5 Ways to Beat the Heat

Climate changes and warming trends mean lighter clothing like tank tops and sun dresses. But many of us with PCOS may be anxious wearing the skin-bearing clothing that goes along with the temperature and excessive sweating just makes matters worse. When days sizzle we feel like we are going to fizzle!

Excessive sweating or "hyperhidrosis" is often a symptom of PCOS. Hyperhidrosis can be brought on by hormonal imbalances, as well as diabetes. But there are ways to stay dry and keep cool when temperatures soar.

1. Change your antiperspirant
Antiperspirant is often the first line of defense. You can ask your doctor for a prescription strength formula, or you could try one of the over-the counter formulas developed for women with hyperhidrosis.

• Secret® Clinical Strength
• Certain Dri® Available at Wal-Mart or Target.
• Maxim™ Available online at www.maximteam.com

2. Apply antiperspirant in the morning and evening
A recent study funded by Procter & Gamble Beauty, the makers of Secret, found that applying over-the-counter antiperspirants in the morning and evening, or just in the evening, was significantly more effective than applying them in the morning alone. Massaging the antiperspirant into the skin may be useful. If you suffer from an annoyingly sweaty face, consider applying an antiperspirant along your hairline.

3. Wear cool clothes
Loose fitted clothing allows air to circulate around the body, and enables perspiration to evaporate. Choose white or light color clothing over black and dark shades. Dark colored clothing absorbs the heat, whereas light colors reflect the heat. Wear natural fibers such as cotton, which allows the skin to breathe. You might also try the new hi-tech fabrics designed to "wick" moisture away from your skin. Avoid synthetic man-made fibers, such as nylon or spandex that limit ventilation.

4. Stay hydrated
In hot weather, our bodies can lose up to a quart of fluid per day through perspiration. Yet someone with hyperhidrosis will perspire even more. It is important to stay hydrated. Don't wait until you are thirsty. Thirst is a sign that your body's fluid levels are already low. Iced herbal teas sweetened with stevia can be quite refreshing.

5. Stay out of direct sunlight
Whether outdoors or inside, avoid sitting in direct sunlight. When these rays beat down on the skin, they heat the body and cause perspiration, which in turn allows the body temperature to cool down. Also, sun-damaged or burned skin is not as effective at dissipating body heat. So, avoid the peak sun hours of 10am to 4pm, and wear sunscreen. For extreme sweaters, "sweat proof" or "sports" formulas are best.

Amy Medling

The International Hyperhidrosis Society. http://www.sweathelp.org/English/

Product information
Secret Clinical Strength http://www.secret.com/ClinicalStrength.do
Maxim Deodorant http://www.maximteam.com/
Certain Dri Deodorant http://www.certaindri.com/