Underarm sweat?
What helps against excessive sweating.

Why do I sweat so heavily under my arms?

There are especially many sweat glands in the armpits. They respond to heat and movement, but also to stress, excitement, spicy food, or alcohol. Because the skin there gets very little air, sweat evaporates poorly - it becomes wet and stains develop.

If you sweat heavily even without a clear reason, this is called primary hyperhidrosis. It is not caused by an illness, results from overactive nerve signals to the sweat glands, and can run in families. It has nothing to do with hygiene.

Source: Mayo Clinic

What bothers you: wetness, odor or both?

Fresh sweat hardly smells. The typical odor only develops when bacteria on the skin break down components of sweat.

If the main issue is odor, a deodorant is often enough. If wetness and stains are the problem, you need something that reduces the amount of sweat - an antiperspirant. Since less sweat also means less nourishment for odor-causing bacteria, it usually helps with both.

Why do I sweat despite using deodorant?

A deodorant masks odor with fragrance or inhibits bacteria. It does not change the amount of sweat. An antiperspirant contains aluminum salts: They form small plugs just below the skin's surface in the openings of the sweat glands. This reduces the amount of sweat that escapes.

That is why you should look for the designation “antiperspirant” or “antiperspirant.” Find out more in the article Antiperspirant, antiperspirant or deodorant?

Source: International Hyperhidrosis Society

Why apply antiperspirant in the evening?

Dermatologists recommend applying antiperspirants to dry skin before going to bed. At night, the sweat glands are less active, allowing the active ingredient to reach the gland openings undisturbed. In the morning, you shower as normal - the protection remains.

How to use odaban® Spray

Every day for the first 3–5 nights, then usually 1–2× per week is sufficient. One spray per armpit is enough. Apply only to completely dry, unbroken skin - and do not shave your armpits for 24 hours before or after application. See detailed instructions

Source: American Academy of Dermatology · International Hyperhidrosis Society

What helps with sweat stains?

The most effective step is to sweat less: An antiperspirant reduces the moisture that causes stains. Breathable clothing and an undershirt with underarm protection can also help. Because you apply odaban® in the evening and shower in the morning, less product gets onto your clothes during the day.

An antiperspirant does not remove existing stains. Read the article Sweat stains on clothing to learn how to remove them from your clothes.

Can an antiperspirant cause itching?

Mild itching is possible during the first few nights. Apply the spray only to completely dry, undamaged skin, use sparingly and not immediately after shaving. If you experience burning, take a break for one night. If the symptoms persist, seek medical advice.

More in the article Why can antiperspirants cause itching? and about skin compatibility.

When should I see a doctor?

Have excessive sweating checked by a doctor if

• you suddenly sweat significantly more than usual,
• you sweat at night for no apparent reason,
• your sweating disrupts your daily life or causes you distress.

Sweating can also be caused by an illness or medication.

Source: Mayo Clinic

What should I do if an antiperspirant is not enough?

An antiperspirant is usually the first step for excessive underarm sweating. If that is not enough, a dermatology practice can discuss further treatments, such as botulinum toxin injections, iontophoresis, tablets or, in rare cases, surgery. Which option is suitable depends on the cause, the body area and the symptoms.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology