a flat elongate sweat band having end portions releasably and adjustably fastenable to each other to form an annular configuration for use . the sweat band provides a thin tubular cover defining an internal chamber carrying a perspiration absorbing pad . the cover is compound with an annularly interior portion that is perspiration permeable and an annularly exterior portion that is perspiration impermeable which may carry patternation for aesthetic purposes or alphanumeric characters for advertising . one side of the cover carries an elongate strip of elastomeric material that shrinks after placement to provide elastic tension to aid positional maintenance of the band during use . the absorbent pad is formed of a mixture of linted fiber and water absorbing polymeres . the band structure particularly adapts the device for formation by continuous manufacturing processes which provide economic parameters allowing single use , throw away type use .