Stay dry this summer

Summer is a time for partying, long days spent at the beach, and of course, perspiration. Sweating is perfectly natural – our bodies perspire to cool us – but you need to take extra precautions to keep dry during the hot summer months. Although we all perspire to regulate our body temperatures, changes in the weather, diet and medical conditions can increase the amount we sweat. It’s not actually the sweat that smells – it’s when it comes into contact with the bacteria on our bodies that the trouble begins. Clearly, your first port of call is some form of antiperspirant or deodorant. But what exactly is the difference between them?

Antiperspirants

• work by closing or blocking the pores with powerful astringents so that they can’t release sweat
• are typically applied to the underarms
• usually also contain a fragranced deodorant

Deodorants

• work by neutralising the smell of the sweat and by antiseptic action against bacteria
• don’t prevent sweating, so you will still have the feeling of wetness
• are usually in spray form and are applied to the body to combat body odour
• may be used on most areas of the body
• may also contain perfume fragrances to mask odour
• don’t interfere with sweating, which is a natural cooling process

Deodorants and antiperspirants come in many forms. Roll-ons and sticks are considered more effective because they are applied directly to the skin.

Tips

• Drink plenty of cold water to help lower your body temperature.
• Wear cool, light-coloured, loose-fitting summer clothes made from breathable, natural fibres such as cotton.
• Baking soda neutralises the odour of sweat. Just sprinkle a light covering of baking soda onto a damp washcloth and pat on.
• Avoid spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine.
• If you are over-weight, try to lose some weight – it’s healthier, too.
• Make sure you wash well, concentrating on areas that sweat the most such as the underarms; keeping your underarms shaved will help.
• Pour ice-cold water into a clean spray bottle and keep spritzing your skin to keep cool.
• Get a small fan that you can carry around with you in your bag.