Don’t sweat it: sweat, odor and your options
Take sweating in stride: sweat is your body’s normal way of cooling down, not a sign that something is wrong. If a workout, a hot bus or a long workday leaves your underarms wet and smelling strong, it helps to know when deodorant will do, when you need an antiperspirant and when to seek help.
Why do we sweat, and why does it smell?
When you work out, you sweat. In fact, you sweat even when you’re just going about your day. The only difference is how much you sweat and how uncomfortable it makes you.
Sweating is your body’s cooling system. Sweat itself is mostly water with a little sodium chloride. It is released by sweat glands all over your body, with higher concentrations in your underarms, hands, feet and forehead. That’s why you notice wet palms, damp socks or a wet patch under your arm before you notice sweat on your back, for example.
Sweat doesn’t initially smell as strong as people often think. The odor develops when bacteria living on your skin get into the sweat and start to work. The simple truth is that the longer moisture stays on your skin and clothes, the more easily an unpleasant smell develops.
Women usually sweat less than men, and sweating can also change during the menstrual cycle. That doesn’t mean either is better. Bodies simply work a little differently from person to person.
Don’t sweat it: what does antiperspirant do?
Antiperspirant is not the same as deodorant. Deodorant mainly tackles odor. Antiperspirant reduces sweat production, particularly in the underarms. That’s why it is treated more as a product bordering on a medicine than simply as a scented cosmetic.
The active ingredient in antiperspirant is usually aluminum. Common forms include aluminum chloride and aluminum zirconium. These help temporarily block sweat glands so that less moisture reaches the skin. Antiperspirants typically contain no more than 15-25% active ingredient. Under FDA (Food and Drug Administration) requirements, all antiperspirants must reduce a person’s sweating by at least 20%.
So what actually happens? You don’t stop your whole body from cooling itself. You reduce excessive wetness in a specific area, usually your underarms. For the average person, this is a safe way to reduce discomfort.
When and how should you use it?
Antiperspirant is usually applied once a day. Many people put it on in the morning after a shower, but the evening, before bed, may be a better time. Your skin is calmer then, you sweat less and the active ingredient can be absorbed more effectively.
Avoid shaving your underarms just before applying it. Shaving can irritate your skin, making antiperspirant more likely to sting or cause a rash. If your skin is already red, take a break or choose a gentler product.
When sweat means odor: deodorant or antiperspirant?
If odor is your main concern, deodorant may be enough. Deodorant usually contains an antimicrobial or antibacterial ingredient that reduces the effects of odor-causing bacteria. It doesn’t stop sweat; it helps keep odor under control.
If a wet shirt is your main concern, choose an antiperspirant. If both odor and wetness are a problem, a combination product is a suitable choice. These come as sticks, gels and sprays. Some leave fewer marks on clothes; others contain cream and feel gentler after shaving.
The truth is, no label can tell you in advance which product will work best for your body. Different compounds work differently from person to person. Sometimes you need to try two or three options.
When buying antiperspirant, read the packaging. If your specific aim is to reduce wetness, look for wording such as extra strength. If heavy sweating isn’t a problem, deodorant may be all you need. What matters is keeping your skin healthy and feeling comfortable.
Excessive sweating: when should you seek help?
Some people don’t just sweat a little more. They drip with sweat even when it isn’t hot or stressful. Their hands, feet and underarms may be constantly wet. This is known as excessive sweating.
If sweating interferes with your work, workouts, social life or sleep, it’s worth talking to a doctor. There are several options: prescription antiperspirants such as Drysol, Botox injections and, in certain cases, specialized surgery. Drysol may not break the bank, but Botox might.
According to the original price example, one Botox treatment for the underarms cost around 15,000 kr and kept sweating at bay for about half a year. Prices and options may change over time, but the point remains the same: it’s worth moving on to more intensive treatment when simpler solutions don’t help.
If a regular antiperspirant gives you a rash, use it less often. Avoid shaving just before applying it. If the irritation continues, try another product and don’t go straight for the maximum-strength option. If your skin still reacts, choose deodorant or ask a doctor for advice.
FAQ: sweat, but don’t worry too much
Is sweating bad?
No. Sweating is normal and necessary. It becomes a concern when sweating is very heavy, odor interferes with everyday life or products irritate your skin.
Can you use antiperspirant every day?
Yes, antiperspirant is usually applied once a day. If your skin becomes red, stings or develops a rash, take a break and choose a gentler product.
Does deodorant stop sweating?
No. Deodorant mainly helps with odor. If you also want to reduce wetness, look for an antiperspirant or a product that combines deodorant and antiperspirant.
Author: M&F Hers; translated by Renita Hunt
Source: WHO – physical activity.
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