How to Treat Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating, called hyperhidrosis, affects millions of people. It causes sweating beyond what your body needs to cool down. You might sweat heavily even when resting or in cool temperatures. The good news is that several treatments can help.

Understanding Hyperhidrosis

There are two types of excessive sweating. Primary hyperhidrosis has no known cause and usually affects the palms, feet, underarms, or face. Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by another condition like diabetes, thyroid problems, or certain medications.

First-Line Treatments

Prescription antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride are the usual starting point. Apply them at night to dry skin. They work by blocking sweat glands and can reduce sweating significantly.

Prescription wipes like Qbrexza contain glycopyrronium, which blocks nerve signals to sweat glands. In 2024, the FDA approved sofpironium bromide gel (Sofdra), a new topical option for underarm sweating in patients 9 and older.

Medical Procedures

Botox injections block the nerves that trigger sweating. Results last 4-6 months and work well for underarm, palm, and facial sweating. Most patients see a 50% or greater reduction in sweating.

Iontophoresis uses mild electrical currents to temporarily block sweat glands. It works best for hands and feet. You place your hands or feet in shallow water while a device delivers a gentle current.

Microwave therapy (miraDry) destroys sweat glands using heat energy. Since destroyed sweat glands don't grow back, this treatment offers permanent results for underarm sweating.

Oral Medications

For widespread sweating, doctors may prescribe oral medications called anticholinergics. Glycopyrrolate is often preferred because it causes fewer side effects than other options. Common side effects include dry mouth and constipation.

When to See a Doctor

See a dermatologist if excessive sweating affects your daily life. They can rule out underlying causes and create a treatment plan. Many people find relief with the right combination of treatments.