Facial Sweating Causes & Treatments

Who among us hasn’t had to dab beads of sweat from our forehead on a hot day or following a workout? It’s a natural reaction of our body to produce sweat to cool us down. However, it gets a little more complicated (and embarrassing) when rivers of sweat roll down your face for no obvious external reason. Keep reading to learn more about facial sweating causes, as well as treatment for excessive facial sweating.

What causes excessive sweating on the face?

When we talk about excessive sweating, it’s important to understand what it means. Excessive facial sweating is a visible and abundant flow of sweat for no apparent reason on a normal day. It may also be a sign of a medical condition called hyperhidrosis.

There are two types of hyperhidrosis:

1) Primary hyperhidrosis is localized to specific to parts of the body, such as the armpits, hands, feet, and face. Researchers believe it is caused by an overactive nervous system, which overstimulates the sweat glands. It also believed to be hereditary.

2) Secondary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating all over the body (including the face) due to an underlying health condition or side effect from medication.

What are effective treatments for facial sweating?

For many, facial hyperhidrosis causes both physical discomfort and embarrassment. Sometimes this leads to a negative impact on confidence and socialization. Let’s look at treatment options that can help reduce sweat production and build self-esteem.

Topical treatments

When looking for a treatment for facial sweating, the first course of action is typically topical treatment, such as antiperspirants or lotions.

Most over-the-counter antiperspirants contain aluminum chloride, which blocks the sweat glands. Clinical strength antiperspirants contain the highest amount of aluminum chloride allowed without a prescription. We've even identified 6 of the best products deemed gentle enough to use on your face. If you need a stronger product, talk to your doctor about a prescription antiperspirant.

Some lotions are designed to keep your face dry and reduce its shine. Likewise, topical astringents reduce the size of pores and the appearance of facial sweat. Many people prefer all-natural astringents like apple cider vinegar or witch hazel.

Before trying any new product on your face, test a small area first to ensure there is no irritation.

Topical astringents reduce the size of pores and the appearance of facial sweat.

Medication

Several medications are used as a facial sweating treatment. They are designed to combat the effects of excessive sweat. It’s important to discuss the options and potential side effects with your doctor. Oral anticholinergics decrease sweating over the entire body, including the face. Some antidepressant medications reduce sweating, as well as anxiety, which can be a trigger for sweat. Beta-blockers and benzodiazepines may also help the physical manifestations of anxiety, including sweating.

Medical treatments

The most common medical treatment for facial hyperhidrosis is Botox. During the procedure, a medical professional injects Botox beneath the skin in the target area. The injections calm the nervous activity in overactive sweat glands. It deactivates the sweat glands and stops excessive sweat from being produced. Unfortunately, Botox is a temporary fix. Results can last up to 12 months before another injection is required.

Are you struggling with sweat in other areas too? If so, Ejis sweat proof boxer briefs and undershirts (available from our shop or on Amazon) are great at preventing sweat stains. Our sweat proof basics are made of premium fabric fused with odor-fighting silver. They have an ultra-thin waterproof layer to protect clothing from your sweatiest parts. The line also includes Ejis dress socks to combat smelly and/or sweaty feet.