June 14, 2018
As summer nears and the temperature rises, staying dry can be a real challenge. If you suffer from heavy sweating, don’t worry! There are ways to stay dry even on the hottest days.
The simplest way to tackle underarm sweating is to use a strong antiperspirant. These sweat-blockers contain aluminum salts that coat the skin and dissolve moisture on the surface. As the salts dissolve, they plug your pores to prevent further perspiration. Most over-the-counter antiperspirant brands will do the trick, and if you perspire more than the average person, opt for a “clinical strength” variety. If that still doesn’t do it for you, ask your doctor about prescription antiperspirants.
The fabric of your clothes can have a big impact on how your body responds to the heat. Clothing that is light in color will help keep you cool, as lighter colors absorb less thermal energy from the sun than dark colors. It is also helpful to wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t cling to the body, allowing for better air flow and overall ventilation. Synthetic fabrics like spandex increase sweat production, so be sure to pepper your summer wardrobe with clothing crafted from natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk.
This one may be hard to swallow for fans of piquant cuisines, but foods that contain a lot of spice or hot peppers can raise your body temperature, causing you to sweat. Things like garlic and onion can worsen the problem, as these ingredients tend to make your sweat take on a funky odor. Regardless of your penchant for jalapenos, steering clear of spicy food is your best bet when it comes to staying dry on a hot day.
Unfortunately for coffee lovers, caffeine is a major sweat trigger. Caffeine activates your nervous system, which in turn gets your body’s sweat glands operating at full capacity. Substitute hot coffee with an iced herbal tea or a cup of decaf on exceptionally sweltering summer days to reduce the effect your libations can have on perspiration.
If you prefer to rely on natural remedies, look no further than your grocery store’s produce aisle. Lemons contain anti-bacterial properties which can help reduce sweat and related odor. Not only does citric acid eliminate bacteria, its naturally pleasant smell makes for the perfect summer scent!
Heat isn’t the only thing that causes our bodies to perspire: stressful situations can trigger excessive sweating, and water is the key to keeping your system calm when stressful moments happen. Additionally, your body loses water as it sweats, and replenishing your system is important, especially on hot days or when exercising.
No matter how you choose to stay cool during the summer months, always listen to your body, drink plenty of fluids, and wear sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage. Sweating is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to be a problem if you’re prepared. Dress for the weather, routinely apply antiperspirant, and stay hydrated to beat the heat and stay dry.
