Contents
- What is plantar hyperhidrosis?
- How do I know if my child has hyperhidrosis?
- Most common causes in childhood
- Does hyperhidrosis have treatment?
- Does hyperhidrosis go away with time?
At Conguitos, we know that every child is unique and so are their feet. Some sweat more than others, especially during warmer seasons, when playing nonstop, or when wearing closed shoes for many hours. But when sweating becomes very abundant, constant, and uncomfortable, we might be dealing with plantar hyperhidrosis: excessive sweating in the feet.
Although many families think it's “an adult issue,” hyperhidrosis can also appear during childhood and adolescence, especially between the ages of 7 and 10, and later during puberty due to hormonal changes. There are even cases in younger children, although it most commonly begins between the ages of 14 and 25.
If you think your child might have hyperhidrosis, here we explain clearly and simply what it is, how to recognize it, and what you can do at home to help improve it.
What is plantar hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is a condition in which the body produces much more sweat than necessary, even at rest or without heat. In children, when it appears, it mainly affects the hands and the soles of the feet, in about 89% of cases.
Excessive sweating in the feet can cause:
- Wet footprints on the floor
- Socks that become soaked
- Bad odor (bromhidrosis)
- Irritated, macerated, or cracked skin
- A tendency to infections such as fungus or dermatitis
It’s not always an illness: during many stages of growth, sweating more than usual can be temporary, especially in childhood and puberty.
How do I know if my child has hyperhidrosis?
Some clear signs include:
- Visible, excessive sweat even without heat
- Feet that are constantly cold and damp
- Skin irritation or lesions from continuous moisture
- Shoes becoming wet within minutes of wearing them
- Persistent bad odor
- Sweating that interferes with daily life (slipping, discomfort, embarrassment…)
Specialists explain that diagnosis is usually clinical based on observing symptoms and checking whether sweating is excessive, bilateral, and appears during the day (not at night).
Most common causes in childhood
Primary hyperhidrosis
No clear medical cause; often hereditary and begins in childhood or adolescence.
Secondary hyperhidrosis
Linked to factors such as infections, hormones, stress, medication, or specific medical conditions.
Does hyperhidrosis have treatment?
The good news is that hyperhidrosis can be treated—and treatment often works very well. In children, it can be managed effectively, and in many cases, it improves with age.
Specific antiperspirants
Products containing aluminum chloride are a first-line option for hands and feet, always following pediatric guidance.
Hygiene and daily care
- Wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes
- Avoid synthetic socks; choose cotton or bamboo instead
- Change socks if they become damp
- Choose breathable and flexible footwear
Proper footwear
Closed, non-breathable shoes increase sweating. Soft, ventilated materials reduce discomfort significantly.
Consult a specialist
If sweating is very intense, causes infections, or affects self-esteem, a dermatologist may recommend additional treatments.
Does hyperhidrosis go away with time?
For many children, hyperhidrosis improves as they grow. For others, it may continue into adolescence, but with proper care its impact can be greatly reduced.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is more common than it seems, but with good habits, proper materials, and breathable footwear, your little one can feel much more comfortable. At Conguitos, we design shoes made for every stage: lightweight, breathable, and ready to keep up with their pace without slips or discomfort!
