5 ways to reduce sweat during a hot weather (expert comments) 

Five expert tips to reduce the amount you sweat during a heatwave 

The summer months might be welcomed by most, but for some people, the hot weather can lead to excess sweating and embarrassment.

Sweating is a completely natural process and is simply your body cooling itself down. However, if the arrival of the sun makes you more worried than usual about sweat and body odour then there are ways to reduce how much you sweat during the current UK heatwave.

Steven Kyffin, the cosmetics expert at leading natural deodorant brand, Salt of the Earth, has shared five ways that you can reduce the amount you sweat during the summer months. 

1. Keep cool

“When we perspire it’s actually our body’s natural defence against overheating. So it might sound obvious but keeping cool should be your first port of call. Stay out of direct sunlight when outdoors, have a desk fan handy at all times when working and leave windows and doors open where possible. Keeping blinds and curtains drawn during the day can help keep rooms cool so when you go to bed you aren’t sweating as much either. Keep moisturisers in the fridge and, if you have ice packs in the freezer, use them throughout the day to cool down”. 

2. Choose clothes carefully

“Loose-fitting clothes are a must in the hotter weather. Wear breathable fabrics like premium cotton or bamboo-based materials like rayon. You could even buy sweat-proof clothing for added peace of mind. Light colours absorb less heat so avoid black, although if you do find sweat patches are a problem, patterned clothing in darker colours can mask them. Open-toed shoes are far better for keeping feet cool but if these aren’t an option, for example at work, then changing your socks twice a day can help keep feet fresh.”

3. Food and drink

“Sticking to fresh salads might be your best bet if you’re prone to sweating. If you’re a fan of fajitas or curry though, you’ll need to give them up when a heatwave hits. Spicy foods trigger the body’s instinct to sweat so are best avoided. Similarly, caffeine stimulates the adrenal glands which, again, causes sweating and alcohol affects every part of the body including your heart rate which, when increased, can cause perspiration. Green tea might be a hot drink alternative as it contains magnesium and vitamin B which compress your sweat glands. Water will be your best friend in the heat, staying hydrated keeps your body cool so you don’t need to sweat so much.”

4. Look after yourself

“Although people who exercise regularly will sweat more quickly when working out, they tend to sweat less doing basic tasks. So engaging in exercise can help you sweat less day to day. We all know the health benefits of quitting smoking but giving up can also help with your sweat problem. Smoking raises blood pressure and increases your heart rate which we know can be a trigger for your sweat glands.” 

5. Natural remedies

“Using cosmetic products with certain ingredients can help combat potential sweating. Sandalwood, witch hazel and tea tree oil, amongst others, are natural astringents which can keep you dry without harsh chemicals..”

Steven Kyffin is the Product Development Manager at the natural deodorant brand, Salt of the Earth. Salt of the Earth has a number of natural deodorants perfect for the summer; check out their full range here.