Everybody sweats; it's a normal part of life. Sweating actually serves a physiological purpose, which is to cool your body when it gets too hot. Some people suffer from excessive sweating in their armpits, so much that it causes stains in their shirts and makes them feel embarrassed. If you suffer from hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, there are some things you can do to decrease the amount of sweat your body produces.
Step 1
Buy a clinical-strength deodorant and antiperspirant that contains a minimum of 15 percent aluminum chloride. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that very strong antiperspirants plug the ducts of the sweat glands so that you cannot sweat from your armpits. Some brands that advertise products as "clinical strength" contain up to 20 percent aluminum chloride. The higher the strength, the better the product will work in stopping sweat from your armpits.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about a treatment called Iontophoresis, in which a battery-powered device sends a low-powered current of electricity to your armpits. If your doctor thinks the amount you sweat is excessive enough, he may be able to recommend Iontophoresis, which is an FDA-approved procedure. It is somewhat painful, according to the Mayo Clinic, but the treatment decreases sweating significantly for several weeks at a time.
Step 3
Ask your doctor about a perscription for an oral medication to stop you from sweating from your armpits. The Mayo Clinic states that anticholinergics can block some of the nerve impulses sent to sweat glands that cause you to sweat.
Step 4
Get a treatment of botox in your armpits if your doctor thinks Iontophoresis isn't right for you, or if it doesn't do the trick. The National Institutes of Health states that botox uses the FDA-approved Botulinum toxin as an injection into the skin. It is injected into the underarm area and temporarily prevents the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands from functioning. You may need to get botox every few months to maintain results.
Step 5
Wear loose-fitting, light clothing, especially around your armpits. This will allow your skin to breathe through the pores. If your skin is restricted by tight, heavy clothing, you will sweat more. Always wear layers when you go out so that if it gets too hot, you can remove a jacket or a cardigan so you don't overheat.
Tips and Warnings
- A deodorant on its own will help minimize body odor, but it does not prevent sweating.
Things You'll Need
- Clinical-strength deodorant and antiperspirant
