How to Stop Sweating Through Shirts: 7 Ways to Stay Dry

Wear a sweat proof undershirt to prevent sweating through shirts We’ve all been there — you’re in an important meeting or getting ready for an evening out, and you notice sweat marks emerging under your arms. Frustration sets in because no matter what you do, these pesky sweat stains keep making an appearance.

Excessive underarm sweat has many causes, including heat, stress and certain medical conditions, like hyperhidrosis. Whether you’re dealing with occasional perspiration or year-round sweat stains, it can ruin your clothes and impact your confidence.

Fortunately, we’re here to help.

Learn how to stop sweating through shirts with these seven simple and practical solutions.

#1 Wear a Sweat-Proof Undershirt

If you struggle with excessive sweat, a sweat proof undershirt is one of the most effective and discreet solutions available. These shirts prevent armpit sweat from seeping through your outer layers, providing a much-needed barrier between your skin and clothing.

As you shop for a sweat proof undershirt, carefully consider the following factors:

Fit – An undershirt should fit snugly without being too tight. This allows your sweat to absorb effectively without causing discomfort.
Fabric – The best undershirts are made of soft, natural materials, like cotton or bamboo. These breathable fabrics can keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Discreetness – Make sure your undershirts are sleek enough so they won’tshow through your outer layers.

At Thompson Tee, our patented sweat proof undershirts for men and women check all these boxes. Crafted from soft, breathable fabrics, they come in a variety of colors, sizes, necklines and sleeve lengths. Better yet, they feature our clinical-grade sweat proof technology, Hydro-Shield®, which prevents moisture from creating embarassing damp marks on your outer layers.

#2 Use Antiperspirant

Many people lather on deodorant several times a day to keep sweat stains at bay. While deodorants can help mask body odor by preventing bacteria buildup in your armpits, they don’t stop wetness from accumulating.

If you want to keep your armpits dry, you’ll need to apply an antiperspirant as well. These products reduce sweating by blocking your sweat glands with aluminum. They come in stick, gel, spray and cream formulations. If you have hyperhidrosis, a prescription-strength antiperspirant may be necessary.

No matter which antiperspirant you choose, you can increase its effectiveness by:

Applying it at night when your sweat glands are less active
Ensuring your skin is clean and dry before application
Reapplying every 12 to 48 hours

#3 Trim or Shave

Hair can trap sweat, creating extra moisture and providing a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. By trimming your armpit hair, you give your antiperspirant better access to your skin and allow it to work more efficiently.

As a bonus, shaved or trimmed armpits often feel cooler and more comfortable, which can help you stay drier throughout the day.

#4 Choose the Right Fabrics

The fabric of your outer layers directly influences how easily sweat marks show. Certain materials can trap moisture, while others help wick it away, keeping you dry and preventing visible stains.

Here’s a breakdown of how different fabrics stack up:

Moisture-wicking fabrics, like polyester, merino wool and other synthetic blends, can draw sweat away from the surface of your skin so it evaporates faster. These materials are an excellent choice for days when you’re heading to the gym or doing a lot of physical activity.
Breathable, natural fabrics, such as cotton and linen, allow more air to circulate through your clothes, making them a comfortable choice on hot days. Just keep in mind that these fabrics tend to absorb moisture, putting you at risk of sweat stains. For the best results, pair these breathable fabrics with sweat-proof undershirts.
Heavy or tight materials can trap heat and increase perspiration, exacerbating sweat marks. For this reason, you’re always better off opting for lighter, loose-fitting clothing.

Learn more: 8 Sweat-Resistant and Sweat-Absorbing Fabrics Explained

#5 Adjust Your Daily Habits

Along with wearing the right clothes, you can combat excessive sweating by incorporating a few simple changes into your daily routine. Three effective steps for how to stop armpit sweat through shirt include:

Staying cool throughout the day – Sweat is your body’s natural cooling mechanism, but you can take this process into your own hands by adding or removing layers as temperatures change. Portable fans and cooling sprays can also provide instant relief, keeping you cool without increasing sweat production.
Keeping hydrated – Drinking enough water is another simple way to regulate your body temperature. Aim for at least eight glasses a day to help keep your sweat under control. The more hydrated you are, the less your body will need to sweat to achieve homeostasis.
Avoiding sweat-inducing foods – While alcohol, caffeine and spicy cuisine can be indulgent and delicious, they can also trigger perspiration. Instead, swap them out with foods that actually make you sweat less and let your sweat glands chill. (Make sure to keep this tip in mind on those days when you really want to stay dry and sweat-free.)

#6 Manage Stress

Along with heat, physical exercise and certain foods, stress can trigger sweat. When you’re nervous or anxious, your body enters “fight-or-flight” mode, causing your heart rate to spike, body temperature to rise and stress sweat glands to kick into overdrive.

Interestingly, stress sweat is chemically different from regular sweat. It contains more fatty acids and proteins, which mix with your skin’s bacteria, creating a stronger, more pungent odor.

Unfortunately, this unpleasant aroma can affect how others perceive you, potentially making you seem less confident, capable and trustworthy. This is the last thing you want during an important meeting, presentation or first date.

How to Relax Away Stress Sweat

Managing stress is the best way to beat this stinky perspiration. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, try incorporating these simple relaxation techniques into your routine:

Deep breathing exercises
Mindfulness meditations
Gentle stretching
Light exercise, like yoga or walking

Learn more: How to Stop Nervous Sweating: 6 Easy Ways

#7 Consider Medical & Professional Solutions

Note: This is not medical advice. Please consult with your doctor.

If you’ve tried these over-the-counter products and lifestyle changes without success, you may want to consider more heavy-duty solutions. The following medical treatments may provide long-lasting relief for those with severe cases of hyperhidrosis:

Prescription-strength antiperspirants – As we mentioned earlier, some antiperspirants are prescription-strength. These products contain higher concentrations of aluminum chloride than over-the-counter options.
Botox injections – Botox isn’t just for cosmetic purposes — it can also temporarily block the sweat glands in your armpits. Research shows that this treatment can reduce underarm moisture by 82% to 87% for up to three to 12 months. What’s more, many people report significant improvements after just one treatment.
Iontophoresis – Iontophoresis is an electrotherapy treatment that reduces sweat production. Its success rate ranges from 70% to 90%, depending on what type of hyperhidrosis you have.