Biological differences between stress sweat and heat sweat

The transition from summer to more structured routines, such as returning to work or college, can trigger an increase in stress sweat. Unlike heat-induced sweat, stress sweat is produced by a different biological mechanism.

According to Unilever R&D Manager Bivash Dasgupta, the human body utilizes two primary types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine glands are distributed across most of the body and produce watery, largely odorless sweat to regulate body temperature.

In contrast, apocrine glands are located in areas with hair follicles, such as the armpits and groin. These glands are activated by emotional responses, adrenaline, and stress rather than temperature. Apocrine sweat is oily and tends to produce a stronger odor, often peaking when individuals face increased schedule demands and psychological pressure.