How To Reduce Sweating

You may want to learn how to reduce sweating if your perspiration is so heavy that it ever makes you feel uncomfortable in social situations. Sweat or perspiration is a normal part of human physiology, and is actually really important in that it helps our bodies keep from getting too hot. But for some people, it's more than temperature that gets them sweating.  Stress, nerves or excitement can make some people sweat uncomfortably, and for some people just eating spicy food is enough to get the sweat rolling. Some others may even start sweating for no apparent reason, a condition known as hyperhidrosis. So, what can you do to reduce sweating?

Items Needed:

• Antiperspirant
• Doctor's appointment

1. Antiperspirants - Antiperspirants are the simplest and most commonly used treatment to reduce sweating. Look for antiperspirants that contain 10-15% aluminum chloride hexahydrate—this is the ingredient that prevents perspiration.  If over the counter applications don't work, you can get a prescription for a stronger solution. Don't confuse deodorants with antiperspirants; a deodorant is only effective for reducing odor, not for stopping perspiration.
2. Botox - Botox isn't just for wrinkles anymore! The medication can be used to greatly reduce underarm perspiration by injecting it directly into the armpit. The results last for several months.
3. Iontophoresis - This is a treatment that's been used since the 1950s to reduce sweating of the palms and feet. The hands and feet are placed in basins of plain tap water and an electrical current is then passed through the water. The patient will feel a mild tingling, but it is not a painful procedure. Treatment is usually done three times a week and it will take about a month to see the full effect. After that, treatment will only be needed once or twice a month for maintenance.
4. Surgery - A fairly simple procedure known as endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is the only truly permanent way to reduce sweating. It's usually an outpatient procedure that involves cutting or clamping the sympathetic nerve chain, the nerves that control the sweat glands. This effectively eliminates excessive sweating in the affected area.  It's been used with great results to reduce sweating in both the armpits and on the palms.