Why Does My Back Sweat So Much? And What Can I Do About It?
First things first, it’s important to know that back sweat is a natural response to heat or hot weather. When you get hot, your body releases sweat to help you cool down. So, when you’re pushing for your next PB in the gym or squashed onto the commuter train on the way to work, back sweat is totally normal.
But what if your back is getting super sweaty in a cool environment when you’re not doing a whole lot? This could be a sign of excessive sweating. It’s usually nothing to worry about. But it’s only natural to want to find out what is causing it and how to stop back sweat from affecting your confidence.
That’s why we’ve written this article on how to stop back sweat, so you can confidently move and do what you love, always. Let’s get into it!
It’s important to know a sweaty back is a natural response to an increase in temperature.
What causes excessive back sweating?
Back sweat is pretty common, especially when you’re in a hot environment or have been exercising – it's your body’s way of cooling itself down. But what if your back is sweating while it’s cold or you’re relaxing? It could be down to something else...
Stress and anxiety
Is sweating a symptom of anxiety? Yes, it can be.
When we’re feeling stressed out or anxious, our bodies release stress hormones called cortisol and epinephrine (adrenaline). The sympathetic nervous system is also triggered, which sets off our flight-or-fight response. Our bodies think we’re in danger (even if we’re not). This can make our backs sweat more than usual, as our bodies are preparing to cool us down while we’re running away or fighting.¹
Hormonal changes
Going through puberty, pregnancy, and menopause sends our hormones into a spin, which can result in more back sweat than we’re used to.
Why do I keep waking up with a sweaty back?
Back sweat caused by hormonal changes can show up as night sweats during pregnancy or hot flushes during perimenopause and menopause.
6 ways to help deal with back sweat
Here’s some ideas on how to reduce back sweat and stop it from affecting your day.
1. Stay cool
Try to avoid overheating as much as possible. Choose shaded areas when it’s hot out and plan your outfits to suit your environment. Spending a hot day with wet, heavy fabrics clinging to your back = a big confidence killer.
2. Wear breathable or sweat-wicking fabrics
Choose breathable, natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk as much as possible to stay cooler during the day. For workout clothes, go for sweat-wicking fabrics like polyester blends.
3. Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of cool water. This helps lower your body temperature and replace some of the water lost through sweating.
4. Avoid certain foods and drinks
Some foods can cause you to break a sweat. Avoid potential back sweat triggers, like spicy food, caffeine, and alcohol.
5. Shower every day
Wash with antibacterial soap, paying special attention to your back area to keep any odor-causing bacteria away. Can’t reach? Try a long-handled body loofah.
6. Reduce stress
We know it’s tough but try to get a handle on your stress if you think that’s contributing to your back sweat. Learn more about how to do that in our article on stress sweat.
There you go. You’ve uncovered the reasons why your back may sweat so much and what you can do about it. Now you have the power to change and feel confident in whatever you are doing. Whether it’s smashing your 10k record, lifting heavier, or getting that new yoga pose down – back sweat won’t hold you back.
References:
- Harker M. Psychological sweating: a systematic review focused on aetiology and cutaneous response. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology. 2013.
