FAQ
What is sweat?
Everybody sweats:
Sweat, also known as perspiration, is a normal and healthy bodily function and it starts to occur just a few months after birth.
We mainly sweat to cool our bodies down, a process called thermoregulation. Our brain sends a signal to over 3 million glands in our body to release sweat (a clear fluid made of water, salts and proteins). As this fluid evaporates from our skin, it lowers our body temperature.
There are many factors that can cause us to perspire:
- Hot environments
- General movement and physical activities
- Emotional feelings, including stress
- Eating hot or spicy food
- Side effects from medication or surgery
- Illness, as our bodies fight infections or fevers
- Hormonal changes such as menopause, pregnancy, menstruation or puberty
Sweating too much?
On average we sweat about 1 litre per day, but most of it evaporates so we don’t notice it. We can sweat up to 10 litres a day if we’re really hot or exercising hard.
We sweat from two types of glands
- Eccrine glands: These appear all over the body and are mainly for cooling. They cause sweat on our face and head, and are responsible for sweaty hands and sweaty feet.
- Apocrine glands: These larger glands appear mainly under the armpits and are mostly active when we’re exercising or experiencing strong emotions like stress.
Women have more eccrine sweat glands than men, but men’s eccrine glands are more active, so men actually sweat or have more hot flushes overall.
How to stop sweat
Sweating is a normal and healthy process, but there are several things you can do to help reduce and control the amount you sweat:
- Use an effective antiperspirant deodorant. All Dearo products offer 48-hour protection.
- Dry yourself properly after showering. Damp skin doesn’t absorb as much antiperspirant product and so won’t work as effectively.
- If you feel the need, carry a Dearo Compressed can as part of your daily kit so you can freshen up on the go.
- Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine and nicotine, as these can make you sweat more.
- Help sweaty feet by wearing shoes made from materials that draw sweat away from the skin, like natural leathers or athletic shoes with a nylon mesh. Sandals or flip-flops in the summer will let your skin breathe.
- Consider applying your antiperspirant at night to clean, dry skin. Your sweat glands are less active when you sleep, which allows the product to be absorbed more easily.
- If you think you’re sweating too much, get tips on excessive sweating or check out our extra protection antiperspirant, Maximum Protection.
A: Deodorant works by neutralizing or masking odor-causing bacteria on the skin. It helps to keep you smelling fresh by combating the unpleasant odor associated with sweat.
A: Deodorant primarily focuses on neutralizing odor, while antiperspirant aims to reduce perspiration by temporarily blocking sweat glands. Some products combine both deodorant and antiperspirant properties.
A: Yes, natural deodorants can be effective in controlling odor. They often use ingredients like baking soda, essential oils, or plant-based extracts to combat bacteria and neutralize odor.
A: Some deodorants may cause skin irritation, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. It's essential to choose a deodorant that is gentle and formulated for your skin type.
A: It's typically recommended to apply deodorant once a day, preferably after showering or cleansing the underarms. However, you may need to reapply if you engage in activities that cause excessive sweating.
A: Yes, there are deodorants specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for products labeled as gentle, hypoallergenic, or suitable for sensitive skin to minimize the risk of irritation.
A: Yes, there are fragrance-free or unscented deodorants available. These are ideal for individuals with fragrance sensitivities or those who prefer to avoid scented products.
Some deodorants may leave white marks or yellow stains on clothing. Look for deodorants labeled as "stain-free" or "no residue" to minimize the likelihood of staining.
A: It's generally safe to use deodorant during pregnancy. However, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and to ensure the products you choose are safe for you.
A: Many brands offer cruelty-free deodorants that are not tested on animals. Look for certifications such as Leaping Bunny or cruelty-free logos to ensure the product aligns with your values.