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WHY YOUR PRE-GAME ROUTINE MATTERS
A solid routine is not only for preparing your body but also your mind. When you take a few minutes to reset and stick to easy, repeatable steps, you calm your nerves, manage stress sweat, and feel more in control. Adrenaline can ramp things up fast, but prepping your skin and body helps you stay one step ahead.
Step 1: Shower Right
The goal is to get clean without drying out your skin. A warm shower opens your pores and helps wash away sweat and buildup. Skip the hot water as it can damage your skin and leave it dry. If you’re still using harsh soaps, it’s time for a change. Swap them for a mild or plant-based body wash.
“Mild cleansers, when properly formulated, can wash away dirt and grease while ensuring minimal or no interaction of skin’s own proteins and oils,” explains Unilever R&D Manager Bivash Dasgupta. This is why a quality body wash will work with your skin, not against it, leaving it clean and moisturized.
Shampooing your hair can happen every other day, especially if you have dry hair, while using a conditioner regularly will help with softness and strength.
Step 2: Exfoliate Like a Pro
Exfoliation clears away dead skin, leaving your face and body feeling smooth and refreshed. Use a gentle face scrub and body wash or one product that’s gentle enough for both areas. Keep it light, no need to scrub hard, and exfoliating twice a week is plenty.
Step 3: Shave
Now that your pores have opened up with the steam, use a moisturizing shave cream to help your razor glide easily. Rinse off with warm water and follow up with a soothing balm to calm redness and sensitivity. Wait a few minutes to let it absorb.
Step 4: Lock in Hydration
Moisturize your skin with a lightweight, non-greasy face lotion to lock in hydration without the shine. Some come with a built-in SPF (essential when you’re outdoors at the game).
Step 5: Keep Things Fresh
Apply antiperspirant to dry underarm skin to lock in long-lasting sweat and odor protection for your game day.
Pro tip: Pack a travel-size antiperspirant in your bag or go for a whole-body deodorant if you want coverage all over.
THE LOW-DOWN ON ANTIPERSPIRANTS
When it comes to staying dry and fresh, knowing your options is key. From everyday use to game-day sweat protection, the right antiperspirant will keep you covered.
But is it bad to use antiperspirant every day? The short answer is no. Questions about antiperspirant safety question tend to come up often, but daily antiperspirant use is generally safe and works effectively for most people.
"Long-term use of antiperspirants is safe when used as directed, and they even begin to work better the more you use them," explains R&D Manager at Unilever, Jamie Regan.
Choosing your protection
Selecting the right product depends on how active your day is and how much sweat defense you need. Here’s a quick guide:
- Deodorant (non-antiperspirant): Ideal for non-game days with low activity or when fragrance is your main goal. A deodorant’s job is to mask odor, but it can't stop sweat.
- Regular antiperspirant: Provides 48-hour protection to keep you dry and comfortable.
- Clinical-strength antiperspirant: Made for heavy sweating or high-pressure moments like game day. It uses a higher concentration of active ingredients to provide maximum protection, and some of these products can work up to 96 hours. But being powerful doesn’t mean harsh. Dove Men+Care clinicals are non-irritating, dermatologist-tested and paraben-free.
Applying for best results
Get the most out of your antiperspirant by following these 3 simple steps:
1. Dry your underarms thoroughly after your shower.
2. Apply a thin, even layer of antiperspirant.
3. Allow the product to dry completely before dressing.
Pro tip: Apply at night. Sweat glands are less active while you sleep, giving the product time to absorb fully and work harder the next day.
FAQs
Why do I sweat more before a big event?
When you’re gearing up for something big, your body releases adrenaline. That triggers “stress sweat,” which comes from different glands than your usual sweat. It’s a bit richer, so when it mixes with bacteria on your skin, the smell can be stronger.
Does having a routine reduce stress sweating?
Yes. Sticking to a routine helps your mind feel calmer. When you’re less stressed, your body produces less adrenaline, and this means less stress sweating.
What’s the best deodorant for game day?
It depends on what you need. If odor is your main concern, a good deodorant will do the job. If you’re expecting some nerves or want to stay dry under pressure, go with an antiperspirant. Daily antiperspirant use has been shown to be safe.
Should I apply antiperspirant in the morning or at night?
While many people apply antiperspirant in the morning, applying it at night is more effective. It gives the ingredients time to settle and start working while your body is at rest and you’re sweating less.
From shower prep to sweat and odor defense, building a daily routine with consistent steps adds up to confidence you can count on. Taking care of yourself also reduces stress and gets you mentally ready to perform, whether on the field, at work, or in social situations. When your self-care habits are solid, showing up prepared becomes second nature. Be game-day ready, every day.
