Don't Sweat It: Sweat Solutions and Dryness Tips That Work

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In doctor-speak, excessive sweating is known as hyperhidrosis and is defined as sweating six times more than the average person. If your perspiration interferes with your life (say, you wear panty liners under your arms to soak up sweat), your MD will likely diagnose you with the condition.

After first trying a prescription-strength antiperspirant, the next level of treatment is Botox injections. While not pain-free, experts say most patients report that the result -- no sweat stains for about seven months or more -- is worth it.

If you suffer from excessive hand or foot sweat, your dermatologist may suggest iontophoresis, a treatment in which you put your hands or feet in a device filled with water while mild electrical currents are sent through your skin's surface to block the flow of sweat. Doctors describe the currents as startling but not painful. If done consistently once or twice a week (you can do the procedure at home), the less-sweat effect can last indefinitely.

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, August 2007.