By [Luisa Skwirba] · Updated on [19.08.2026]
Sweating is a completely normal, vital bodily function – yet some people sweat much more than others. In short: we sweat to prevent our bodies from overheating; how much depends on predisposition, habituation, fitness, and environment. Simple daily habits and the right deodorant can help combat unpleasant body odor and a damp feeling on the skin. In this guide, you'll learn why we sweat, why some people sweat more and some less, and what you can do about excessive sweating.
Why do some people sweat more and others less?
Whether you sweat a lot or a little varies from person to person – and is usually perfectly normal. Three things are particularly important: how many of your sweat glands are active, how your body was trained to cope with heat in your early years, and how fit you are. Every person is born with approximately two to three million sweat glands; how many of these are active is determined early in childhood through exposure to temperature and physical activity. Fitness also plays a role: people who are physically fit often sweat earlier, but more efficiently, because their bodies have learned to cool themselves effectively. Sweating little is usually harmless. However, if sweating suddenly increases significantly or stops altogether, if you experience night sweats, or if you feel unwell, you should consult a doctor.
Why do we sweat at all?
Sweating is, in a broad sense, your body's built-in air conditioning. When you get too warm—due to heat, exercise, spicy food, or excitement—your sweat glands release fluid that forms a moist film on your skin. As this film evaporates, it draws heat away from your skin, thus cooling you down. In this way, you lose about half a liter to three liters of water a day, and significantly more in hot weather or during exercise. This is precisely why sweating isn't something you should completely suppress—it protects you from overheating. So, on hot days, drink plenty of fluids to compensate for the fluid loss.
What helps against excessive sweating?
The best way to combat excessive sweating is to train your body to regulate its natural temperature – not to suppress it. Regularly stimulating your body often leads to more balanced sweating over time. You can support this process by:
- Get some fresh air, in all weather conditions, instead of permanently in air-conditioned rooms.
- Regularly break into a sweat – through sauna or sports – trains the sweat regulation.
- Eat light: Fresh fruit, steamed vegetables and low-fat meals put less strain on the circulatory system than heavy food.
- herbal teas Drinks with sage or linden blossoms are traditionally consumed when sweating heavily.
- Breathable, lightweight clothing Made from natural fibers, heat escapes.
- Take a warm shower instead of an ice-cold one: Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, and afterwards you often sweat even more.
If the excessive sweating persists despite everything or affects your daily life, talk to your family doctor about it – there may be a treatable cause behind it.
Which deodorant helps with excessive sweating?
When you sweat heavily, a natural deodorant is primarily about one thing: neutralizing odor and absorbing moisture – not blocking sweat. This is the key difference compared to classic antiperspirants: these use aluminum salts to constrict sweat ducts and reduce the amount of perspiration. A natural deodorant without aluminum deliberately avoids this and instead relies on ingredients like baking soda and essential oils, which keep odor-causing bacteria in check, as well as absorbent clay (kaolin), which soaks up moisture. For many, this is perfectly sufficient for everyday use and feels more comfortable than a completely dry underarm area. If you sweat a lot, it's best to combine the deodorant with the tips above and breathable clothing. BEN&ANNA offers natural deodorants in various forms and scents – aluminum-free, vegan, and with minimal plastic packaging. [ Link to deodorants]
Can animals sweat too?
Sweating is a typical human trait, but not exclusive to us: horses, monkeys, camels, some big cats, and bears can also sweat through their skin. Many other animals cool themselves in different ways – dogs, for example, pant to release heat through their tongues. A small example of how cleverly nature has solved the problem of cooling.
Frequently asked questions about sweating
Why do I sweat so little?
Experiencing little sweat is usually harmless and depends on how many of your sweat glands are active and how fit your body is. However, if sweating suddenly decreases significantly, consult a doctor.
What helps quickly against body odor?
A natural deodorant with baking soda or essential oils neutralizes odor-causing bacteria. Fresh, breathable clothing and regular washing of the affected areas provide additional support.
Does an aluminum-free deodorant help with heavy sweating?
It doesn't reduce the amount of sweat like an antiperspirant with aluminum, but it combats odor and absorbs moisture. For most people, that's sufficient for everyday use.
When should I see a doctor if I'm sweating excessively?
If sweating occurs suddenly, significantly impacts your daily life, occurs at night (night sweats), or is accompanied by other symptoms, have it checked by a doctor.
Conclusion
Sweating is healthy and important – it protects you from overheating, and whether you sweat a lot or a little is usually simply a matter of predisposition. Simple habits and a natural deodorant that neutralizes odor instead of blocking sweat can help combat unpleasant odors and a damp feeling on the skin. If excessive sweating remains bothersome, medical advice is the right next step. This way, you can find a balance that makes you feel completely comfortable.
