Q. Is there any remedy for underarm sweating? Our 14-year-old granddaughter refuses to wear anything but black, as she feels the sweat does not show up as much. She has seen the doctor, but he had no suggestions.
A. Your granddaughter might have hyperhidrosis, a condition of excessive sweating. There are a couple of over the counter products that would be worth a try. One is Certain Dri, which contains aluminum chloride (12 percent). She should put it on before bed, making sure her armpits are dry before it is applied. After a week or so of use, she may only need to apply it two or three times a week.
Doctors can prescribe stronger products such as Drysol. For more resistant cases, physicians sometimes offer a device that delivers a mild electric current to the sweat glands (Drionic). A series of Botox injections can be effective but pricey. We are sending you our Guide to Skin Care and Treatment with many more details on dealing with hyperhidrosis.
She should also have a more thorough medical workup. Several readers report excessive sweating as a symptom of thyroid gland hyperactivity, a condition that requires treatment.
