feet contain many sweat glands, and after exercise, on hot days or in tense situations, you may sweat more in these locations. But some people have a condition called hyperhidrosis, which causes excessive sweating even when conditions are cool and dry. If you suffer from this problem, consult your doctor about what you can do. He may recommend several solutions for you to try.
Step 1
Dust your hands and feet with talcum powder or cornstarch. Put cornstarch or talcum powder in your shoes and socks. The talcum helps soak up excess perspiration and works for mild hyperhidrosis, reports Go Ask Alice, the health columnist for Health Services at Columbia University.
Step 2
Apply a light layer of antiperspirant to the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands before you go to bed at night. Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide reports that antiperspirants, which help prevent sweating under your arms, also work on hands and feet. Choose a formula that contains aluminum for best results.
Step 3
Cover your hands and feet with plastic bags after you've applied the antiperspirant. Leave the plastic in place while you sleep. You can slip socks or gloves over the plastic if you like. Remove the plastic in the morning.
Step 4
Talk to your doctor about medications and therapies to relieve more severe hyperhidrosis. Milton S. Hershey Medical Center reports some people have experienced success with iontophoresis, in which doctors applies a mild electrical current to water in which you soak your hands or feet; with Botox injections; and with medication.
Tips and Warnings
- Discontinue use of antiperspirant if you experience a rash or irritation.
Things You'll Need
- Talcum powder or cornstarch
- Antiperspirant
- plastic bags
