Excessive sweating — sweating that goes beyond what your body needs for temperature regulation — is more common than most people realise, and there's a real difference between "I sweat more than average" and diagnosed hyperhidrosis. Understanding which one you're dealing with changes what actually helps.
What causes excessive sweating
Sweating is triggered by heat, exercise, stress, and hormonal changes — but for some people, the sweat glands are simply overactive regardless of these triggers. This can be primary (no underlying medical cause, often runs in families) or secondary (linked to a medical condition or medication). Read the full breakdown of causes.
Is it excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is the clinical term for sweating well beyond what's needed to cool the body — often localised to the armpits, hands, feet, or face, and disruptive enough to affect daily life, clothing choices, or confidence. If sweating happens frequently, unpredictably, and independent of heat or exertion, that's worth understanding properly. Causes of excessive sweating.
By area
- Sweaty armpits — the most common area people look for help with, and where clinical-strength antiperspirants show the clearest results.
- Sweaty hands — palmar sweating has its own patterns and triggers. Antiperspirant for sweaty hands.
- Sweaty feet — often overlooked, but responds well to the same aluminium chloride approach used for armpits.
What actually helps
Apply DryDry Original before sleep or another extended period of rest when you are unlikely to sweat. Use it only on completely dry, unbroken, non-irritated skin. Let the product dry, then wash the treated area after your sleep or rest period. If the desired effect is not achieved after the first application, repeat during the next sleep or rest period and follow the enclosed directions. See the full clinical antiperspirant range check our FAQ