Hyperhidrosis (sweating) treatment with Botox injections are the most effective options. They are FDA-approved and non-surgical solutions, so people who sweat excessively can benefit from them. Botox treatment can be suitable for underarms, palms, feet, and even scalp and face.
Key Notes
Hyperhidrosis botox is a method used to control excessive sweating. The word “hyperhidrosis” is actually a condition in which the body produces more sweat than usual. Unfortunately, this condition can impact the patient’s quality of life negatively.
Hyperhidrosis condition:
- Involves excessive sweating, especially in areas like the forehead, scalp, palms, soles, back, and armpits.
- It can be genetic (primary hyperhidrosis) or caused by a secondary medical condition.
- Sweating can occur without any trigger
How Injections Work as a Sweating Solution?
Your doctor will inject Botox (Botulinum Toxin Type A) into the area where you sweat too much. It basically blocks the nerves that tell your sweat glands to work, so you’ll produce less sweat. It’s most commonly used in the underarms, but it’s also great for the palms and soles. You’ll start seeing results in about 3 to 7 days, and they’ll last for around 6 months.
Who is the Botox for Hyperhidrosis Treatment for?
Before we decide on the best treatment for you, we need to know how bad your sweating is. Your medical history, clinical assessment and tools like the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale can be useful.
Why go for Botox for Hyperhidrosis?
Botulinum toxin, or Botox as it’s often called, works by blocking the nerves that trigger sweat glands, meaning you won’t sweat for a while in the area that’s been treated. It’s a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure with fast results and minimal downtime.
How are the Botox Injections Administered?
- Your doctor will use an iodine-starch test to find out where you sweat.
- They’ll make a few small injections into your skin with super-thin needles.
- The whole thing should take about 20 minutes. You might feel a bit of a stinging sensation, but don’t worry, it’s not too bad.
Procedure Overview
- Duration: Around 30 minutes
- Anesthesia: Numbing cream or no anesthesia
- Effectiveness: Begins in about 5 days, lasts up to 6-7 months
- Downtime: Not necessary – you can return to daily activities the same day
- Number of injections: About 10-50 small injections per area (varies by treatment site). For example, 15-20 injections for underarm.
- Follow-up: Optional touch-up after 6 months if sweating returns.
Botox for Hyperhidrosis Treatment Aftercare
The side effects of antiperspirant treatment are no worse than sweating all year round. If you sweat too much, it can cause personal discomfort, but don’t worry. You’re not the only one. It’s actually pretty common; around 5% of people have a severe sweating problem. After your treatment, you might experience these symptoms:
- You might get a bit of redness and swelling at the injection sites for a few minutes.
- A bit of a headache after injections in the forehead and face is also a possibility.
- There might be slight bruising in areas with thin skin.
- You might also feel a bit of a burning sensation straight after the jab.
- Some people get a bit of itching on their sensitive skin, but that’s rare.
Is it safe?
Yes, it is considered safe and beneficial. But, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks and side effects to consider. Here is a list of things you need to know:
- Pain or bruising where the needle went in: Mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising where the needle was inserted.
- You might sweat more than usual in other areas (this is called ‘compensatory sweating’). Some patients say they sweat more in areas that were not injected, but this is usually not too bad.
- Mild muscle weakness near the injection area: In very rare cases, Botox can spread slightly and affect nearby muscles.
Hyperhidrosis treatment is not recommended for:
- People with neuromuscular disorders (e.g., ALS, Myasthenia Gravis)
- People with Botulinum toxin allergies
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
What are the alternatives?
- Prescription-Strength Antiperspirants
Contain active agents like aluminum chloride or aluminum zirconium (up to 20%), which work by blocking sweat ducts to minimize perspiration. Suitable for mild to moderate sweating, especially in areas like the underarms, palms, soles, and face. Available both over-the-counter and with a prescription. - Iontophoresis Treatment
A method where the hands or feet are submerged in water while a low electrical current is passed through. This temporarily inhibits sweat gland function. There are also at-home machines for regular use. - Oral Anticholinergic Medications
Drugs like oxybutynin help reduce overall sweat gland activity by limiting nerve signals. While effective, they can cause side effects such as dry mouth or blurred vision. - MiraDry (Microwave-Based Therapy)
A non-invasive solution for underarm sweating that uses microwave energy to permanently eliminate sweat glands in the treated area. Considered especially effective for axillary hyperhidrosis. - Surgical Options (ETS)
Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy involves cutting or clamping the sympathetic nerves responsible for overactive sweating. While often effective, it carries the risk of compensatory sweating in other parts of the body.
How Do You Know Which Treatment Is Right for You?
The best treatment for you depends on a few things about your condition. Doctors usually ask some key questions to decide which method will work best for you:
- Where do you sweat the most? Do you sweat more in your armpits, hands, feet, or face? This will help the doctor to choose the best treatment for you.
- How bad is the sweating? If it’s mild and only happens sometimes, simple treatments may be enough. But if you sweat a lot all the time or very heavily, stronger solutions might be needed.
- Do you have any medical conditions that would prevent you from having certain treatments? Some options like Botox or oral medications aren’t recommended for everyone. Your doctor will check your overall health to see if these are safe for you.
- What have you already tried? If you’ve already tried antiperspirants or home remedies without success, this will help doctors decide if it’s time to try something more advanced.
- If you go through these questions with your doctor, you’ll have a better chance of finding a treatment plan that actually works for your body and lifestyle.
FAQs
1.Does it hurts?
- For underarms, most patients tolerate it well with little to no numbing.
- For palms and soles, the skin is more sensitive, so numbing cream or nerve blocks are often used to ease discomfort.
2. How much a botox for sweating cost?
| Country | Average Cost per Session (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $1,000 – $1,600 | Typically involves 50 units per armpit; effects last 3–6 months. |
| United Kingdom | $330 – $570 | Prices vary by clinic and area treated; underarms are most common. |
| Canada | $200 – $300 | Cost covers injection procedure; medication may be covered by insurance. |
| Australia | $500 – $1,000 | Medicare may cover part of the cost; private insurance varies. |
| Germany | $300 – $600 | Costs depend on clinic and treatment area; insurance coverage varies. |
| Turkey | $280 – $700 | Lower costs due to favorable exchange rates; popular for medical tourism. |
Are you considering a treatment to get rid of excessive sweating in your head area? You can start by finding out your scalp type!