How does prescription antiperspirant work?

Aluminium chloride combines with moisture in the sweat duct and creates a temporary blockage near the surface. Sweat production does not stop throughout the whole body; the treated area receives less moisture while the product is being used. It may help underarm sweating, sweaty feet, or other localised excessive sweating. Reducing moisture can also make odour and skin friction easier to manage, although it does not treat every cause of body odour or rash.

Apply it exactly as prescribed, commonly to completely dry skin at the time advised by your clinician, then wash the area as directed. Do not apply immediately after shaving, to broken skin, or over an active rash unless specifically told to do so. Stinging, redness, dryness, or irritation can occur; a clinician may adjust the schedule or recommend a bland moisturiser. Keep the product away from eyes and mucous membranes.

Stop and contact your prescriber if burning, swelling, blistering, or a rash becomes marked or continues after washing the area. Seek assessment for sweating that starts suddenly, occurs during sleep, or affects the whole body, particularly with fever, weight change, faintness, chest symptoms, or new medicines. Persistent foot moisture with pits, odour, or soreness may need separate treatment.

Ask which areas can be treated, when to apply the solution, how to handle irritation, whether another condition is contributing to sweating, and what option comes next if the response is insufficient.