Don’t Sweat It

By Vivian Wong, MD, PHD

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is increased perspiration. There are many triggers, including emotions (e.g., anxiety), physical activity, heat, and spicy food.
Hyperhidrosis may involve the extremities, underarms, and face, but it may be generalized as well. Some patients have an underlying medical condition or medication that contribute to the hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis occurs in both children and adults. Hyperhidrosis can cause significant anxiety and embarrassment and disrupt social and professional activities, especially those that require a dry grip.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis, seek a board-certified dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. The following steps may help reduce the frequency of perspiration:
• Avoid triggers if possible.
• Use antiperspirant sprays instead of deodorants.
• Wear loose-fitting or lightweight clothes made of natural fibers.
• Keep the environment cool.

In addition, there are support groups for patients suffering from hyperhidrosis such as the International Hyperhidrosis Society.
We also offer several topical and oral medications for treatment. In stubborn cases, there are noninvasive (e.g. Dysport) and surgical procedures available for hyperhidrosis as well.

MEET Vivian Wong, MD, PHD
Dr. Wong is a board-certified dermatologist with a dual M.D. and Ph.D. She joins Skin Wellness Physicians after a career as a faculty member and core teaching faculty at the Department of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. She completed her dermatology residency and served as the chief resident at Brown University. She is a renowned researcher with collaborators in North America, Europe and Asia. She has authored over 250 articles and textbook chapters to date on important topics such as eczema/atopic dermatitis, melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. She has been interviewed as a dermatology expert by the Boston Magazine, Boston25 News and QuantiaMD. She has spoken and presented at more than 50 international and domestic conferences and received more than 40 awards and research grants for her scientific and clinical endeavors. She also serves as a consultant to medical diagnostic, therapeutic and technology companies.

Dr. Wong is a leader in adult and pediatric dermatology, as well as cosmetic dermatology, offering procedures including Botox, cosmetic fillers, Kybella, chemical peels, lasers, and scalp injections for hair health. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and cooking.