Recent research has shown that hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) is even more socially crippling than previously thought, with 63% saying it interfered with performance of tasks at work or school and 64% worrying about other people's negative reaction and judgement. The International Hyperhidrosis Society worked with major employer AT&T to support the estimated 5% of its workforce who struggle with hyperhidrosis. AT&T have recognised hyperhidrosis as a disability, which means that sufferers can benefit from accommodations at work to improve their comfort, creativity, and productivity. The company are taking measures to address the stigma and shame of excess sweating so that employees feel respected, valued and supported.International Hyperhidrosis Society Executive Director, Lisa Pieretti, said:
"As long as someone is ashamed, they will be silent."And as long as others are negatively judging someone by their perspiration, they will be excluded. AT&T’s work to recognize, accommodate and even value hyperhidrosis for the diverse perspective it brings is a huge positive step. Employees at AT&T are so fortunate to have such a forward-thinking company behind them – we can’t wait to help these attitudes spread to other workplaces worldwide."
Accommodations for Hyperhidrosis at Work
The IHhS recommend a series of accommodations that employers like AT&T can make for those with hyperhidrosis:Improving awareness of hyperhidrosis as a medical condition and recognition that sweating is NOT a character flaw or reflection of capabilities
Flexible work schedules/telecommuting
Allowing time/space to change clothing as necessary
Making specialised hyperhidrosis clothing available options for office workers and as part of field uniforms
Making sweat management accessories available (e.g. sweat pads, gloves with absorbent liners)
Making available breathable, quick-dry office chairs and vehicle seat liners
Providing waterproof/water resistant casings for computers and handheld technology
Ensure drinking water is readily available
Allowing the fist bump instead of the hand shake
Fans and cooler air conditioningHyperhidrosis Treatment
The above measures can be very helpful for a person who has hyperhidrosis. However, there is another option, in that the condition can now be treated to stop the sweating. This treatment is most effective for underarm sweating, the most common condition and one which is particularly embarrassing in a work environment, where sweaty armpits can be seen as a sign of stress or uncleanliness.The use of BOTOX® injections for treating excessive sweating is now much more widely known and is an appealing option for preventing the appearance of dark damp patches on clothing.The hyperhidrosis injections literally dry the sweat up for months at a time. These are an excellent and popular option for men and women who want to have the confidence of knowing that they are not going to be embarrassed by the sight (and in some cases the odour too) of sweat patches on clothing.
Scalp Sweating
Now that underarm BOTOX® is understood to be an effective option, clients have started to request the sweat reduction injections in their scalp and around the hairline too, to keep the head - and hair - looking and feeling fresh all day long.Botulinum Toxin injections can be used to help prevent sweaty hair. This also keeps the hair looking better - straighter and neater for longer - as the damp environment caused by sweat can cause hair to frizz and curl.
Excessive Sweating London
Dr Kubicka is an expert hyperhidrosis injections doctor, who has been quoted in Vogue magazine about the problems faced by those suffering from excessive sweating.She always takes a holistic approach to skincare treatments; being careful to understand all aspects and causes of any problem in order to treat the patient as a whole and get the best possible results from any treatments they may have.The clinic is known for anti-ageing skin treatments, including BOTOX® injections, facial fillers and IPL and has patients from Belgravia, Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Chelsea, Central and West London. There are even regular patients who travel from overseas to see Dr Kubicka.For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please contact us on 0207 125 0521 or email info@clinicbe.com
