Carpe Review: Does It Deliver Sweat Relief or Just Dry Promises?

Carpe focuses on addressing excessive sweating, a common yet often overlooked issue. It offers a variety of options, whether you’re dealing with sweaty hands during a handshake or underarm perspiration that affects your day.

The brand offerings may help you manage sweat in specific areas like the hands, feet, underarms, and face. Its product lineup includes antiperspirant lotions, wipes, sprays, and a face powder that absorbs sweat.

In this review, we’ll explore the brand’s product offerings, key ingredients, customer experiences, and pricing to help you determine if Carpe is the right choice for managing excessive sweating.

We’ll also cover the advantages and limitations of Carpe, as well as compare it with some alternative brands, including their pros and cons, so that you can make an informed decision.

About Carpe

Carpe brand specializes in providing products for people suffering from excessive sweating, which is also called hyperhidrosis. Founded by David and Kasper, Carpe provides over-the-counter products that could help tackle sweat in various areas of your body. It provides clinically effective, accessible, and non-invasive products that address sweating in specific areas like the hands, feet, underarms, and even the face.

Carpe’s product lineup includes a variety of sweat-fighting options, all made for different areas of your body. Carpe’s hand lotion and foot lotion are particularly known for their non-greasy, quick-drying formulas that provide long-lasting protection against sweat. These lotions contain clinical-strength aluminum chloride, a key ingredient known for its ability to block sweat glands.

Carpe also offers an underarm lotion that provides sweat reduction in the underarm area, and a face primer with SPF 30, which is formulated to absorb sweat while offering additional sun protection.

The brand’s sweat-absorbing powders and wipes could be suitable for on-the-go use, providing quick relief when immediate action is needed. The brand claims to work alongside medical advisors, including dermatologists, to ensure the effectiveness of their products.

Products And Services Offered By Carpe

1. Carpe Underarm Stick

   Carpe’s Underarm Stick is an antiperspirant product that might reduce underarm sweating and eliminate odor. It contains Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate as its active ingredient at a concentration of 15%, which is scientifically recognized for its efficacy in blocking sweat glands. Aluminum-based compounds like Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate may work by creating a temporary plug in the sweat ducts, thereby decreasing the sweat amount that reaches the surface of the skin.

   Underarm Stick by Carpe also contains glycerin, a humectant that attracts water molecules to your skin, helping maintain moisture balance and prevent the skin from becoming too dry. Dimethicone, a silicone-based compound in this stick, could contribute to the smooth, non-greasy feel of the product and form a protective barrier on your skin’s surface, which can help lock in moisture and provide a silky texture.

   The makers also added silica and silica silylate in Carpe’s Underarm Stick for their moisture-absorbing properties, which might help keep your skin dry and minimize excess sweat by absorbing moisture from your skin’s surface.

   As per the official website, Underarm Stick by Carpe also has cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol, fatty alcohols derived from plant-based sources that act as emulsifiers to stabilize the formula and create a smooth, spreadable texture. These ingredients might help in mixing water and oil components in the formula and contribute to the product’s mildness on your skin.

   For scent, Carpe uses a blend of fragrance oils, including eucalyptus oil in some versions, which is known for its refreshing scent and mild antibacterial properties, helping to reduce odor-causing bacteria in the underarm area. However, Carpe also features a Fragrance-Free option for people with sensitive skin.

2. Head To Toe Bundle By Carpe

   Carpe’s Head-to-Toe Bundle may help address excessive perspiration and odor across multiple areas of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and underarms. The bundle includes a face lotion, hand and foot antiperspirants, and an underarm stick, each containing key active ingredients such as aluminum sesquichlorohydrate, a clinically proven antiperspirant agent.

   The face lotion in this bundle contains witch hazel, a natural astringent that might help tighten skin and reduce sweat production on the face. To complement this, ingredients like niacinamide and squalane are also added to the lotion to help soothe and hydrate your skin, ensuring it remains calm and moisturized even after application.

   The bundle by Carpe is available in a variety of appealing scents, including fresh powder, lavender citrus, sandalwood, mountain breeze, coconut vanilla, clean sport, bergamot & Oud, and cucumber spa, each providing a subtle yet lasting fragrance without irritating the skin.

   The Head-to-Toe Bundle is priced at $67.84 for a one-time purchase, or customers can opt for the subscription model, which offers a 30% discount, reducing the price to $59.36 per month. The subscription option allows for flexible delivery schedules, enabling you to adjust the frequency of your shipments or cancel at any time.

3. Hand, Foot, And Underarm Bundle

   As per the official website, Carpe’s Hand, Foot, & Underarm bundle may help address excessive sweating in three problem areas such as the hands, feet, and underarms. The bundle includes three specialized sticks, one for each area. Dermatologically tested and potentially safe for all skin types, the brand claims that its Carpe’s Hand, Foot, & Underarm bundle could be used daily, offering quick-drying, non-greasy relief from sweat. The routine works to keep users comfortable, offering long-lasting sweat control and hydration while preventing sticky residue.

4. Feminine Care Deodorant Starter Pack

   The Carpe Feminine Care Deodorant Starter Pack provides customizable personal care support. The pack includes three key items such as the Feminine Care Deodorant, the Underarm Stick, and a gift. The Feminine Care Deodorant is available in four scent options, including pure powder, tropical paradise, vanilla peach, and unscented. These deodorants contain active ingredients like baking soda or magnesium hydroxide, which may help neutralize the acids in sweat, preventing odor.

   The Underarm Stick in Carpe Feminine Care Deodorant Starter Pack is also available in various scents, including fresh powder, lavender citrus, and others like Coconut vanilla, Bergamot & Oud, etc. These scents are typically derived from essential oils, which provide pleasant fragrances and also offer additional benefits, such as lavender’s known calming and antimicrobial properties.

   The bundle also includes a free gift, offering you a choice between a Retro Tote Bag and a Toiletry Bag, both valued at $24.95. The price of the starter pack is $29.93, down from $69.80, offering a substantial discount.

5. Women Starter Pack

   According to the official website, the Women’s Starter Pack by Carpe is a specialized set of products formulated to provide both comfort and protection against moisture and odor. The pack includes four essential items, such as Women’s Groin Powder, Face Primer with SPF 30, Breast Lotion, and Underarm Stick, which may target common problem areas where sweat tends to accumulate.

   The Groin Powder in this pack is said to work by absorbing excess moisture, preventing chafing, and reducing the friction that often leads to rashes or discomfort, particularly in the sensitive skin of the groin area. This powder may help keep your skin dry and free from moisture, thus reducing the likelihood of bacterial growth that can cause odor.

   The Face Primer with SPF 30 in this Women’s Starter Pack by Carpe could help mattify your skin and absorb excess oils while offering broad-spectrum sun protection.

   This pack also features Carpe’s Breast Lotion, which might help manage sweat accumulation in the under-breast area, where moisture can cause irritation and even fungal infections if left unchecked. The Underarm Stick in this Carpe pack is made to control sweat in the underarm area, a common problem spot for excessive perspiration. This antiperspirant contains aluminum-based compounds, which might help block sweat ducts and reduce sweat production.

6. Carpe Hand Sweat Absorbing Lotion

   Carpe Hand Antiperspirant is a dermatologist-tested product specifically formulated to combat excessive sweating in your hands. When applied to the skin, this lotion could help create a temporary barrier over the sweat ducts, effectively preventing the secretion of sweat. This might help reduce the amount of moisture produced, keeping your hands dry.

   The formula is designed to be non-greasy and quick-drying, which may provide a comfortable application without leaving behind a sticky residue, making it suitable for people who need to use it during daily activities.

   The Isopropyl Alcohol included in the Hand Sweat lotion by Carpe facilitates rapid drying by evaporating quickly, ensuring that your skin doesn’t remain damp after application. Dimethicone, a silicone-based compound in this product, may also contribute to the smooth texture of the product, allowing for a uniform and comfortable application.

7. Carpe Foot Sweat Absorbing Lotion

   As per the makers, the Foot Lotion by Carpe is made for sweaty feet and may address the issue of excessive sweating in the feet. This foot cream is formulated with a quick-drying, non-greasy formula, which might leave a sticky or oily residue on the skin.

   The brand’s recommended application process involves first washing and drying your feet thoroughly to ensure that no moisture is present, as this can interfere with the product’s absorption. After that, a dime-sized amount of the cream needs to be applied to the soles of your feet. The use of an included applicator in Foot Sweat Absorbing Cream may help spread the cream evenly across the feet, ensuring optimal coverage. The makers advise rubbing the product in for about 15 seconds, allowing it to penetrate the skin and begin its action on the sweat glands.

   According to the official site, one pack of Carpe Foot Sweat Absorbing Cream is available at $19.95. However, there’s a subscription option also available that provides the same cream for $15.96 for one pack.

8. Carpe Breast Sweat Absorbing Lotion

   Breast Lotion by Carpe may help combat under-breast sweat, chafing, and the discomfort associated with moisture buildup in the chest area. It includes sweat-absorbing agents, soothing botanical extracts, skin barrier enhancers, and moisturizers, which could make it suitable for daily use on sensitive skin that is prone to irritation and friction. The lotion is said to be dermatologist-tested, non-greasy, and dries quickly, offering both immediate and long-lasting dryness and comfort.

   Carpe’s Breast Lotion may help form a breathable layer that draws perspiration away from your skin’s surface, reducing the likelihood of skin breakdown and bacterial overgrowth in moisture-trapped areas.

   The lotion also combines botanical extracts, such as Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, which might help tighten your skin and minimize sweat gland activity while offering antimicrobial properties.

   Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract in this Breast Sweat Absorbing lotion may provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, calming irritated skin and protecting it from oxidative stress.

Carpe Advantages

1. Strong Ethical And Sustainability Principles

   As per the official website, all Carpe products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and free of harmful ingredients like parabens and sulfates. The brand also highlights that its products are dermatologist-recommended, which could make them safe for use without compromising on performance or ethical standards.

2. Brand Specialization

   While most antiperspirant brands stick to underarm solutions, Carpe claims to address the sweat concerns of various body parts, including hands, feet, face, and groin. This comprehensive approach may help ensure that you can manage sweat all over your body, not just under your arms.

3. Personalization And User Experience

   Carpe claims to enhance the user experience through thoughtful personalization. Its official website features a sweat quiz that helps you identify the best products for your unique needs, which may help improve product match and satisfaction. Coupled with flexible subscription options and bundled offerings, the brand makes it easier and more cost-effective for people to manage a problem that affects their everyday lives.

Limitations Of Carpe Brand

1. A Product Line That Feels Confined

   While Carpe has expanded its offerings to address sweat in various parts of the body, the overall product range remains relatively narrow. There’s an opportunity to branch into related skincare or hygiene categories, but the current lineup may feel limited to customers looking for more comprehensive personal care options from a single brand.

2. Dependence On Topical Aluminum-Based Actives

   Carpe’s key formulations rely on aluminum-based compounds (e.g., aluminum sesquichlorohydrate), the same active ingredient found in many standard antiperspirants. While effective, this active component is not novel, and some consumers seek “aluminum-free” alternatives due to concerns (substantiated or not) about potential links to skin irritation or long-term health. Carpe’s reliance on a well-established but controversial compound can be viewed as a limitation in formula evolution.

How Did We Evaluate Carpe?

1. Customer Reviews

   We evaluated Carpe based on an analysis of customer feedback on Trustpilot, which highlights both the strengths and challenges associated with the brand.

   Carpe’s deodorants receive strong appreciation for effectively controlling sweat and odor, with many customers reporting long-lasting results even after a full day of activity. Users also appreciate the moisturizing properties, especially people with sensitive skin, and the variety of scents available adds to the product’s appeal.

   However, the brand faces some criticism due to its subscription model. Multiple customers reported issues with unauthorized charges, difficulties canceling subscriptions, and poor communication around billing. These frustrations have led to a negative perception of the brand’s business practices.

   While some customers had positive experiences with Carpe’s customer service, such as fast responses and problem resolution, the overall dissatisfaction with the subscription system and return policy has impacted the brand’s reputation.

2. Brand Reputation

   To assess Carpe, we considered its reviews and ratings on platforms like Trustpilot and BBB. Carpe has received a 3.9-star rating on Trustpilot based on 450+ reviews. While this rating isn’t perfect, it indicates that a majority of customers are satisfied with the products, although there are some areas where the brand could improve. Carpe, especially its lotion, holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which is a strong indication of the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction, transparent business practices, and effective complaint resolution. An A+ rating typically signifies that the company is trustworthy and maintains a high level of integrity in its product offerings.

3. Refund Guarantee

   We evaluated Carpe’s refund policy based on its clarity, ease of use, and the extent to which it accommodates different types of customers. The brand claims to offer a 100% money-back guarantee on the first order, which could be appealing to new customers looking to try the product with minimal risk. Refunds are processed quickly, within two business days of receiving the returned items, and the policy is straightforward, providing clear instructions on how to initiate returns.

   However, there are limitations worth considering. Shipping costs are not refunded, which may be a deterrent for customers who have paid high shipping fees. The policy has several exclusions, such as not allowing refunds on orders made for resale or those associated with chargebacks. Moreover, only the first order placed by a customer is eligible for a refund, which could be frustrating for people who make multiple purchases. The 14-day return window for Try Before You Buy orders is also relatively brief, limiting the time customers have to evaluate the product.

   Carpe’s refund policy stands out as a good option for first-time buyers, with a simple and quick process. However, its exclusions, the restriction to the first order, and the lack of coverage for shipping costs may be limiting factors for some customers.

Carpe Alternatives

1. Lumē

   Carpe and Lumē, both brands, aim to support sweat management, but they focus on different needs and approaches. Lumē claims to specialize in whole-body deodorants that target odor control rather than sweat reduction. Its products may prevent odor before it forms, providing protection (up to 72 hours) across various body areas, including armpits, feet, buttocks, vulvas, and testicles. The brand claims to use mandelic acid, known for its odor-fighting properties, and its formulas are pH-optimized, free from common irritants like baking soda, parabens, and sulfates, making them gentle on sensitive skin. Lumē also offers a wide range of products, including solid sticks, cream sticks, sprays, and tubes, along with body care products like body washes, creams, and wipes. These are available in various scents or unscented for people with fragrance sensitivities.

   On the other hand, Carpe is focused on controlling excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), with products designed to address specific areas of the body where sweat is most problematic, such as the underarms, face, chest, and feet. Its formulations primarily aim to block sweat glands and reduce perspiration. The brand offers various strengths, including the Underarm Stick and sweat-absorbing products for the face and chest. Carpe uses aluminum-based compounds in its products, which are clinically proven to control sweat. Its product offerings are made to be applied at night for optimal results, allowing for dryness throughout the day. Carpe provides a personalized experience through its Sweat Quiz, helping you select the most suitable products for your needs, and offers a subscription model for regular deliveries.

   Lumē’s approach is more holistic, offering an all-over support to prevent body odor, whereas Carpe takes a more focused approach, targeting excessive sweating.

   The brand Lumē’s products are intended for general odor control and are suitable for all areas of the body, making them suitable for people seeking an effective deodorant that can be used anywhere. Carpe, however, could be better suited for people with specific concerns about excessive sweating, offering targeted products that can address different levels of hyperhidrosis.

2. Drysol

   Carpe and Drysol claim to tackle sweat and odor concerns but with distinct focuses, formulations, and applications. Drysol makes strong antiperspirants for people who sweat too much, also called hyperhidrosis. They offer three types of antiperspirants, which are Drysol Mild with 6.25 percent Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate, Drysol Regular with 12 percent ACH for moderate sweating, and Drysol Extra Strength with 20 percent ACH for sweaty hands and feet. Its products come in easy-to-use dab-on bottles in 35 milliliters and 60 milliliters sizes and also in a solution form in 37.5 milliliters. Drysol also focuses on providing products that are travel-friendly, fit easily into a bag, and are made for people who want strong and reliable support for their sweating concerns.

   Carpe focuses on providing personalized, dermatologist-tested products designed for various areas of your body, including underarms, face, feet, and chest. Their products combine clinical and natural ingredients, aiming to offer a gentle yet effective option for people with mild to moderate sweating. Carpe is known for its convenience, with products like underarm sticks and facial sweat absorbers intended for daily use. They also emphasize personalization through tools like their online Sweat Quiz and offer a 100% money-back guarantee for first-time buyers, making it easy for customers to try their products risk-free.

Final Words

Carpe claims to offer targeted, dermatologist-tested products for managing excessive sweating. Its formulations could aid in addressing sweat developed underarms, face, feet, and chest. The brand’s personalized approach, including the Sweat Quiz and subscription model, may help you find suitable products and maintain a consistent supply.

However, while Carpe claims to be effective in sweat control, it primarily focuses on perspiration rather than odor prevention. People seeking a more comprehensive option for both sweat and odor might find it less suitable.

Carpe’s use of aluminum-based compounds, which are effective in blocking sweat, may irritate some people, particularly if they have sensitive skin. Thus, patch testing is recommended to avoid potential reactions.

Carpe could provide a practical option for sweat management with its targeted formulations and personalized services. However, its limited focus on odor control and reliance on aluminum compounds may not meet the needs of everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Carpe products be used immediately after showering?
   For optimal results, the brand states that it is best to apply Carpe products to completely dry skin, as moisture can reduce the effectiveness of the product.
2. Can I combine Carpe with other skincare or beauty products?
   Carpe products can typically be used alongside other skincare products, like makeup or moisturizers, but it’s best to allow Carpe to fully absorb before applying or using other products to avoid interfering with its efficacy.
3. Can I purchase Carpe products individually, or are they only available in bundles or subscriptions?
   Carpe offers both individual products and bundles, which may allow you to choose based on your preferences or specific needs.
4. How does Carpe ensure that its sweat care products are safe for long-term use?
   Carpe claims to ensure product safety and effectiveness through rigorous dermatological testing, careful ingredient selection, and customer feedback to refine its formulations continuously.