The medical term for a super-sweaty groin is inguinal hyperhidrosis. There’s about a 50-50 chance you can blame one of your parents for the fact that the sweat glands in that region are extra-sensitive to heat and exercise, says our friend Dr. Jessica Wu, a Los Angeles dermatologist. Don’t stress (which will only make it worse): there are likely a couple of other people in your Zumba class whose parents bequeathed them dampness down there. What you wear can make a big difference: leave the Lycra tights and bike shorts behind because they trap heat. Instead, swaddle your nether region in synthetics such as polyester, nylon, or a blend of the two. Sports-specific underwear with mesh panels may be worth the extra cost. Try a skort or loose shorts with built-in mesh underwear. Wu also recommends applying a “clinical strength” roll-on antiperspirant such as Dove or Secret directly to the areas that sweat most. “Just wait a day after you’ve waxed or shaved to avoid irritating that sensitive skin,” Jessica reminds us. If you’re sufficiently bothered, you can even ask your dermatologist about Botox—a twice-a-year injection will block the nerves that signal sweating. But we suggest just going to a more intense workout class, where you can be assured that everyone will sweat buckets.
–Jessica is author of Feed Your Face. Check out JessicaWu.com for more tips on caring for your skin.
