Prosthetic Antiperspirant - A Primer
If you want to stop sweat, you need an antiperspirant. Here's how to find the best type for you & your skin care routine.
WHAT IS IT?
Antiperspirants are designed to reduce and prevent perspiration on the surface of the skin. Some antiperspirants are specifically manufactured for amputees, designed for use on your limb and to prevent sweat build-up inside your socket. Antiperspirants work by temporarily blocking sweat ducts with aluminum compounds, which reduces perspiration and, to some extent, the odor that often goes with it.
WHAT ARE THE INGREDIENTS?
Aluminum is the key ingredient in antiperspirants; in products made especially for amputees, the aluminum content is sometimes doubled. (All natural products typically do not contain aluminum and are primarily used to deodorize.) An antiperspirant stops perspiration, but it may or may not include ingredients for deodorizing.
WHAT TYPE IS BEST FOR ME?
Antiperspirants are typically spray-on or roll-on, but powders, glides, lotions, creams, and wipes are also an option. It's common to combine treatments in order to better manage your sweat. There are also medicated products to help control perspiration, like combination antiperspirant and antibacterial creams, or a cream like Betamethafone that requires a prescription. Whichever type of antiperspirant you choose, be sure to go with a product that's fragrance free, which will be better for the sensitive skin of your limb.
HOW DO I USE IT?
Since sweat control is essential to both socket hygiene and your comfort, antiperspirant should be a mainstay of your daily skin care routine. Make sure your limb is clean and completely dry before you apply an antiperspirant to your skin. If applying a powder, make sure to rub gently.
