How to Prevent Sweat Stains from Ruining Your Day

It’s an all too familiar story: A pogi lider walks along the mall looking fresh and, well, handsome. He removes his jacket, perhaps to show off a chiseled body that a T-shirt can’t even try to conceal. It could have been Adonis himself except it was hard to see anything past the pit puddles. Don’t let unsightly yellow marks ruin your confidence. Scroll down for tips on how to prevent sweat stains.

You comb your hair so why shouldn’t you tidy up your armpits? You don’t have to shave it all off if you don’t want to. However, know that bushier underarm hair is a sweat and odor trap. Better-groomed ‘pits dry faster, leaving no time for armpit stains and anghit to develop.

Are you using antiperspirant? Did you know that sweat-blocking sticks work best when they meet your skin?

First of all, are you using antiperspirant or deodorant? There is a difference. Deodorant masks body odor while antiperspirants manage sweat. Most products these days combine both in a single stick or spray, but that might not be what you have if your excessive sweating still isn’t under control.

Change your old product to Dove Men+Care Deodorant Spray Invisible Dry. It has a non-irritating formula and 48-hour protection from armpit sweat and smell. Like most Dove items, it also has 1/4 moisturizing cream to spoil your underarms.

Here are some ways to make sure your antiperspirant works more effectively:

Apply it after you shower but make sure your skin is clean and dry. Damp underarms dilute the effect and may irritate the skin.

A British Journal of Dermatology study proves that putting on antiperspirant at night allows the active ingredients to work better. However, you can still reapply in the morning.

Don’t spray or swipe antiperspirant when you’re already sweating. Think of it as a preventative measure.

It's a less obvious tip on how to prevent sweat stains. If you feel warm or are in a stuffy environment, drink up. Water cools down your body, mollifying your sweat glands. Moreover, if you are already sweating, it helps rehydrate your body.

By now, you should know if you’re prone to overactive sweat glands. Or you can at least assess whether where you’re going or what you’re doing will cause you to perspire. Avoid colors that will emphasize potential wetness, such as light gray. Don’t wear white either since that’s a blank canvas for yellow sweat stains. Dress cool and opt for shirts that are lightweight and breathable. You can also use moisture-wicking fabrics that dry fast.

Lastly, wear an undershirt. Many men shun undershirts because they believe an extra layer will make them warmer. Don’t be one of them. A sando can absorb excess sweat and can make you feel cooler and cleaner.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. If you’re sweating extra profusely, pull out your emergency baby powder stash. How to prevent sweat stains in this case? Excuse yourself, go to the restroom, and freshen up. Pat some powder on your ’pits to sop up pawis. It refreshes you and can even liven your spirits thanks to its fragrance.

Remember, sweating is normal. Don’t let it ruin your day or confidence.