Excessive Foot Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)

Sweating is a natural thermoregulatory mechanism that protects against overheating and helps maintain the skin's proper pH. Excessive sweating is called hyperhidrosis, which causes the secretion of an unusually large amount of sweat without intense physical activity or high body temperature.

Causes of excessive foot sweating

There are two main types of hyperhidrosis:

• Primary (genetic) hyperhidrosis occurs without an underlying disease, often appears during adolescence, and affects approximately 1–2% of the population.
• Secondary hyperhidrosis is associated with other factors, such as hormonal disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, menopause), obesity, circulatory problems, chronic stress, improper foot hygiene, non-breathable footwear, or prolonged use of protective shoes.

Symptoms of excessive foot sweating

• excessive moisture and stickiness of the skin
• unpleasant odor
• softening and maceration of the skin
• proneness to chafing and irritation
• feeling of slipping in shoes
• cracks in the skin (especially between the toes)

What can hyperhidrosis lead to?

Constant skin moisture weakens its natural protective barrier. This promotes the development of:

• bacterial infections
• fungal infections of feet and nails
• Use antibacterial and antifungal agents (thyme, sage, rosemary as herbal foot salts or apply Microdacyn 60)

Foot care recommendations:

1. Use antiperspirant once daily for at least 2 weeks
2. Wash feet daily and dry thoroughly (especially between the toes)
3. Use antibacterial and antifungal agents (thyme, sage, rosemary as herbal foot salts or apply Microdacyn 60)
4. Frequently 'air out' the feet and walk without socks or in cotton/silver-ion socks
5. Wear breathable shoes and avoid staying in wet footwear
6. After removing the post-treatment dressing (ideally after 24h), apply a foot care product at home once daily (at night) under the dressing
7. Use probiotic sprays or soaps/foams to restore healthy skin microbiome (e.g., Pharmaceris A, Tołpa physio microbiome, Pedi Pro, Podopharm)
8. Recommended professional foot care at the clinic every 7–14 days