Certain Dri’s Medical Advisory Board Offers Tips for Staying Dry This Winter

With cooler temperatures fast approaching, the uncomfortable feeling and worry about perspiration is a thing of the past for many men and women; however, this isn’t the case for the millions of you who suffer from excessive perspiration, also known as hyperhidrosis.

Even in cooler temperatures, sweating can be an issue. In fact, according to two national surveys conducted for Certain Dri (www.certaindri.com):

• Forty-five percent of U.S. adults* – which translates to almost 110 million people – report that perspiration is either “sometimes” or “often” a problem for them and 25 percent of these respondents indicated their perspiration “is the same regardless of season”
• Thirty percent of U.S. adults** – which translates to more than 70 million people nationwide – admit to suffering from problematic foot sweat and three-quarters of this group also battle foot odor. What’s more 13 percent of these respondents also indicated that their feet always feel excessively sweaty, regardless of the season

As you know, during the cooler months, excessive perspiration is not only brought on by warm indoor temperatures and heavier clothing but also by stress and even every day tasks.

Contrary to popular belief, people do not sweat less in cooler weather months. Our bodies still lose up to a quart of fluid a day, but it’s more noticeable. Someone with excessive perspiration, or hyperhidrosis, as it’s called, will perspire even more, no matter what season it is.

Not to worry, below Dr. David Bank, medical advisor to Certain Dri, offers these tips on how to feel and stay dry during the cooler months while wearing the latest fashions:

• Curb the waterworks…while you sleep: Look for Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant Roll-On with 12 percent aluminum chloride, which is the same active ingredient in prescription-strength antiperspirants, but in a gentler, non-alcohol formula. Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant is clinically tested and dermatologist-recommended as the most effective solution for excessive underarm perspiration, as well as for occasional, excessive perspiration due to stress, heat, sports, occupation, etc. Now available in a SOLID application.
• Layer Up: If you are still concerned that you might develop noticeable sweaty pits or if you experience back sweat from time to time, consider wearing a form fitting undershirt or tank top made of a fabric that wicks away perspiration from the body. This will leave you feeling dry and worry free all day.
• Chill Out: Consider relaxation techniques, such as yoga. This can help to control the stress that can also trigger perspiration. “Many times people who suffer from excessive perspiration also worry about it so much that they create a spiral effect. Suffering from excessive perspiration can be a debilitating condition on an emotional, social and functional level,” says Dr. Bank
• Stomp Out Sweat and Odor: To help keep your feet dry during the day, apply new Certain Dri Feet Moisture Control Pads to your feet at night. Formulated with 12 percent aluminum chloride and approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, your feet will feel dry an fresh all day. For added protection and to combat foot odor sprinkle new Certain Dri Feet Microsponge Powder on your feet each morning. The powder contains the patented Microsponge Delivery System that is triggered into action with heat, friction or moisture to release five odor fighting ingredients that provide several levels of odor defense.
• Eat and Drink Right: Keep in mind certain foods and beverages can exacerbate an excessive perspiration problem and also cause increased body odor, such as drinks that contain caffeine or foods that contain high amounts of garlic or onions.

If over-the-counter options don’t solve the issue of excessive sweating for you personally, you should speak to a dermatologist or other health professional about a stronger prescription antiperspirant or other options available.

Please be sure to check out the latest “in the news” postings. Or become one of our fans on facebook.

**This information is for information purposes only and should not be construed as a personal medical diagnosis or formal medical advice by a physician.**

If lunchtime is the only time you can fit in a regular workout, there are several simple things that you can do to cool down so you don’t return to your desk too sweaty.

On the night before your workout apply Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant to your underarms before you go to bed. Your pores will absorb it at night and a morning shower won’t diminish its action. Sold over-the-counter, Certain Dri Antiperspirant contains 12 percent aluminum chloride, the most effective active ingredient used in prescription antiperspirants. Yet, Certain Dri Antiperspirant is water-based (vs. alcohol-based as in prescription antiperspirants), gentler on the skin and available without a doctor’s prescription.

Here are few other things you can do to combat noticeable sweat and body odor after some lunchtime exercise:

• Cool Down period of workout – time may be short during your lunch hour workout, but it’s important to account for the cool down period. This gives the body a chance to “throw off” some heat before getting into the shower or before you get back to the office.
• Cool Your Core - Drink cool water or some other beverage as it’s the body’s internal temperature that you are trying to cool.
• Cool Shower –Taking a cool shower after your workout will help cool your body temperature down quick and wash away odor causing perspiration.
• Cool Your Soles: According to the new Certain Dri Feet survey*, 30 percent of U.S. adults admit to suffering from problematic foot sweat and odor. A lunchtime workout can only exasperate this problem. Certain Dri recently took perspiration control one step further, literally, and introduced new Certain Dri Feet Moisture Control Pads, which are recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association, and Certain Dri Microsponge Powder, with a patented Microsponge® Delivery System that is triggered into action with heat, friction or moisture to release five odor fighting ingredients all day long. The two new products can be used together to offer maximized  results in controlling excessive foot perspiration and odor, helping to maintain a feeling of fresh, dry feet all day.
• Back up System – And for those who want added odor protection apply your favorite daily deodorant after you shower.

If over-the-counter options don’t solve the issue of excessive sweating/odor of the underarms or feet, speak to a dermatologist, podiatrist or other health professional about a stronger prescription antiperspirant or other options available.

Please be sure to check out the latest “in the news” postings. We are also excited to announce that Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant was recommended by dermatologist Dr. Jeanine Downie in a “Solving Summer Skin Issues” segment on Today Show on July 9, 2008.

**This information is for information purposes only and should not be construed as a personal medical diagnosis or formal medical advice by a physician.**

We may make it a priority to work out and stay active to keep our bodies in shape, but, as a result, our feet are often neglected, even, shall we say it, used and abused. Have you looked at them lately? We mean really looked.

Whether you are making a new attempt at exercise or are an avid athlete, we’ve put together a list of some of the more common feet issues experienced and offer some helpful solutions:

• Athlete’s Foot (and Fungus!): Hey girls, listen up! It’s not just a problem for guys! According to a new national survey** conducted for Certain Dri Feet, 30% of U.S. adults (both genders) admit to suffering from problematic foot sweat and 28% of these respondents say they’ve experienced athletes foot as a result…see the correlation! Most of the socks or sneakers we wear don’t typically allow foot perspiration to evaporate naturally. The warm, moist environment then encourages the growth of bacteria and fungi, leading contributors to Athlete’s Foot and toenail fungus. In addition to alternating your workout shoes (do your feet a favor and get two pairs to trade off with every other day), avoid athlete’s foot by controlling excessive foot sweat with new Certain Dri Feet Moisture Control Pads, formulated with 12 percent aluminum chloride the ingredient recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association for controlling foot moisture.

• Calluses: Anyone who’s had really tough skin on their feet knows that things like pumice stones and scrubs don’t really have much of an impact. Girls, how many times have you left the salon after getting a professional pedicure and realized that pumice stones really did nothing for your heels? We don’t recommend turning to tools that utilize cutting instruments, like razor blades, at home. Instead, you might want to try Microplane® Foot Files, which utilize tiny, bi-directional files – made from a patented photo-etching process into metal – to easily remove dry skin and tough calluses on the feet gently, effectively and, most importantly, safely.

• Too Much Pressure: Makes sense…the less you weigh, the less pressure on the feet. It is just a matter of gravity. Keep in mind that every time you take a step, you put the pressure of more than double your body weight on that foot, so the more you weigh, the higher the pressure. Shedding even 10 pounds can make a difference on foot problems and taking it easy until you do is important, as well.

• Stinky Feet: The Certain Dri Feet survey also found that 22% of U.S. adults admit to problematic foot odor. Foot odor caused by excessive sweating of the feet can be embarrassing and bothersome. It’s important to wash your feet each day after your workout. However, for extra protection from foot odor, try new Certain Dri Feet Microsponge Powder…it is even featured in this month’s Cosmo magazine! Certain Dri Feet Microsponge Powder contains the patented Microsponge Delivery System that is triggered into action with heat, friction or moisture to release five odor fighting ingredients that all work continuously throughout the day to keep feet fresh.

**This information is for information purposes only and should not be construed as a personal medical diagnosis or formal medical advice by a physician.**

Certain Dri was recently mentioned in the section “Ask the Girl Next Door” a Men’s Health staple. The section is both in print and online. The mention of the Certain Dri antiperspirant product was in the answer to a question asked about what is the best antiperspirant? Experts from the Miami Miller’s school of medicine answered that Certain Dri was their recommendation.

InStyle Weddings Magazine recommends Certain Dri antiperspirant as part of their top 25 bridal beauty secrets. They tell their readers that using the product will help them control their perspiration so they “Don’t Sweat” the big day.

So we received some very exciting news for Certain Dri underarm anti-perspirant. In the May 6th Mayo Clinic newsletter (yes, that famed Mayo Clinic!), Certain Dri was recommended as an over-the-counter treatment option to help control excessive perspiration. Well, of course WE know how great it is, but when you have such a prestigious place highlighting it as well, it surely makes us feel great….

So, we are going to toot our own horn a bit….click here to read their news brief.

To read more about Certain Dri, tips for controlling excessive sweating and much more, visit us at www.certiandri.com

Antiperspirant vs. Deodorant; Which One is Right For You?

It’s true, our bodies are naturally programmed to perspire – in some cases up to a quart a day – but what comes naturally isn’t always desirable, especially if it causes body odor or leaves unsightly underarm stains on your clothes. Yet, as you reach for an antiperspirant or deodorant, do you really know how each one works and what is right for you? Though they have different modes of action, they are often grouped together in the aisles of your drug store, so here’s a little “antiperspirant/deodorant 101″ for you.

The main difference: antiperspirants help curb your perspiration, while deodorants help get rid of odor by masking the smell with a fragrance (some even contain antibacterial agents to help control the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the skin). Our medical experts tell us that you’d be surprised by how many people come to them with perspiration issues that they can’t control with the product they are using, only to find out that they are using a deodorant vs. an antiperspirant!

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Antiperspirant, the sweat blocker: Antiperspirants are the choice for controlling underarm wetness, since the most common active ingredients, aluminum compounds, block the pores to inhibit the release of sweat and help absorb odor-causing moisture. Most over the counter antiperspirants contain aluminum zirconium. However, for people who suffer from axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating), there is something more effective available – Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant, which contains 12% aluminum chloride, the strongest over-the-counter antiperspirant ingredient preferred by dermatologists to treat excessive perspiration. Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant® should be used sparingly, only a few times per week, at bedtime, to control excessive perspiration (use as directed).

Deodorant, the odor absorber: Deodorants cover up odor through a variety of fragrances and masking substances. Some also contain an antibacterial agent, such as triclosan, to prevent the release of odor by fighting bacteria growth that results from perspiration. Deodorants are best for stopping that sweaty smell, but won’t stop the perspiration, itself. Deodorant, alone, is best for those people who do not have a problem with excessive sweating, yet want to feel fresh and odor free. Deodorants can provide an adequate level of day-to-day protection for someone with little to mild perspiration. If you use Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant for controlling excessive sweating, but want added odor protection, look for Certain Dri A.M.TM Underarm Refresher, available in a new scented stick or roll-on application for morning use.

**This information is for information purposes only and should not be construed as a personal medical diagnosis or formal medical advice by a physician.**

With so many options available in the drug store for antiperspirants, deodorants and combinations of both, my patients with sweating issues often come to me very confused. One of the most recent questions I’ve been getting is “What’s the deal with these antiperspirants that call themselves ‘clinical strength’ and do you recommend them?” So, I think this topic deserves a little attention.

With new antiperspirant products for both men and women making similar “clinical strength” claims, it’s hard for anybody who suffers from excessive perspiration to know what antiperspirant product is best for them.

What most people don’t realize is that many of these “clinical strength” products contain the active ingredient aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex GLY, which is what may be the least effective form of aluminum salt for controlling excessive perspiration. You are instructed to put it on at night before bedtime, but any antiperspirant would be more effective if applied at night before going to sleep, since your underarm sweat glands are at rest and the antiperspirant can be more effectively penetrated.

The most recommended aluminum salt by dermatologists for treating excessive perspiration is aluminum chloride.

Okay, yes, I’m on the Certain Dri blog, so it should be obvious that I recommend this product over the other brands at the drug store, but my reason is medically driven….Certain Dri Antiperspirant Roll-On contains 12% aluminum chloride, the strongest over-the-counter ingredient preferred by dermatologists to treat excessive perspiration. Unlike its prescription counterparts, Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant is formulated with water (not alcohol), helping to minimize drying and stinging of the skin, and allowing it to be available without a prescription. For some sensitive people, this formula may still create some itching and irritation in the underarms, however, this usually will pass (if it doesn’t, you should discontinue use and ask your doctor about an alternative). Frankly, this usually will not occur if you follow the directions on the box carefully (which are: use Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant sparingly, only a few times per week, at bedtime and definitely NOT after shaving the underarms).

What it comes down to is that I’m not really sure what “clinical strength” actually means, since the formulas with this moniker don’t seem very different than their “regular” strength version. In most cases, Certain Dri, which has been recommended by doctors for more than 30 years, is a great first line of defense for excessive sweating and is what it claims to be – the closest to the prescription formula that dermatologists have been recommending successfully to patients for years.

One note, since I need to be a responsible physician…while Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant products are highly effective in treating excessive perspiration for most people, please make an appointment with a healthcare provider if you suddenly begin to experience profuse perspiration without any history of it previously, since it can be related to an underlying medical condition that will need to be treated. Also, if over-the-counter options don’t solve the issue of excessive perspiration for you personally, you should speak to your dermatologist or other health professional about a stronger prescription antiperspirant or other medical procedures/options now available.

Meet Our Experts

We are pleased to introduce our panel of blog experts to assist this community in its sweat-related issues and concerns. These medical experts are highly recognized authorities on “excessive sweating” and are excited to be part of our conversations, imparting their own medical expertise and anecdotal information.

Dr. David Bank, M.D., is a board certified dermatologist with a busy practice in Mount Kisco, New York, who specializes in skin care, as well as other therapeutic areas including excessive sweating. Dr. Bank is recognized as a leader in the cosmetic surgery arena and will be applying his knowledge about techniques used to help those who suffer with excessive sweating, including over-the-counter, prescription and surgical options. Maybe you’ve seen Dr. Bank on the TODAY Show or quoted in articles in some of the top health and beauty magazines, as he is often called upon for his expertise.

Our other noted expert Dr. Oliver Zong, D.P.M., is the director of foot surgery at NYC Footcare and also co-founder of the Podiatric Cryosurgery Center. He also is often sought by media for quotes, and he has been credited with the coining of the term “foot makeover”, “foot facelift” and “high-heel feet”. He deals with many chronic foot conditions including excessive sweating and foot odor.

Both of these experts recognize excessive sweating is a major lifestyle problem for those who suffer from it and are looking forward to answering your questions and responding to your comments.

The doctors will also be offering tips and advice from time to time based on their own experiences as leaders in the field and comments they get from their own patients, so stay tuned for more of their trusted input.

At DSE Healthcare Solutions, maker of Certain Dri®, we have been hearing for years about people’s struggles with excessive perspiration, how it impacts social and professional lives, defines the types of clothes or shoes one wears…overall, how debilitating of a condition excessive perspiration (hyperhidrosis) can be. We are also proud of the thousands of letters and e-mails we get each year letting us know how our products have helped to change this all for the better.

So, on that note, we decided to create the “Make Certain You’re Dri” blog as an outlet for you to share information, even vent, about your struggles and success with stopping excessive perspiration in hopes that another person in this situation will see that it is a pretty common condition. As an FYI, we did a survey and found out that more than 45% of respondents – that’s more than 100 million U.S. adults – feel that their perspiration is a problem! (Who knew?).

Whether you feel your underarms are the issue or if you sweat each step with foot perspiration (or any other body parts in between), let us know about it.

Our medical experts are here to offer some information, tips and advice, and we would love to hear your thoughts and feelings so we can share them with our audience (you can do this anonymously).

In addition to listening to your comments and suggestions, we will be sharing any good news we have about Certain Dri, including product giveaways, media coverage, new product launches, etc.

We also encourage you to post your concerns, suggestions for future topics and other comments which can help make this blog and our Web sites (www.certaindri.com) and (www.certaindrifeet.com) excellent resources.

We hope you’ll enjoy the information we will be sharing, since we know that excessive sweating…is the pits.