Treatment

If you're concerned about sweating and body odor, the solution may be simple: an over-the-counter antiperspirant and deodorant.

• Antiperspirant. Antiperspirants contain aluminium-based compounds that temporarily block sweat pores, thereby reducing the amount of perspiration that reaches your skin.
• Deodorant. Deodorants can eliminate odor but not perspiration. They're usually alcohol-based and turn your skin acidic, making it less attractive to bacteria. Deodorants often contain perfume fragrances intended to mask odor.

If over-the-counter antiperspirants don't help control your sweating, your doctor may prescribe a prescription product. These are strong solutions that can cause red, swollen and itchy skin in some people.