Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for sweating far beyond what's needed to regulate body temperature — often localised to specific areas, and disruptive enough to affect daily life, work, and confidence. It's more common than most people realise, and there are more ways to manage it than many assume.
What is hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis typically falls into two categories: primary hyperhidrosis, which has no underlying medical cause and often starts in childhood or adolescence, and secondary hyperhidrosis, which is linked to another condition or medication. Primary hyperhidrosis is usually localised — armpits, hands, feet, or face — rather than affecting the whole body. Causes of excessive sweating.
Common types
- Axillary hyperhidrosis — the armpits, the area people most often want help with.
- Palmar hyperhidrosis — the hands, which can affect handshakes, grip, and using electronics or paper.
- Plantar hyperhidrosis — the feet, often overlooked but just as manageable.
What actually works
For most people with primary hyperhidrosis, a clinical-strength aluminium chloride antiperspirant is the recommended first-line approach before considering prescription treatments, iontophoresis, or more invasive options — and it's often enough on its own. See the full treatment ladder, from over-the-counter options through to clinical interventions.
If you're a teenager dealing with this
When choosing an antiperspirant for a teenager, check the product's age guidance, directions and warnings. Read about hyperhidrosis in teens specifically
Where to start
If you haven't tried a clinical-strength antiperspirant yet, that's the logical first step — see the full range. If you have specific concerns about your symptoms, it's always worth talking to a doctor or dermatologist alongside anything you try at home.