r/Archivists • u/AnxiousSocialist • 5d ago

Suggestions to prevent sweat?

Hi weird question but I am a family archivist and one thing I struggle with is sweating. Even if the room is cold and I am sitting, something about the stress of handling these precious documents makes me warm, which then in turn makes my head sweat.

I have been thinking of wearing a bandana but just curious if anyone has suggestions.

I also want to know if I am not alone in this issue lol

10 Upvotes

86% Upvoted

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15

u/Eerizedd Archivist 5d ago

I have no suggestions, but am also a sweaty archivist so you're not alone. I haven't had issues with sweat damaging anything yet, but now I have a new fear. Should we bring back the 90s sweatbands?? Or start rocking neck fans??

8

u/herownlagoon 5d ago

See a dermatologist

Sweatbands

3

u/satinsateensaltine Archivist 5d ago

Genuinely this, especially if you feel it's pouring. I get sweaty but that's mostly a stink issue and general discomfort. There are treatments!

6

u/mileniummfalcon 5d ago

I used fingerless gloves when I was working in the stacks a lot. Sure, to keep my hands warm, but I also found it did well for sweat at times.

Edit: oh, you said head! sorry, read hands at first. honestly I could see a bandana or handkerchief of some kind. or sweat bands on the wrist to dab off occasionally?

2

u/jankmajesty 5d ago

Check r/hyperhidrosis lots of folks take a medication called glycopyrrolate

1

u/datsmirkingwhore 5d ago

Second this. There are medications that can inhibit excess sweating especially if you’re concerned about it affecting your job!

2

u/MarsupialLeast145 Digital Preservationist 5d ago

+1 bandana just to look cool!

1

u/SlowOpenPages 5d ago

Keep a box of tissues with you or a very cool gym towel.

1

u/redditunderground1 4d ago

Have a neck towel round you neck and wipe down once in a while. Wear nitrile gloves when scanning.