On-the-Job Hacks for All 4 Types of Hyperhidrosis

Sweating on the job is not only a nuisance, it can also be a hazard to your productivity, self-esteem, and safety. You can address it with medications, sweat-resistant fabrics, and even surgical procedures. 

But these interventions might take some time to work, and you will need to stay dry in the meantime, especially when you’re at work. Niftier techniques may be required. This post will take a look at job “hacks” that can tackle all four forms of hyperhidrosis - the palmar, plantar, auxiliary, and craniofacial variants. 

Hacks for Palmar Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Hand Sweating)

If you dread handshakes and holding objects such as a steering wheel, then you likely suffer from palmar hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating of the hands. It goes without saying that it's one of the most frustrating forms because it's very difficult to hide, especially if you work in a client or customer-facing job. 

You’re probably working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but you might have to deal with a wet keyboard and mouse. Fortunately, there are quite a few strategies at your disposal.

1. Use waterproof keyboard protectors, screen protectors, and stylus pens for touch screen enabled devices.
2. Use gloves, preferably those made with cotton for tasks that require manual dexterity.
3. If possible, laminate book covers, folders, and other physically-bound literature so that they don't get soggy.
4. Use pencil grippers when using writing utensils such as pens, pencils, paint brushes, or other tools.
5. Keep small absorbent towels nearby to wipe wet hands.

Hacks for Plantar Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Foot Sweating)

Sweating of the foot is easy to conceal but no less frustrating than sweating anywhere else. It's no fun pulling your foot out of a shoe that feels more like a puddle. Nevertheless, there are tools and tactics to help you counteract excessive sweating of the feet.

1. If you wear special work shoes, consider buying an extra pair or two so you can rotate between pairs when one gets soaked.
2. Consider buying a home shoe dryer or place your wet shoes near a warm vent to speed up the drying process.
3. Periodically take a bathroom break to wipe off your feet with a paper towel or an actual towel.
4. Although its effects are limited, you can try putting baby powder under your feet since it can soak up a limited amount of moisture.
5. Buy moisture-wicking socks!

Hacks for Axillary Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Underarm/Groin Sweating)

Auxiliary hyperhidrosis is one of the easier forms to manage and conceal.

1. First and foremost, wear apparel for excess sweating, especially sweatproof undershirts.
2. Wear light, flowing layers that are darker in color and made with breathable moisture-wicking fabrics.
3. Keep a handheld fan beside you if you get warm easily, or keep your thermostat set to a balanced temperature.
4. If you’re on a Zoom call, angle your camera appropriately and adjust your light settings so the shirt doesn't show too much.
5. If your sweating is especially heavy, periodically change into another shirt.

Hacks for Craniofacial Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Facial/Forehead Sweating)

A sweaty forehead and scalp can really dampen your day (excuse the pun). It's visible for everyone to see and it's very tricky to conceal. This is especially true when you are in front of others and it can be a distraction for both yourself and those around you. It takes more effort and frankly more persistent management to keep craniofacial hyperhidrosis under control but it's possible nonetheless.

1. Where and when appropriate, wear a helmet and hat liners to absorb sweat.
2. Wear a hat or some other head accessory that is appropriate for your line of work but effective at hiding a sweaty scalp.
3. Keep a towel with you to occasionally wipe sweat from your forehead.
4. Choose a hairstyle that suits your facial profile, but also disguises the appearance of excessive sweat.
5. Use a plain, unscented face powder to help you absorb excess moisture.

Treatment Reminders for All Four Types of Hyperhidrosis

Ultimately, these 20 hacks will keep you comfortable throughout the day, but they do not attack hyperhidrosis at the root. So remember to combine them with a dedicated treatment plan. Here's a quick reminder of the treatment protocols that work for each of the four types.

Treatment Protocols for Each Form of Hyperhidrosis

Managing Excess Sweating Keeps You Cool, Comfortable & Confident

When you're at work, you no doubt want to leave all your problems at the front door including excessive sweating. Unfortunately, hyperhidrosis does rear its ugly head on the job. With the right combination of practical hacks such as wearing sweat-resistant fabrics along with the right medical treatments, you can keep your sweating under control. And when you're dry, you can work confidently and distraction-free.