How long does prescription antiperspirant take to work for sweaty feet?

Plantar hyperhidrosis means the soles produce more sweat than is comfortable or practical. Prescription antiperspirant temporarily limits sweat reaching the skin surface. You may notice drier feet before you notice changes in slipping, odour or the need to change socks. Heat, exercise, stress, footwear and application technique can all affect the result.

Apply the prescribed antiperspirant only as directed, commonly to clean, dry soles when sweating is lowest. Allow it to dry and follow the instructions about washing. Wear breathable socks, rotate shoes and dry footwear thoroughly between uses. Do not apply more often than prescribed, and avoid broken or freshly irritated skin. If you need treatment details, see [Prescription Antiperspirant](/treatments/medical-dermatology/prescription-antiperspirant/).

Tell your clinician about persistent burning, itching, rash, swelling or painful cracks. Seek a review if sweating does not improve after the planned trial, suddenly becomes much worse, or is accompanied by other new symptoms. Your clinician can check the diagnosis, medicines and whether another treatment is more suitable.

Ask when to apply the product, how long to leave it on, and what to do if your soles become irritated. Ask when to judge the response and whether maintenance applications will be needed after sweating is controlled.