Are you afraid to lift your arms? Do you carry an extra shirt with you at all times because you’re hiding under arm sweat stains? We’ve all been there. While sweating is perfectly normal and essential to regulating body temperature, some people have been found to sweat much more than is biologically necessary. If you are one of these people, you might have a condition known as hyperhidrosis that can be treated with Botox.

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is the medical condition characterized by excessive sweating in the armpits, palms, soles of the feet, face, scalp, and/or torso. The amount of sweating varies case by case and is characterized by an abnormal amount of sweating (not caused by triggers like heat or exercise) that interferes with daily life. Some patients experience symptoms like cracking of the skin and athlete’s foot.
In addition, hyperhidrosis can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Often, those affected by this condition avoid social gatherings and other public events because of embarrassment. Some experts say this condition can be frustrating and socially isolating to those who are impacted by it. Fortunately in most cases, the condition is treatable with injections of Botox.

Botox For Sweating: A Hyperhidrosis Treatment

Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA) is a natural, purified neurotoxic protein with the ability to temporarily block the secretion of the chemical that is responsible for “turning on” the body’s sweat glands. By blocking or interrupting this chemical messenger, Botox “turns off” sweating at the area where it has been injected.

Where Is Botox Used for Hyperhidrosis?

In addition to cosmetic enhancements, Botox is currently approved by the FDA for the treatment of excessive underarm sweating. However, it has been used effectively for “off-label” treatment on other areas of the body. For example, palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis (or excessive sweating of the hands and feet) can be treated successfully with Botox in the same way that underarms are treated. Doctors may prescribe Botox for other areas of the body prone to excessive sweating which include:

• back
• chest and under the breasts
• groin
• head
• face
• nose

Is Botox for Sweating Safe?

Certainly, Botox for hyperhidrosis treatment is a safe alternative to prescription medication or other more invasive procedures. The injections are shallow enough that no long-term alteration of body function occurs. After injections, the doctor may give you something for the pain like a numbing agent. Despite the general safety of using Botox for sweating, there are some side effects including:

• Pain or bruising in the injection area
• Flu-like symptoms
• Headaches
• Dryness of the eyes
• Droopy eyelids (when doing facial injections)

Ultimately, Botox for excessive sweating treatment is a safe procedure and can improve your life and relationships. However, please note that only skilled practitioners should administer Botox treatments.

Results of Botox for Hyperhidrosis

After Botox, you can go home immediately. It’s important to note that the patient should avoid exercise and not take a hot bath or shower for the rest of the day.
Most patients will begin to notice the results of Botox for hyperhidrosis in as little as 2-4 days. While some will see the effects of its full potential at approximately 2 weeks after the initial treatment. These results typically last 6 months, but some studies have found that it can last as long as 9-12 months. Results may not last as long on the hands and feet so be prepared to repeat the procedure after the duration of this time frame.
Generally speaking, both men and women will see a 70-90% reduction in perspiration with Botox injections. Although Botox for hyperhidrosis does not completely stop sweating, most people will see a very noticeable improvement.

Eliminate Excessive Sweat with Botox

Excessive sweating can disrupt your normal daily activities and cause social anxiety and embarrassment. Hyperhidrosis dramatically affects people’s lives, but it doesn’t have to. Schedule your FREE consultation with our staff at San Diego Botox to determine if you are a candidate for botox injections to treat hyperhidrosis, and we will answer any questions you may have.