How to cure foot hyperhidrosis? This question is asked by those who are familiar with this delicate problem first-hand.
Hyperhidrosis of the feet (sweating) or plantar hyperhidrosis appears on the feet, and its manifestation is not related to air temperature. Often hyperhidrosis of the palms and feet is combined, then we are talking about distal hyperhidrosis. This occurs in people whose sympathetic nervous system is overactive. From a social and psychological point of view, this type of hyperhidrosis is not so dangerous - after all, our feet are hidden by shoes. However, constant moisture in the feet provokes the growth of bacteria, and therefore an unpleasant odor. In addition to the presence of an unpleasant odor, sweating feet can also lead to various types of infectious diseases of the feet. Hygiene and wearing socks and shoes made of natural materials can somewhat reduce its manifestations, but with severe hyperhidrosis these measures have practically no effect.
Indications and contraindications
The main indication for treatment of leg hyperhidrosis is personal discomfort associated with increased foot sweating.
Increased sweating is associated with an unpleasant odor, which, of course, causes inconvenience when communicating with people, attending events, visiting people, or trying on shoes.
If there is a problem, increased, severe sweating of the feet occurs even at rest, when wearing high-quality, natural shoes and does not depend on the time of year.
How to cure sweating and foot odor? Cosmetological treatment of foot sweating can be carried out using various methods (iontophoresis, botulinum therapy); there are practically no contraindications to these methods. But still, it is important to know about them.
Contraindications to botulinum therapy: pregnancy, lactation, viral infections, acute inflammatory processes in the body, taking antibiotics, individual intolerance to botulinum toxin (in particular, its protein components). In a conversation with a doctor, when collecting an anamnesis, be sure to give accurate information about your state of health. You may need to undergo some tests.
As in the case of palmar hyperhidrosis, it is possible to treat foot hyperhidrosis with an iontophoresis device (there are also contraindications).
What are the causes and symptoms of sweaty feet?
Our body begins to “produce” sweat when the brain sends an impulse to the sweat glands as a signal for thermoregulation of the body or as a response to our emotional state - fear or excitement.
Some people experience excessive sweating, otherwise known as hyperhidrosis.
One of the symptoms of excessive sweating of the feet is a strong unpleasant odor and whitening of the skin. The risk of the disease increases when wearing tight shoes. The humid and warm environment inside shoes is an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria, which is the source of the unpleasant odor.
There are no precise studies on what degree of foot sweating is normal. It's safe to say that sweating should be classified as excessive if the problem is bothering you and interfering with your daily life.
Although we know that sweating occurs due to an uncontrolled part of the nervous system, the exact causes of excessive sweating are not yet known.
Treatment of excessive sweating of the feet or hyperhidrosis
How to stop sweaty feet? Treatment of leg hyperhidrosis is aimed at long-term relief from unpleasant symptoms and usually begins with conservative measures: for example, special means that control the process of sweating. A medical antiperspirant can be used to treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). The skin on the feet is less sensitive than on other parts of the body, so it is possible to use an antiperspirant with an increased concentration of active substances. However, the possibility of irritation also remains.
Doctors often prescribe a physiotherapeutic procedure - iontophoresis sessions. Under the influence of a constant galvanic current of low strength, the function of the sweat glands is disrupted (they reduce secretion). This method of therapy has a number of contraindications, and also requires patience and commitment from the patient to possibly long-term treatment.
The method of injecting botulinum toxin into the problem area is more predictable in terms of effectiveness: the amount of sweat produced is significantly reduced after the first procedure. And it lasts for 6-8 months.
Vishnevsky ointment for acne
Despite the existence of many highly specialized drugs for the treatment of pimples and acne, Vishnevsky ointment remains a popular remedy for getting rid of this cosmetic problem.
The most popular way to treat the face with ointment is to apply it to gauze with pre-prepared holes for the eyes, nose and mouth; the gauze is applied to the skin for at least two hours. Knowing about the unpleasant odor of the drug, it is worth carrying out the procedure in the evening or at night.
Another way to use the ointment is to apply it to a spot on a pimple or spread it on an area of skin affected by acne.
It is worth noting that the ointment is not a panacea, and therefore the treatment will not give immediate results. Be patient and carry out the procedure regularly.
The effectiveness of Vishnevsky ointment in the treatment of acne has been proven by its practical use over many years.
In addition to cosmetic imperfections of the facial skin, the ointment can also be effective in the treatment of boils. In this case, make a gauze bandage, fold the flap four times and apply ointment, attach it with a bandage or adhesive plaster to a single boil. In this case, the compress should be kept on the face for about 8-10 hours. Thanks to the ointment, the process of breaking through the boil is accelerated, which accompanies rapid healing and reduces the risk of a scar at the site of the lesion.
Botulinum toxin injections
Botulinum toxin, represented by several brands of drugs, has proven itself in the treatment of sweating of the feet: for 6-8 months the patient forgets about the problem of increased sweating in the feet. After the expiration date, botulinum therapy can be used again: in this case, the duration of action of the drug will increase.
Many people are interested in how to get rid of foot sweating with injections, how to treat foot hyperhidrosis with botulinum toxin preparations? We'll tell you about the procedure.
Treatment of sweating and foot odor with Botox is a cosmetic procedure. It can be performed by a cosmetologist.
Composition of Vishnevsky ointment
The composition of the “queen” of ointments was developed by the famous Russian surgeon Alexander Vasilyevich Vishnevsky. The ingenious recipe included three main ingredients: birch tar, xeroform and castor oil. Tar, oil and xeroform, when combined, were able to perform the main tasks for successful wound healing - limit the access of oxygen, warm, protect against pathogenic bacteria (xeroform has disinfectant properties).
The exact modern composition of the ointment is as follows - 100 g of liniment contains birch tar - 3 g, xeroform - 3 g, excipients: aerosil, castor oil.
Today, the ointment is used in the treatment of boils, abscesses, lymphadenitis and other cases of skin damage that are associated with prolonged healing and a high risk of infection. By and large, today there is practically no wound on the skin to which Dr. Vishnevsky’s ointment would not be applied. In folk medicine, on the initiative of non-doctors, ointment began to be used for calluses, bedsores and ulcers. And the methods of its use are varied, from simple application to the skin to bandages and tampons.
However, like any other drug, Vishnevsky’s remedy has limitations in use, such as:
- long-term use may cause a local allergic reaction (rash, itching);
- It is forbidden to apply the ointment to the mucous membranes of the mouth and eyes.
The only contraindication to the use of Vishnevsky ointment is individual intolerance to the ingredients of the drug (birch tar, xeroform, castor oil).
Progress of the procedure
- The doctor collects the patient’s medical history and conducts a visual examination (tests are ordered if the doctor has questions). If there are no contraindications (for example, nail fungus), you can proceed with the procedure.
- Next, an iodine-starch test or Minor's test is performed; it is painless and necessary to determine the location of the sweat glands and the intensity of hyperhidrosis. The doctor treats the feet with iodine and then sprinkles them with starch. As a result of a chemical reaction, the problem area (excessive sweating) turns purple. The places where it is most pronounced are areas for Botox (injections) for sweaty feet.
- The doctor applies an anesthetic cream to the feet: the feet have a fairly large number of nerve endings. There may be some slight discomfort, but overall the procedure is almost painless.
- After the cream takes effect, the doctor injects botulinum toxin into the area of the feet (usually 50 units each). This process will take no more than 10-15 minutes.
- The cold that the doctor applies to the treated area will have a calming and decongestant effect.
Already on the 2-3rd day you will feel the effect of the procedure - sweat production will be significantly reduced!
Medical indications for use
The ointment is an antiseptic for external use. The main format for producing the ointment is liniment in the form of an ointment for use on the skin. Liniment is a substance with a more liquid structure, unlike an ointment, which makes it easier to apply the drug to a wound or skin surface.
Indications for the use of Vishnevsky ointment are:
- boils,
- abscesses,
- lymphadenitis,
- boils,
- ulcers,
- trophic ulcers,
- varicose leg ulcers,
- thrombophlebitis,
- obliterating endarteritis,
- frostbite treatment
- treatment of burns (including large surfaces),
- treatment of wound surfaces,
- treatment of bedsores.
The drug has demonstrated high effectiveness in the treatment of teenage acne or acne.
Vishnevsky ointment is also used to treat hemorrhoids, as well as various types of inflammation of the genital organs and appendages in women, which often lead to infertility.
Due to the almost complete absence of side effects and contraindications, the ointment is well tolerated by children and is very popular in the treatment of many childhood diseases.
This remedy can be used simultaneously with the use of dietary supplements, which speed up the treatment process, but under the supervision of a surgeon or attending physician.
Arguments against Vishnevsky ointment
Many modern specialists and medical practitioners consider Vishnevsky’s ointment to be a rather mediocre product, which is still highly popular only due to its wide range of applications, relative cheapness, lack of contraindications and complications, as well as thanks to “grandmother’s” radio and over-the-counter sales, which made the ointment “ entrance to every house."
Modern experts recognize the relevance and effectiveness of using Vishnevsky ointment only in the case of treating boils and ulcers, since it has a warming effect - the basis for the treatment of these problems.
In relation to the treatment of wounds and more complex diseases, Vishnevsky ointment has lost its relevance. Modern pharmacology can offer the patient and his doctor more effective drugs and drugs with complex action.
In addition, these days the high effectiveness of the ointment and its safety have been questioned. Scientists express the point of view that Vishnevsky’s ointment, by creating a dense fatty film on the surface of the wound, promotes the development of microorganisms in it that live without access to oxygen, of which there are many in nature and can cause serious complications.
Vishnevsky ointment during pregnancy
As mentioned above, Vishnevsky ointment is often and effectively used for inflammation of the pelvic organs and appendages in women. But it is worth noting that this area of application of the drug must be strictly carried out as prescribed by the attending physician and exclusively under his supervision. Self-medication in this case can only aggravate the problem or cause serious complications.
Women who have problems with the pelvic organs are prescribed tampons with Vishnevsky ointment.
During pregnancy, the ointment has no contraindications for external use. In hospital departments today, Vishnevsky’s ointment is not very popular, since more powerful drugs have already been created, but for self-treatment of external problems this remedy is very good.
An important point for successful treatment is treating the area where the ointment is applied with alcohol after removing the compress.
During pregnancy, a common problem in women is varicose veins in the legs. In this case, to relieve pain and improve blood flow, you can wrap with gauze and Vishnevsky ointment until the ointment dries completely.
Vishnevsky ointment for hemorrhoids
Vishnevsky ointment is not a narrow-profile and specific remedy for the treatment of hemorrhoids (varicose dilation of the hemorrhoidal veins of the rectum), in this case its purpose is somewhat different.
When diagnosed with hemorrhoids, the ointment is prescribed to pregnant women and nursing mothers, as well as to all patients in cases of inflammation of hemorrhoids.
During the period of inflammation of hemorrhoids in the first days, patients are shown baths with a weak solution of potassium permanganate, gauze is moistened in the solution and applied to the problem area for one and a half to two hours. On the fourth day, Vishnevsky ointment is added to the treatment. An ointment is applied to a wide strip of gauze folded in four and applied to the locations of the hemorrhoids. The compress is used continuously for two days with the dressing changed every twelve hours.
Vishnevsky ointment can be used not only in the form of compresses, but also in the form of microenemas or regular application to the affected area. If you use microenemas, you must first consult with your doctor to determine if there are any contraindications, and also learn in detail about the process of using them.
Review of effective anti-sweat products
Heavy sweating in most cases occurs due to hot weather or excitement. Excessive sweating is called the general term hyperhidrosis, when we are talking about unpleasant foot odor - bromidosis.
When choosing anti-sweat products, you need to focus on the sensitivity of your own skin and its tendency to allergic reactions. For regular use, it is best to buy soft hygiene products that contain natural ingredients. Chemical products can darken or, on the contrary, whiten the armpit area.
Anti-sweating medications have a cumulative effect, so they are suitable for people who want to get rid of the problem for a long time.
Pasta Teymurova
Paste for external use “Teymurov’s Paste”
Teymurov's paste is a medicinal product that has an antibacterial, drying and deodorizing effect. The drug should not be used in the presence of cracks or deep wounds. This medication blocks unpleasant odor and profuse sweating. It can be used to treat the armpits, legs, and arms.
The product should be applied 1-2 times a day to completely cleansed skin that has dried naturally, that is, without using a towel. Within 4-5 days a pronounced effect will appear. For acute or chronic diseases, the course of treatment will take 7-15 days.
Due to improper, excessive use, adverse reactions may occur:
- rash;
- irritation;
- peeling;
- convulsions (in rare cases).
Cost of the drug: about 100 rubles. Sold in pharmacies and online stores.
Pasta Lassara
"Lassara Pasta"
Lassara paste is a universal medicine that helps get rid of odor and prevents you from sweating. The product contains 2 active ingredients: salicylic acid and zinc. Both substances have a pronounced antiseptic and antibacterial effect. Lassara paste is most often used to treat acne, pimples and other skin defects. It can be used on areas prone to excessive sweating, even in the presence of wounds and ulcers. The paste also contains Vaseline, a substance that softens and smoothes the skin.
Instructions for use: the product should be applied in a thin layer 1-2 times a day. If necessary, the number of applications can be increased to 3-4 times a day. The medicine is not recommended for people with dry and overly sensitive skin.
Salicylic-zinc ointment is exactly the same product, only produced by other manufacturers. The preparation may also not contain petroleum jelly, which is why it will ungodly dry out the epidermis.
Cost of Lassara paste: from 50 to 140 rubles. You can buy it in pharmacies.
Formidron
Solution "Formidron"
An antiseptic agent available in the form of a solution. Formidron is used not only to treat feet and armpits, but also to clean shoes from pathogenic microorganisms. The product helps eliminate unpleasant odor and significantly reduce sweating. The medicine is designed specifically for the treatment of hyperhidrosis at all stages of development. Contains formaldehyde, water, cologne and ethyl alcohol. If used incorrectly, the solution can severely dry out the skin.
The drug cannot be used immediately after shaving; you need to wait at least a day. The solution can be used a maximum of 2 times a day (in case of severe sweating). The medicine should be applied between the fingers and also applied to the armpits. After the first use, increased sweating will disappear for a period of 2 to 14 days. Formidron is a low-toxic drug, so you should consult a dermatologist before using it.
Urotropin
Solution "Urotropin"
Hexamine is a high-quality antiseptic that is similar in action to Formidron. When exposed to an acidic-humid environment, the product forms formaldehyde, a substance that has a powerful antibacterial effect. The drug is available in the form of tablets, ampoules and solution. Tablets can be taken only after medical consultation.
For the armpit area you need a 5% solution (ampoules), and for the legs 40% is suitable. For your own convenience, the product should be applied to clean cloths or napkins. Use no more than 3 times a week. Course of treatment: 2-3 weeks.
Cost of the drug: from 50 to 200 rubles, depending on the form of release. You can buy it in pharmacies.
Powder Galmanin
Powder "Galmanin"
The powder helps eliminate excessive sweating without causing irritation or dryness. It can be applied to the legs and armpits. The product is also used to treat shoes. Galmanin powder has a pronounced antiseptic effect; it gently dries the epidermis without causing irritation. This is the best option for people with hypersensitive skin.
In order to get rid of increased sweating, you need to apply the powder 1-2 times a day. It is highly recommended to pour the product into your shoes and leave it overnight. This way you can get rid of sweaty feet. The course of treatment lasts about 14 days. If used incorrectly or in excess, the drug may cause a rash.
Cost: from 50 to 120 rubles. You can buy it in pharmacies.
Dry Dry
Deodorant "Dry Dry"
Dry Dry is a company that produces quality anti-sweat products. Particularly popular is the deodorant from this company, which can eliminate sweating for 48 hours. All Dry Dry products contain aluminum hydrochloride, a substance that tightens pores and normalizes the functioning of sweat glands. Many products also contain alcohol, which acts as a solvent, and flavoring. Many customers consider Dry Dry deodorant to be the best in its category. The product really helps fight sweating, but it is not suitable for every girl. The product can cause severe allergies due to the alcohol and chemical fragrances in the composition, so it must be used carefully.
Apply deodorant no more than 2 times a day to cleansed skin. Before putting on clothes, allow the product to dry a little (1-2 minutes). Otherwise, wet or white spots will appear.
Products from the Dry Dry company cost from 300 rubles. The average price of a deodorant is 500 rubles. You can purchase the products in pharmacies and online stores. → Review of Dry Dry
Odorex
Odorex Extra Dry
Odorex Extra Dry is produced in Holland. The deodorant is available in 50 ml glass packaging. Despite the small volume, the product lasts for 5-6 months of use. Odorex Extra Dry has a pronounced antiseptic and antimicrobial effect. Apply to the armpits and legs. The product is not suitable for women with sensitive skin as it contains alcohol.
The product should be applied to a napkin or a clean cloth. To treat the armpit area you will need literally a few drops. Deodorant should only be applied to clean skin.
Product cost: from 100 to 500 rubles (depending on the place of purchase). This product is not sold in the Russian Federation, so it must be ordered online.
5 days
Pharmacy remedy for sweat and odor “5 days”
5 days (5d) is a pharmaceutical product from the company Galenopharm. The drug is available in the form of powder and ointment. The powder can be used for foot hygiene and shoe treatment. The name of the drug in this case speaks for itself. The manufacturer promises that in 5 days a person will completely get rid of excessive sweating and unpleasant odor. The ointment and powder have a powerful antiseptic effect due to the zinc oxide in the composition. Also, both products contain glycine. The ointment contains menthol, which has a cooling and soothing effect.
The powder should be applied as follows:
- sprinkle 1 sachet into your shoes before leaving home (course of treatment: 5 days);
- treat the feet, especially the areas between the toes (course of treatment: from 3 to 5 days).
The ointment is applied no more than 2 times a day. It pleasantly cools, relieves fatigue and eliminates unpleasant odors. The course of treatment takes from 5 to 14 days. Protection against sweating lasts for 1-2 months.
The cost of the powder: about 100-120 rubles, the price of the ointment – 150-200 rubles. You can buy it in pharmacies.
Sweat stone
Mineral against sweat and odor
Anti-Sweat Stone is a mineral that helps protect the skin from odor and pathogens. It is recommended to purchase not the stone itself, but products containing it. For example: natural deodorant “Crystal of Freshness”, which can be purchased in natural cosmetics stores. The stone itself that reduces sweating is called alunite. The mineral dissolves in water and is odorless. The easiest way to purchase a stone is through the Internet.
How to use? The mineral can be dissolved in water and used as a solution. There is also nothing special about using deodorant with alunite: it should be applied to clean skin and left until completely dry for 1-2 minutes. Natural remedies are the best solution for daily use. They do not injure the skin and do not cause allergies.
Cost of an anti-sweat stone: from 200 rubles. Deodorants containing it have different prices.
→ Reviews of products for excessive sweating on our project
