There’s something really satisfying about leaving a workout class dripping in sweat. It’s almost like a badge of honor. But there’s hard-earned sweat and then there’s “I’m just trying to get through the day without changing my shirt three times” sweat. “Trust me, you know the difference,” says Southern Charm star Cameran Eubanks.
It may seem like the Bravolebrity is always camera-ready, but Eubanks says she suffers from a medical condition called hyperhidrosis, which basically means she sweats at hot-yoga levels while strolling through the park. “It can be really hard to be a young woman and you want to wear cute clothes but you sweat all day,” she says.
Even though over 15 million people in the United States are dealing with hyperhidrosis, it’s still not something widely talked about. “There’s a misconception that people with hyperhidrosis are unclean or this happens because you don’t take care of yourself, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth.” Eubanks says. “This is something I’ve dealt with since I was a child.”
“There’s a misconception that people with hyperhidrosis are unclean or this happens because you don’t take care of yourself, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth.”
If you think you may have hyperhidrosis (telltale signs include dripping sweat while sitting still or having to change your shirt during the day because of underarm stains), Eubanks says you should check in with your dermatologist. He or she could offer up some life-changing solutions, potentially including a prescription antiperspirant, microwave thermolysis (a treatment in which a hand-held device destroys sweat glands with energy waves), or even surgery.
A far cry from your natural deodorant, these options should only be explored after consulting with your doc on the best course of action for you and your lifestyle. Case in point: Eubanks says one popular form of treatment, Botox, didn’t work for her. “It actually made me sweat in other places,” she says. “It’s also painful and I was shocked at the number of shots that had to be done.” Eubanks adds that she also felt wary because there’s not much available research on the treatment’s longterm effects.
Mostly, Eubanks keeps a few handy tricks up her (dampened) sleeve to spare her from any awkward moments. “It’s all about choosing the right kinds of clothes,” she says. Fortunately, sweat-wicking fabric is no longer just for the gym. Eubanks also fills her closet with dark-colored garments and looks for tops with wide arm holes, which are a bit more breathable than tees.
“I’m also a big fan of the side hug,” she says. “You don’t want to get your sweat on other people!”
Eubanks’ openness and humor is a reminder that sweating—whether it’s during a workout or the workday—is nothing to be self-conscious of. And by making a few smart substitutions in your closet you can help boost your confidence without breaking a sweat (so to speak).
Speaking of sweating, here’s how to care for your skin during an extra intense workout. Plus, this trick can make you instantly feel more confident.
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