Excessive sweating can be difficult to manage when your usual antiperspirant is no longer enough. Driclor offers a stronger approach, but applying it incorrectly can leave your skin itchy, sore or irritated.
Knowing how Driclor works and following the correct application routine can help you manage excessive sweating while reducing the risk of skin reactions. Here's what to know before using it on your underarms, hands or feet.
What Is Driclor and How Does It Work?
Driclor is a clinical-strength antiperspirant used to manage excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), particularly when regular antiperspirants do not provide enough relief. It contains 20% aluminium chloride hexahydrate, an active ingredient that helps reduce sweating in the treated area.
When applied to the skin, aluminium chloride forms temporary plugs within the sweat ducts, reducing the amount of sweat that reaches the surface. This effect is not permanent, so repeat applications are needed to maintain sweating control.
Unlike deodorants, which primarily help mask body odour, antiperspirants reduce sweating itself. Driclor is designed for people who need additional control over excessive sweating.
It can be used on areas commonly affected by excessive sweating, including the underarms, palms and soles of the feet. If regular antiperspirants have not helped, a pharmacist can advise whether Driclor is an appropriate option.
How to Apply Driclor Correctly at Night
Driclor should be applied at night, when sweating is generally less active. Applying it to completely dry skin and following the correct routine helps reduce the risk of irritation.
Follow these steps:
1. Start with clean, dry skin
Ensure the affected area is clean and completely dry before application. Do not apply Driclor immediately after bathing or washing while the skin is still damp.
2. Apply Driclor to the affected area
Use the roll-on applicator to apply the solution directly to the areas where you experience excessive sweating. Apply only enough to cover the affected skin.
3. Let the solution dry
Allow Driclor to dry completely before getting dressed or going to bed. Avoid direct contact with clothing, jewellery and polished metal surfaces, as the solution may cause staining or discolouration.
4. Wash it off the following morning
Wash the treated area with water the next morning and dry it gently. There is no need to reapply Driclor during the day.
Always read the patient information leaflet before use. Do not apply Driclor to skin that has been shaved within the previous 12 hours. Avoid using hair-removal products on treated areas for 12 hours before or after application.
Why Does Driclor Cause Skin Irritation and How Can You Prevent It?
Itching, stinging, redness and a burning sensation are recognised side effects of Driclor. Its active ingredient, aluminium chloride hexahydrate, can cause local skin irritation, particularly when applied to damp, sensitive or recently shaved skin.
You can reduce the risk of these reactions by avoiding common application mistakes:
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Applying it to damp skin: Moisture can increase the likelihood of stinging and burning, making it important to ensure the skin is completely dry before application.
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Using it after shaving: Shaving can leave tiny cuts and make the skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of irritation.
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Applying too much product: Use only enough to cover the affected area. Applying more than recommended can increase irritation.
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Using it on damaged skin: Avoid applying Driclor to cuts, grazes, rashes or already irritated areas.
If irritation develops, stop using Driclor and allow your skin to recover. If you experience persistent redness, swelling, significant burning or a rash, speak to a pharmacist or GP before using it again.
Can You Use Driclor on Your Underarms, Hands and Feet?
Driclor is intended for excessive sweating affecting three main areas: the underarms, palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Each area can be treated using the roll-on applicator, following the product instructions.
Underarms
Apply Driclor to the affected underarm skin, taking care to avoid sensitive, recently shaved or broken areas.
Hands
For sweaty palms, apply Driclor evenly across the affected areas. Take care to avoid transferring the solution to your eyes, face or mouth.
Feet
For excessive sweating on the feet, apply Driclor evenly to the soles. Allow the solution to dry before putting on socks or footwear.
Driclor is for external use only. Avoid contact with the face, eyes, mouth and mucous membranes. Follow the product leaflet for all application precautions.
How Often Should You Use Driclor?
Driclor is initially used every night until sweating is controlled. After that, applications can be reduced to maintain the results.
Initial treatment
Apply Driclor once nightly, just before bedtime, until sweating is controlled during the day. Wash it off the following morning and do not reapply during the day.
Maintenance treatment
Once sweating is under control, reduce application to twice a week or less, depending on how well the results are maintained. You may not need to use it every night to maintain sweating control.
If excessive sweating returns, follow the product instructions for adjusting your application routine. If you are unsure how frequently to use Driclor, ask your pharmacist for advice.
Use Driclor Correctly for Better Sweating Control
Driclor can be a useful option when everyday antiperspirants do not provide enough sweating control. Using it according to the product instructions is important for managing excessive sweating while minimising the risk of skin irritation.
If you experience persistent skin reactions, stop using the product and seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.
For everyday sweating and odour protection, explore Ballyduff Pharmacy's range of deodorants and antiperspirants.