Can’t stop sweating? We asked Mississauga dermatologist Dr. Karen O’Neill for five tips to stay cool and dry this summer.
If you try these and are still sweating buckets, you might have a condition known as hyperhidrosis — or excessive sweating. It’s estimated that as many as 910,000 Canadians may have this disorder, and it’s certainly no fun at a meeting.
There are treatments available for hyperhidrosis, including Botox for underarms, low-intensity electric current, antiperspirant treatments (even for hands, feet and groin!), or surgery to cut the nerve that causes the abnormal sweating.
Here are O’Neill’s tips to reduce sweat.
Stay hydrated and avoid “sweaty” foods — Keep a water bottle on you at all times and drink it throughout the day. Avoid sweat-inducing foods such as spicy foods, caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
Protect yourself from the sun — Wear sunscreen and sit in shady areas or wear a hat. If you’re looking for a glistening glow, try a bronzer or self-tanner.
Talk to a dermatologist — For excessive sweating, speak to a dermatologist or visit sweatmanagement.ca.
Wear breathable fabrics — Choose cotton or linen and avoid nylon and polyester.
Sweat it out — Believe it or not, exercise makes it easier for you to stay cool because it improves your circulation. Also, excess fat in your body can act as insulation, making it more difficult to maintain your internal temperature.
