Hyperhidrosis Treatment: The Botox Use Nobody Talks About

When you hear the word Botox, it’s unlikely that your underarms come to mind. However, if you’re an individual who deals with hyperhidrosis, you definitely want to keep paying attention. Today we’re walking you through the benefits of using ‘tox in the underarms to inhibit overactive sweat glands and restore your comfort and confidence. We’ve gathered some insights from Zoey, one of our injectors here at Coco Med Spa, and we’re excited to share about this lesser-known use for Botox. 

Can Botox really help my underarm sweat?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition caused by overactive sweat glands. It can occur pretty much anywhere that sweat glands exist, but it’s very common in the underarms. While typical sweat may be triggered by heat or anxiety, people dealing with hyperhidrosis sweat excessively even when there is no apparent reason. So, how does Botox help? Just as Botox for cosmetic purposes paralyzes a muscle to prevent expression movements that cause wrinkles, Botox injections into sweat glands paralyze their ability to produce sweat. This eliminates excessive sweating for months or even years, allowing people to live without the discomfort of worrying about the consequences of excessive sweating.

What other areas can be treated with Botox for hyperhidrosis?

Botox can safely be administered in the many areas that sweat excessively. However, our most common treatment areas are the underarms and the face. This treatment is quick, minimally invasive, and typically causes only mild discomfort. Of course, numbing options are always available. 

We asked Zoey how much Botox is typically required to treat the underarms, and this is what she shared:

Q: How many units of Botox does underarm sweating usually take?

A: Hyperhidrosis in the underarms is a high-dose treatment, requiring 100 units in total (50 units per underarm). These injections target the skin layer, not the muscle like traditional cosmetic Botox, so you do not have to worry about any reduced muscle movement or reduced range of motion from these injections. 

How long do the results from Botox for hyperhidrosis last? 

Here’s what Zoey shared with us about results expectations:

Q: How quickly do your patients notice a difference (stop sweating) and for how long?

A: One of the most appealing perks of underarm Botox is that patients can start to see reduced sweating within a few days post-treatment. In fact, I have had multiple patients report they had noticeable results within one to two days. Another great bonus is that the treatment typically lasts from 6-12 months for most, with some of my patients seeing lasting effects for up to 2 years!

It’s important to remember that all bodies work a little differently. While we can’t say exactly how long your results will last, we will work with you to make sure you know when it’s time to re-treat the area. 

How safe is Botox for hyperhidrosis?

Occasionally, people voice concerns about the safety of stopping an area from sweating. This is a valid question, and we love to explain how safe the treatment is! 

We asked Zoey her thoughts, and this is what she had to say:

Q: Is it safe to stop sweating in one area?

A: Absolutely! Our bodies are very adaptable and regulate our body temperatures through a variety of sweat glands throughout the body. Treating hyperhidrosis with Botox is a very safe treatment and one of the few modalities to reduce excessive sweating in the underarms for prolonged periods of time. 

The good news is that stopping overproduction of sweat in one area doesn’t lead to more sweat production elsewhere. You’ll likely find that you feel more comfortable and better temperature-regulated due to the reduced anxiety from excessive sweat. As far as any side effects go, they are the same as with any other Botox injection. You may experience some tenderness or mild bruising where the injection was given, but this is not inhibitive, and it passes quickly. 

Who is the right candidate for Botox for hyperhidrosis?

Getting Botox treatments for hyperhidrosis is largely a personal choice. Individuals who routinely sweat through their clothes and socks, or find that their hand-to-hand interactions are affected by palm sweating, are likely great candidates for the treatment. Botox for hyperhidrosis is truly a quality of life investment that can boost both confidence and comfort. Although prescription antiperspirants and other milder sweating treatments are available, if they are routinely failing to deliver results, Botox should be considered. 

If you’re ready to give underarm Botox a try with us at Coco Med Spa in St. Pete, give us a call! We’d love to help you move through the world with comfort, confidence, and no worries about sweat!