Picture this – it’s a hot summer day, and you absent-mindedly walk your hand through your hair to shape it back into place. All of a sudden, your hand is hit by an entire wave of sweat coming right from your scalp. That’s right. Just like your back, your palms, and your feet, your scalp is just as susceptible to excessive sweating, especially if you don’t give it the proper care it requires. 

Fortunately, all hope is not lost. Just like facing the rising temperatures of summer, your scalp’s sweat levels can easily be lowered with the right equipment, a little bit of foresight and, of course, lots and lots of water. 

Here’s what you should know:

Table of contents:

• Why Does Excessive Sweating Happen?
• The Effects of Scalp Sweating
• Prevention Methods for Scalp Sweating 
• Antiperspirants
• Essential Oils
• Dry Shampoo
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Manage Your Stress Levels Better
• Stay Hydrated
• Alternate Hairstyles

Why Does Excessive Sweating Happen?

Sweating is a natural and healthy mechanism that helps clean the body of toxins and regulates our temperature. But if you notice that you sweat more than what could be considered normal, you might be suffering from a condition called hyperhidrosis. 

This condition is many times caused by genes, most people also having someone else in the family experiencing the same problem. It might appear right from birth, or it may develop later, especially during your teenage years. It can also happen to just one area (focal hyperhidrosis) or to the whole body (generalized hyperhidrosis). 

There are two types of hyperhidrosis: primary and secondary. Primary hyperhidrosis, which is the most common type, has no obvious causes, while secondary hyperhidrosis is triggered by identifiable factors like illnesses, weather, physical activity, stress, menopause, etc. Beyond the sweating aspect in and of itself, people might also experience irritation, other skin problems, and social anxiety caused by the condition itself. 

When scalp sweating becomes excessive, it is usually classified as secondary hyperhidrosis. Since it is caused by an underlying factor, it requires some form of prevention and/or treatment before the scalp produces a non-excessive amount of sweat once more.

The Effects of Scalp Sweating

Sweat can clog your pores, leading to certain bacterial infections or the development of dandruff. This is why you should make sure that you wash your hair regularly and carefully, using high-quality products that will clean the scalp thoroughly.  

If your hair is not allowed to dry properly, the excessive sweat from the scalp can result in an unpleasant smell. Another consequence of not drying your hair properly after sweating is the risk of bacterial growth. Many tend to tie their hair up because of sweat, turning the scalp into a humid place perfect for breeding bacteria. 

Generally speaking, you might need to wash your hair more often than normal, especially during warmer periods of the year, as excessive sweat makes your scalp highly oily and prone to build-up. 

While scalp sweating does not directly cause hair loss, it can definitely contribute to it. Sweat can dehydrate the hair strand and, if not cleaned, block the pores, delaying natural hair growth and making breakage a lot easier. 

WOW Tip:

Thanks to its strand-smoothening and moisture-retention properties, the WOW Revitalizer Spray Conditioner is a great solution for avoiding some of the side effects of excessive sweating. Employing a day-long effect, this leave-in conditioner actively prevents pore blockages and bacteria build-up through its mix of natural compounds packed with revitalizing vitamins, making it the perfect option for those of us who have to be out in the sun all day long. 

Prevention Methods for Scalp Sweating

Hyperhidrosis, or just sweating in general, can be a very upsetting experience, often making you feel out of place in your body. Here are a few of our tried and true methods of preventing sweat, especially from the scalp, from ruining your day:

Antiperspirants

If you do suffer from excessive sweating, it is best to consult a doctor, and get their medical expertise on the subject. However, there is an easy over-the-counter solution you can appeal to in the meantime - using aluminum chloride antiperspirant on your scalp. There are antiperspirants created especially for the face and scalp, since the skin in these areas is more sensitive. If you still feel the need for something stronger, your doctor can always give you an adequate prescription for heavier medication. 

Essential Oils

If you are afraid of using harsh chemicals on your scalp, essential oils are the natural alternative, as they can help control sweat production and make your hair smell amazing. Not only that, but massaging your scalp also stimulates the blood vessels, which helps with hair growth and overall hair health. However, be careful not to use them directly, but diluted with a carrier oil, as you may run the risk of burning the scalp's sensitive skin.

Dry Shampoo

Before starting your day, you can try using dry shampoo. Owing to its powder nature, it can easily absorb oil and sweat throughout the day. However, try not to use it immediately after an episode of excessive sweating, as it can make matters worse, creating a thick paste of sweat and chemicals. To avoid that, air-dry your hair first, and then use dry shampoo as a preventive method. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an amazing natural product – not only does it make your hair shiny, but it also has the ability to control the sweat glands. Dilute a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water and use it as a short treatment after rinsing all the shampoo off your hair. Alternatively, you can use an ACV-based shampoo for a nearly identical effect, coupled with a conditioner that calms the stress that is placed upon the hair from the excessive sweating.

Manage Your Stress Levels Better

You might find that you have excessive sweating episodes when you are in really stressful situations. Try not to put yourself in uncomfortable environments that may trigger an anxious response or a panic attack. Instead, try practicing meditation, deep breathing, and make sure to carve time out of your day exclusively for your relaxation and mental health. 

Stay Hydrated

You already know that you should be drinking at least 2 liters of liquid per day. And the most important liquid of all is, of course, water. Staying hydrated keeps your body cool, which makes it sweat less, in turn protecting both your scalp and your hair follicles from any damage. 

Alternate Hairstyles

Alternate the way you wear your hair consistently, especially if you have long hair. More than that, make sure not to wear it in buns or ponytails that are too tight, as this might stop the scalp from “breathing” easily, which will cause profuse sweating once again. Finally, make sure that you don’t keep your hair in uncomfortable hairdos for multiple hours. Let it breathe, rest, and unwind before you put it back into your desired shape.

Explore the WOW website for more natural hair care products. From our all natural sulfate, silicone and paraben-free hair care collection we recommend Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Red Onion Black Seed Oil Shampoo. And if you would like to learn more about apple cider vinegar's benefits or onion oil's benefits check out our ultimate guide on how to use them on your hair.