This year, we’re taking back control from hyperhidrosis. Excessive sweating can affect comfort, confidence, and daily routines, but the right habits can make a measurable difference over time. Whether you experience occasional sweat or live with hyperhidrosis, building consistent sweat management practices helps you feel more confident every day.
As 2026 begins, here are six practical habits to support healthier sweat regulation and long-term relief.
1. Wear sweat-smart clothing
What you wear plays a significant role in how sweat feels and appears. Breathable fabrics allow heat and moisture to escape, helping your body regulate temperature more effectively.
Choose natural or performance fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, merino wool, or moisture-wicking materials, like polyester and nylon. Dark colors and patterns can also help minimize visible sweat marks. For underarms, sweat-proof undershirts or absorbent pads add an extra layer of protection.
2. Stay properly hydrated
When you sweat excessively, you lose fluids much faster. When dehydrated, your body works harder to cool itself, which can increase sweat production. This is why it’s important to drink enough water, to help regulate body temperature and sweating.
Aim to drink water consistently throughout the day rather than all at once. Hydration needs vary, but most adults benefit from regular fluid intake, especially in warm climates or during physical activity.
3. Practice mindfulness and stress management
Stress and anxiety are common sweat triggers. The body’s stress response activates sweat glands, even without heat or exertion. For those with hyperhidrosis, this can turn into a cycle of sweat causing anxiety, and anxiety causing sweat.
Mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation help calm the nervous system and reduce stress-related sweating. Even a few minutes per day can improve your ability to manage sweat triggers over time.
4. Adopt an anti-sweat diet
Certain foods can stimulate sweat glands or raise body temperature. Spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol are common contributors that are best avoided or consumed in moderation.
Focus on water-dense fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, apples, and cucumbers. Calcium also helps regulate temperature, so milk, cheese, and yogurt are suitable for this diet. You can also keep a simple food journal to identify which foods affect your sweating, so you can adjust your meals accordingly.
5. Integrate long-term treatments into your routine
The most common options for sweat relief are often quick, but temporary. But there is also a long-term solution that helps reduce sweat at its source, rather than mask symptoms.
Tap water iontophoresis is a clinically supported treatment for hands, feet, and underarms. It works by passing a mild electrical current through water and the skin to temporarily block sweat glands. When used regularly, results can be maintained long-term with simple maintenance sessions. The treatment can be done comfortably at home with devices like Dermadry, so they can be easily integrated into your anti-sweat routine.
6. Find and build a support system
Living with excessive sweating can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Connecting with others who understand your experience can provide emotional support and practical advice.
This may include online communities, patient advocacy groups, healthcare providers, or brands that specialize in sweat management. Having a support system helps normalize the condition and reinforces consistency with treatment and self-care.
Start Small to Stop Sweat
Building any habit takes time. Try out these anti-sweat tips one at a time, and slowly integrate them into your routine. Consistency is key to achieving good results, even in hyperhidrosis management.
Choose a new habit and take the first step towards a better, sweat-free year.
References:
8 Methods to help you stop sweating
How to Stop Sweating: 9 Ways
Hyperhidrosis: 6 tips dermatologists give their patients
10+ Foods that reduce excessive sweating
5 Surprising Ways to Stop Sweating