Struggling with Facial and Scalp Sweat? Managing Facial and Scalp Hyperhidrosis

Modern medicine classifies excessive sweat localized to the face and scalp as focal hyperhidrosis, specifically facial hyperhidrosis or scalp hyperhidrosis. Interpreting the concepts of upper jiao heat and stomach heat from the Donguibogam through a modern lens shows close links to the autonomic nervous system, particularly the overactivation of sympathetic nerves. The sympathetic nerve governs the body's fight-or-flight response. When sympathetic nerves become excessively active due to stress, anxiety, tension, or underlying conditions, they stimulate the sweat glands, especially eccrine sweat glands, to increase perspiration. The face and scalp have a higher density of sweat glands than other areas and respond sensitively to external stimuli, making localized sweating more noticeable. In addition, endocrine diseases such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes, as well as medications such as antidepressants and antihypertensives, can contribute to hyperhidrosis by causing hormonal imbalance or dysregulation of the nervous system. In menopausal women, facial hyperhidrosis often accompanies hot flashes caused by hormonal shifts. Excessive sweating also affects the skin. Sweat can weaken skin barrier function, and a persistently humid environment encourages bacteria and fungi to multiply, predisposing the skin to acne, folliculitis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Scalp hyperhidrosis can clog pores, provoke inflammation, and disrupt the moisture balance of the scalp, potentially triggering or worsening alopecia. Because facial and scalp hyperhidrosis causes physical discomfort and affects daily routines, thoughtful management is beneficial.