How to Control Sweat on Your Wedding Day

We all know that your wedding day will be full of perfect memories, but, let's face it, there will likely be a few stress-inducing moments, too. And with stress, unfortunately, comes sweat, and lots of it for some people.

We've all experienced it, so there's nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to sweating your big day. After all, between the crowds or an outdoor venue during the summer, perspiration is inevitable. However, if you've been researching "how to stop sweating on my face in summer" or "ways to not sweat on my wedding day," we're here to help!

Ahead, Brides tapped Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D., for her expert advice on at-home tips and in-office procedures brides can consider before saying "I do." From using liquid antiperspirant to trying out Botox, here are the top seven ways to control sweat on your wedding day.

Refrigerate Your Cosmetics

This might sound a bit strange, but consider putting all your skincare products in the fridge the night before your wedding. You can invest in a miniature makeup fridge—perfect for storing nifty beauty tools like jade rollers to de-puff—or just stick them in a beverage cooler or kitchen refrigerator. Then, on the big day, everything from your moisturizer to your foundation will literally cool you down as you apply it (you can even toss your fragrance mist in there for a refreshing burst every time you spray).

Once you or your makeup artist has applied your chilled-down cosmetics, be sure to use a mattifying powder on the parts of your face that sweat the most to avoid sweat beads from forming. A chilled setting spray should be applied last to keep everything in place, as well.

Apply Liquid Antiperspirant to Problem Areas

A tried-and-true beauty product, gel, liquid, or cream antiperspirant can be used in far more areas than just your armpits. We all have trouble areas when it comes to sweat, and whether it's the back of your neck, upper lip, or palms, there's an easy solution. Simply apply an unscented, liquid antiperspirant to help keep the dampness at bay while going completely unnoticed. What's more, keep it in your bridal clutch for easy access throughout your special day.

Additionally, Dr. Garshick adds that timing is key when using an antiperspirant. "It is most effective to use an antiperspirant at night because [it] is designed to plug up the sweat glands, which is easiest to do at night when the sweat glands are not active or filled with sweat, so the sweat ducts are able to absorb more of the aluminum and therefore be more effective," she shares. "Importantly, it is also advised to ensure the area is completely dry prior to application to minimize irritation, which is easier to do at night. But make sure to avoid applying immediately after showering when the skin can still feel damp."

Recommended Antiperspirants to Try

According to Dr. Garshick, below are the top products to consider in order to control sweat on your wedding day:

• Dove Ultimate Antiperspirant (Peony and Rosewater): "For someone seeking an antiperspirant option that is also gentle on the skin, this antiperspirant uses a water-based technology and contains a high concentration of glycerin to keep the underarm skin hydrated, healthy, and without irritation, while also helping to protect against sweat and odor."
• Certain Dri Prescription Strength Antiperspirant invisible Roll-On: "Containing aluminum chloride, this antiperspirant contains the same ingredient that is found in prescription antiperspirants to effectively reduce sweating. It is best to apply at nighttime for maximum benefit and to minimize irritation."
• Degree Unlimited: "Delivering both sweat and odor protection, this Dry Spray absorbs easily and leaves the skin protected for up to 96 hours. It contains SmartAdapt Tech that creates a micro barrier to deliver long-lasting protection. It won’t leave the skin feeling sticky."
• Vanicream Deodorant: "This deodorant is aluminum-free that is a good option for those with especially sensitive skin, as it avoids plant-based starches and mineral clays. Additionally, it is free of parabens, formaldehyde, botanical extracts, alcohol, gluten, lanolin, and fragrance."
•  ANDALOU Naturals Cannacell Botanical Deodorant (Rosemary and Lemon Balm): "This deodorant works well to fight odor using CannaCell antioxidants and organic hemp seed oil, in addition to vegan probiotics. It can be used daily and is gentle on the skin. Additionally, it is gluten-free and cruelty-free and offers a fresh scent leaving the underarms feeling and smelling good all day long."

Try a Cooling Spritz

Interested in keeping your body temperature down all day long? Try a do-it-yourself cooling mist with aromatherapeutic properties to invigorate your senses and keep you cool. Simply mix a few drops of peppermint oil into a spray bottle full of water, and use it to mist your entire body before getting dressed. The menthol in the oil will provide an immediate tingle (and perky scent) and offer a cooling sensation anytime a breeze passes by. You can even spritz some on your neck and chest anytime you feel yourself heating up.

Experiment With Different Products

When it comes to keeping cool on your wedding day, it's okay to think outside of the box. Look for products with cooling properties, and apply them on your feet, down the middle of your back, or on your neck, even if that's not where they were made to go.

Dr. Garshick also recommends a few prescription products that could help manage uncontrollable sweat. "There are prescriptions that can be considered depending on which area is the focus of treatment. For example, if the sweating is more generalized, it may help to use an oral medication like glycopyrrolate to help reduce sweating. While if it is more localized to the underarm area, there is a topical wipe called Qbrexza that can help to target the sweating in the underarm area."

Use a Chafing Powder

Anywhere your skin touches and potentially rubs can be a problem when perspiration enters into the mix. But don't sweat it—a chafing powder can help. Find one that applies as a cream and dries to a cooling powder. More specifically, a powder that's talc and aluminum-free is safe to use on even the most sensitive areas, like your inner thighs or your chest. For an inexpensive solution, baby powder works great (just make sure it's talc-free).

Consider Getting Botox

Afraid that your nerves will get the best of you on your big day? Say no more. Botox injections can be used to combat hyperhidrosis, a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating. "Botox is approved to treat excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis. While it is officially approved for sweating in the underarms,  it can also be used off-label to help with sweating on the palms, soles, and scalp," Dr. Garshick shares.

She also adds, "It is not a permanent solution, though can give long-term results ranging from three to six months. It also may not completely eliminate sweating but works well in conjunction with other treatments for hyperhidrosis, such as antiperspirants like Certain Dri Prescription Strength or Dove Antiperspirant Deodorant, topical prescriptions like Drysol or Qbrexza, and oral medications like glycopyrrolate. It may not kick in right away but can take effect within two to three weeks, so be sure to plan ahead if you think you may want this treatment for your wedding."

Try MiraDry

Aside from Botox, MiraDry is another in-office treatment to consider, especially if you're looking for a sense of permanency. "MiraDry is a handheld device that delivers electromagnetic energy to the sweat glands in the axilla, leading to the destruction of the sweat gland through thermolysis," notes Dr. Garshick. "The effects are thought to be long-lasting. It may lead to temporary swelling or bumps."