Don’t sweat nervousness

5 tips to prevent nervous sweating from ruining a big event. 

Story: Billy Thompson

A big event or presentation is an impactful moment in many people’s lives. Their performance in front of the executive team could mean a new promotion. Or maybe they’re toasting the bride and groom and want to make a lasting impact with their kind words or encouragement. And a “big event” can be a first date or meeting the in-laws for the first time. No matter the occasion, there’s something that can derail even the best-prepared speech or first impression: excessive underarm sweat. Giant sweat rings are a distraction that can take away from your performance and adjust how people think about you.

Thankfully, you can take steps to reduce sweat and turn your big event into a monumental success.

Pick the right clothing and material

If you’re naturally a heavy sweater and get nervous during a big event, then you have to bring in some high-tech help: not a mobile app, but a scientifically designed style of undershirt that actively prevents sweat rings. There are T-shirts specifically designed to withstand the toughest sweat.

Visualize success

Picturing yourself at the big event is a great way to reduce your stress levels and your chances of over-sweating. One key is to make your “practice run” as vivid as possible. If you do this a few times, then your brain will come to think of it as an actual memory. So, when the big date or board presentation arrives, you’ll be more prepared because it won’t seem so “new” to your mind. It’s important to not only visualize the big event but also picture it reaching a successful conclusion. 

Watch what you drink

Be careful about what you put into your body to help control sweating. Coffee and tea are both diuretics which not only increase your urge to urinate, but also your amount of sweat. If you drink them hot, then it’s a “double whammy” because your temperature also will go up, as well as the amount of your sweat. Drink ice water instead to provide you with the right amount of hydration and to cool down your core.

It’s also a good idea to avoid alcohol before the event. You might want a drink to “loosen up,” but remember that alcohol affects the nervous system by increasing your heart rate and widening blood vessels. The result can be increased perspiration, especially if your event comes after a night of heavy consumption.

Manage your anxiety

Anxiety can directly cause sweating and, unfortunately, result in a “feedback loop.” You’re anxious and sweating, and then notice sweat rings appearing. This causes more anxiety, which then results in more sweating, and thus a cycle is born. Break this pattern by actively managing your anxiety through deep-breathing exercises. If you take medication for anxiety, then be sure you aren’t skipping any dosages ahead of your big event. Stay on your normal schedule and you’re much more likely to navigate your event without excessive worry. And remember that sweating from anxiety or an underlying medical condition is very common and nothing to be ashamed of.

Relax your mind

In addition to visualization, you should also put yourself in a relaxed mental and physical state before the event. Say you are meeting your in-laws for the first time at a restaurant. Get there early so you aren’t rushing. Avoid stressors that will make you sweat. If you’re making a presentation at a hotel conference, listen to soothing music in your earbuds and do some yoga breaths before going on stage. Set yourself up for success by planning your day and removing any obstacles. 

Fair or not, excessive nervous sweating that seeps through your shirt impacts how you are perceived. If you’re talking to sales clients, then they might think you’re untrustworthy. That first date might sense you are uncomfortable and nervous and lack the confidence they’re looking for in a long-term partner. Conquer your fears and make a great impression by watching your diet, visualizing success, and picking the right clothing that keeps nervous sweating at bay.

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About the writer →Billy Thompson, a sufferer of hyperhidrosis, started Thompson Tee after spending more than 10 years developing a lightweight, breathable, comfortable, and integrated underarm barrier to absorb sweat and withstand the toughest “sweat events.” Visit thompsontee.com.