At Longhorn Dermatology in Spicewood, Texas, board-certified dermatologists Dr. Brian Ransdell and Dr. Megan Trainor, along with physician assistant Elyse Weed, provide advanced, personalized care for a wide range of skin concerns. The team takes a thoughtful approach to diagnosing and treating conditions like excessive sweating, combining medical expertise with proven solutions to help you feel comfortable and confident again.
1. You’re Applying It at the Wrong Time
Antiperspirant is most effective when applied at night, not right before heading out the door. That’s because sweat glands are less active while you sleep, allowing the ingredients—usually aluminum salts—to plug the sweat ducts more effectively. Applying it to damp skin or right after showering can dilute the formula, reducing its effectiveness.
2. Product Buildup Is Blocking Its Absorption
Over time, layering products like deodorant, lotion, and body spray can create residue that prevents antiperspirant from reaching the sweat glands. Washing with a gentle exfoliant or mild cleanser can help remove buildup and restore performance. If you notice white residue or irritation, it’s a sign that the formula may not be fully absorbing.
3. Your Skin’s Microbiome Is Off Balance
Your skin hosts natural bacteria that help manage odor, but harsh soaps or antibacterial washes can disrupt that balance. When the microbiome becomes unbalanced, odor may worsen even when you’re not sweating more. A dermatologist can recommend gentle, pH-balanced cleansers that protect healthy skin flora while keeping odor in check.
4. Heat and Humidity Are Working Against You
Texas humidity can make antiperspirant seem ineffective. Moist air keeps sweat from evaporating, leaving you feeling damp even when your product is working as intended. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or moisture-wicking blends can help, but persistent sweat in all conditions could indicate a medical issue like hyperhidrosis.
5. Hormonal or Medication Changes Are Increasing Sweat Production
Fluctuating hormones from puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can increase sweat and odor production. Certain prescription or over-the-counter medications may also cause excessive sweating as a side effect. If your sweating pattern has changed suddenly, it’s worth having your dermatologist evaluate whether an underlying condition is contributing.
6. You’re Experiencing “Formula Fatigue”
It’s not that your body becomes resistant to antiperspirant—it’s that your skin or sweat chemistry can change over time. This “formula fatigue” might mean your current product is too weak for your needs. Clinical-strength or prescription-grade antiperspirants can provide longer-lasting relief, especially for those who sweat heavily or frequently.
7. It’s More Than Sweat—It’s Hyperhidrosis
If you’re sweating through your clothes or noticing persistent wetness even in cool weather, you could have hyperhidrosis, a condition where sweat glands are overactive. Longhorn Dermatology offers several treatment options depending on the severity of your symptoms. Common medical treatments for excessive sweating include:
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Prescription-strength antiperspirants to reduce sweat gland activity
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Oral medication that helps control or block the nerve signals that stimulate sweating
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Botox® injections, which temporarily block the nerves that trigger underarm sweating, with results lasting up to six months
These treatments can dramatically reduce sweating, improve comfort, and help you feel more confident day to day.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your antiperspirant isn’t working despite proper use, it’s time to get expert help. A dermatologist can determine whether lifestyle, skin health, or a medical condition like hyperhidrosis is the cause—and recommend targeted treatment that goes beyond what you can find in stores.
At Longhorn Dermatology in Spicewood, Texas, Dr. Brian Ransdell and Dr. Megan Trainor provide expert care for excessive sweating and other skin concerns. Schedule a consultation today at 512-961-5250 to explore effective treatment options for hyperhidrosis.
