Botox for Sweating

"My excessive sweating was so embarrassing," says Kay, a 28-year-old newlywed. "I would completely soak through whatever shirt I was wearing by my lunch break and have to bring extra clothes to change into every day so my co-workers wouldn't notice," she continues. "My sweating would go into hyperdrive whenever I was stressed out, so you can imagine how nervous I was for my wedding day," she laughs. "I had had BOTOX® between my eyebrows before, but only recently found out that it could also be used to treat my hyperhidrosis."

Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive, or abnormal sweating that is non-responsive to antiperspirants or traditional means to control sweating. According to recent studies by the Archives of Dermatological Research, 4.8%, or 15.3 million Americans have hyperhidrosis. Their symptoms can range from persistent dampness in the underarm area to dripping sweat throughout the day. In some cases, the condition can affect such areas as the palms of the hands as well. Regardless of where it is present, hyperhidrosis can have a severely negative impact on the quality of life of those diagnosed. But, a unique solution lies in a therapy that is typically attributed to simply reducing wrinkles, not sweat.

The use of BOTOX® for sweating in the treatment of hyperhidrosis is a relatively new treatment option. It is FDA-approved for use in the underarms for patients who cannot control their sweating through prescription-strength antiperspirants. It may also be used "off-label" to reduce sweating in the hands, feet, and even the face!

How does BOTOX® for sweating work for excessive sweating?

BOTOX® for sweating injections work by blocking the nerves which activate your sweat glands. For most people, our nervous system takes care of regulating the amount of sweat we produce when our body temperature rises, but the glands of people with hyperhidrosis are overactive. When BOTOX® for sweating is injected into the underarms, these nerves become temporarily unresponsive and can't signal your glands to produce sweat.

What happens during a BOTOX® underarm treatment?

You should always seek out a licensed and reputable provider for any BOTOX® treatment, as this is a medical treatment. Most states require that anyone who administers BOTOX® for sweating injections be at least an RN, PA or MD.

Your BOTOX® for sweating treatment will not take long. In some cases, your provider will apply baby powder to your underarm area first to identify areas of heavier sweating. She will then proceed with injecting the product in a grid-like pattern across each underarm with a tiny, fine needle. You will be given cool packs to numb the area before and after the treatment, and many patients experience only mild discomfort. You can return to your daily life immediately after your procedure.

Who should consider BOTOX® treatment for excessive sweating?

Although this form of treatment is medically indicated for those diagnosed with hyperhidrosis, many people who merely experience heavier sweating pursue treatment. In some cases, patients have the procedure for a special occasion like a wedding, work presentation, or performance. Your provider will discuss whether or not you are a good candidate for BOTOX® for sweating during your initial consultation.

Should I do anything special to prepare for my BOTOX® underarm treatment?

Your injection specialist may ask you to quit shaving 2 to 3 days before your treatment to avoid heightened sensitivity. If you are currently taking any blood-thinning medications, you may also discuss omitting their use for a few days with your primary care physician to prevent bruising. Beyond that, treatment is quick, simple and very little is needed to be done to prepare.

What should I expect after my BOTOX® for sweating treatment?

You can return to your normal activities immediately after treatment. It takes most patients about 2 to 7 days before they experience reduced sweating in their underarm area. It may take up to two full weeks for excessive sweating to completely stop and for you to stay dry the entire day. Your provider may have you schedule a two-week follow-up to ensure that no areas were missed during your first treatment.

Because BOTOX® eventually wears off, you should anticipate repeating treatment in the future. Unlike results for wrinkle reduction that last 3 to 4 months, BOTOX® for sweating injections can last anywhere from four to fourteen months!

How much do BOTOX® for sweating underarm treatments cost?

Treatment costs for BOTOX® for sweating will vary from clinic to clinic and may be dependent upon the surface area covered during your treatment and the number of units injected. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $500-$1,000 to treat excessive underarm sweating with BOTOX®.

To save on ALL of your BOTOX® treatments, whether they are for excessive sweating or forehead wrinkles, it is advisable to join the Brilliant Distinctions Rewards program by Allergan, the manufacturer of BOTOX®. This program allows you to earn points with every treatment and trade them in for cash discounts towards future treatments.

"I am proud to say that I stayed completely dry on my wedding day," exclaims Kay, holding up her arms. "I mapped out my treatment plan with my injection specialist, who is also the same Physician Assistant who does my facial BOTOX®, so I was also WRINKLE free for my big day," she smiles. "This treatment has made me feel so much more confident and carefree and has truly changed my life!"

Have you been diagnosed with hyperhidrosis? Do you have a special event coming up that you want to remain completely dry for? Call Infinite Youth Medical Spa at (952) 500-0350 to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our Physician Assistants to discuss BOTOX® for sweating treatments!