If you resolved to get a new job in the new year but can?t think about interview stress without breaking a sweat, it may be time to visit your dermatologist.
For some people, excessive sweating is a fact of life, said Owings Mills dermatologist Barbara Honig. The condition, called hyperhidrosis, can affect any part of the body, but usually results in profuse sweating of the forehead, underarms, palms and soles of the feet.
“It can be affected by nerves, in the case of a job interview, or medications,” she said.
For most people, controlling their anxiety by preparing for an interview and maximum strength antiperspirants should keep them dry, she said.
The condition ? which can result in sweat rings under the arms, visible sweat on the forehead or an uncomfortable handshake ? is serious business for anyone trying to land a job or seal a deal, according to polls.
In a survey by the International Hyperhidrosis Society and Harris Interactive, two-thirds of adults perceive someone who is sweating to be “nervous,” and four out of 10 adults who sweat on the job say their sweating makes them feel very upset.
More than 60 percent of respondents said job-related issues make them sweat more than anything else, according to the poll.
Because of insurance regulations, Honig said she usually prescribes an aluminum chloride ointment, which effectively blocks sweat glands.
“Most people don?t tolerate it very well,” however, she said.
For most people, Botox injections work. Honig said dermatologists don?t know how this works, though the treatment is approved by the FDA. She thinks “Botox affects the muscles that are squeezing sweat glands and causing them to release sweat.”
The treatment is costly, at $1,200, and most insurance plans won?t cover it, except as a last resort.
“A lot of my patients carry extra T-shirts and change them through the day, sometimes as many as 10,” Honig said.
Staying sweat-free
» Do your homework on a potential employer so that you are informed, can minimize surprises and stay cool.
» Apply antiperspirant twice a day, once before bed, and apply to your hands and feet if needed.
» Avoid sweat-inducing spicy foods, caffeinated beverages and alcohol in the days leading up to an interview.
» Choose a cool glass of water instead of coffee if offered.
