You could call sweat stains a “pitfall” of summer because warmer weather means more perspiration. One of the worst aspects of being active in summer can be discovering sweat stains on some of your favorite garments. You’re only human, and sweating is natural, so don’t feel embarrassed. Here are some scientific and fashion-based tips in clothing for men to help you avoid and/or hide sweat stains.
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Tip #1. Prevent Sweaty Situations
When you sweat, your body tries to cool down and regulate its temperature. For instance, maybe you’re outside exercising in 90-degree heat with 72% humidity. Your body will react by going into sweat mode to keep your internal temperature down.
Not only do external factors like hot weather play a major role in how much you perspire, but caffeinated beverages and spicy foods can trigger the volume of sweat you produce. Avoid those iced coffees or sodas because they encourage the body to lose fluids. This amps up the amount of hydration you need.
Don’t forget a stick or roll-on, aluminum-based antiperspirant. Dermatologists advise that this is your best bet to protect against wetness and body odors because an antiperspirant is designed to block the sweat glands. The ultimate type of product that will prevent a sweaty situation is a clinical strength antiperspirant, and today, there are several high-quality types to choose from.
Tip #2. Buy Better Quality Clothes
What you wear from underwear to tees, shirts, pants and socks can all factor into the sweating you potentially produce. High-quality clothing pieces that include performance polos, for example, have been specially developed for men on the go and high-intensive activities. These are well-made durable garments that are comfortable against the skin and produced with high-tech innovations that allow the material to last wash after wash.
Quality pieces that aren’t stiff or too heavy are good options to avoid excessive sweating. Some men also invest in several t-shirts to “catch” the sweat under a dress shirt or polo. The light layers can help you avoid armpit stains.
Tip #3. Choose the Right Materials
The best fabrics and particular blends can also limit sweating and help avoid dreaded sweat stains. The sophistication in manufacturing breathable materials has come a long way, and you have excellent options, especially when it comes to choosing the perfect men’s activewear that provides confidence for easy movement and comfort. These handsome pieces include stretch performance garments in shorts, joggers, long-sleeved and short-sleeved crew neck tees, hoodies and more.
These amazing fabrics offer a smooth feeling against the skin and superb moisture-wicking technology to keep your body dry with optimal airflow for ideal movement. Look for these modern fabrics that have been carefully developed to absorb sweat, so it doesn’t stick to the body. A breathable and moisture-wicking four-way stretch fabric blend of recycled polyester and spandex is a fine example of fabric built to perform.
Tip #4. Handle Sweatiness With Grace
Look at it this way; human beings sweat, and every individual on the planet has between 2 million and 5 million sweat glands spread across their body. Sweat has a purpose, and it’s a good sign that you’re putting your body through its paces.
Even superstar athletes like Tom Brady are used to it: “All I do is work out, oh my God! Half my life is spent in a gym somewhere, sweating.”
Sweat will happen, but don’t let it define you. You’ve seen it on celebrities at public events. No big deal — it’s not the end of the world. Arm yourself with a great antiperspirant, and apply it at night for added strength.
Tip #5. Choose the Right Colors
Fashion experts have advice for concealing a sweating issue and/or a pit stain. A bold shirt pattern like camouflage is one idea, as the design can break up the visual field.
Another solution is to choose shirts or tops in solid, darker colors such as black crew neck tees. These are good at hiding stains and comfy in a super-soft proprietary cotton-poly fabric. Shades like brown, navy blue and white are also sweat concealers. A gray t-shirt would only highlight armpit sweating, and the same goes for any bright solid colors.
Tip #6. Shop for a Looser Fit
One thing that makes fashion fantastic is that there are so many cuts, fabrics and styles to choose from. Not everything has to fit tightly against the body. Look for a tee with loose armholes, for instance.
Shop for clothing with a looser fit such as joggers that give your legs plenty of room to move in breathable materials. Underwear has also advanced in high-tech fabrication because the groin can also be a problem area for sweating. Consider moisture-wicking boxer briefs constructed of silky micro modal and stretchy spandex for a comfortable fit and feel.
Tip #7. Prevent Stains From Setting In
Martha Stewart, the iconic American lifestyle expert, recommends removing sweat stains from your favorite clothing with natural products from your cupboard, such as distilled white vinegar and baking soda. Another solution is applying a stain-releasing spot cleaner to the sweat stain.
One product Stewart cautions against is using bleach for armpit stains. Bleach reacts to sweat and leaves behind a yellowish tint.
Also, don’t allow your clothing to sit in the laundry basket for days before washing them. Take action fast; wash your clothing soon after sweating. This will stop stains from settling into your garments and prevent annoying sweat patches from forming.
Think About the Endorphins and Smile
Sometimes, sweat is going to happen, but look on the bright side. Sweating has benefits, and one of them is the release of endorphins. Perspiration releases endorphins in the brain, and this makes people feel good.
Enjoy your summer, and stay active!
