Although Arizona is not known for its humidity, our warmer climate can make certain times of the year extra sweaty for a lot of us. Especially if you spend any time at the gym or active outdoors, biking, golfing, hiking, or attending sporting events. But for 7.8 million Americans sweat is much more of an issue. Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating is a common challenge for many on the palms, feet, armpits and the groin area. People who suffer with this problem sweat excessively in normal, everyday situations. The problem is then accentuated in stressful situations or during physical exertion.
While there may be medical causes for Hyperhidrosis, for many, there is no apparent reason for this condition. Still, excessive sweat can be humiliating, often causing:
- Reluctance to go out in public
- Fear of having stained clothing
- High levels of self-consciousness
- Withdrawal from society
- Higher levels of depression
- Concern about body odor
- Limited selection of clothing
Botox® for Hyperhidrosis
While Botox® is primarily used for cosmetic treatments of facial lines and wrinkles, the FDA has approved the use of Botox for treating excessive sweat under the arms, with data showing over an 85% improvement in the amount of sweat produced.
Results can be seen in as little to 2-4 days with the reduction lasting as long as 14 months!
Not only are the physical symptoms of sweat addressed with Botox, patients also report a drastic improvement of quality of life . Imagine being able to confidently wear a stylish white blouse without worrying about sweat stains!
Side Effects of Botox for Excess Sweat
Over time, Botox can decrease the natural sweat production in the treated areas, so in some cases less Botox may needed after repeat treatments.
But sweating is good, right? Yes. Sweating is healthy and natural, Botox for Hyperhidrosis will not effect your body’s ability to regulate your temperature. The underarms, for example only house 2% of the sweat glands in the body, so treatment in this area will have minimal impact on your body’s thermoregulation.
Do other areas of the body sweat more because sweat is not leaving via underarms? Studies conducted indicate this is a non-issue.
Other Areas Treated With Botox for Excessive Sweating
Botox for palmar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating on the palms) is also effective, however the treatment only lasts an average of 6 months. Some have reported that the injections are quite painful and there may be temporary weakness after the treatment.
Botox for plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweating) can also be administered, however, there is only a 50% satisfaction rating and these injections are quite painful.
Preparing for Your Botox Appointment
Oddly enough, shaving is not recommended under the arms, and physicians actually prefer at least three days of hair growth.
The injections only take about 10 minutes as the practitioner injects small amounts of Botox in a grid-like pattern, typically spaced 1-2 cm apart. Typically, around 50 units of Botox are used per area. (If treating underarms, 100 total units would be used). You have the option of having your Provider numb the area to be treated prior to your injections.
Post-treatment, we will want to see you after 2 weeks. During your follow up appointment your Provider will be able to identify any areas that are still overproducing sweat and provide additional injection in those areas if needed.
Cost of Botox for Excessive Sweat
Your Hyperhidrosis treatment is typically administered by the vial. At Derma Health, a typical underarm treatment would be $1,099.
Botox is not intended as a cure for hyperhidrosis, but it does significantly reduce the physical symptoms of this condition. Discuss this option with your Medical Provider and see if you might benefit from this life-changing treatment.
Learn More About Botox:
- Lift Your Eyebrows With Botox & Smooth Away Frown Lines
- 5 Things You Can Expect From A Botox Treatment
- Why I’m Starting Botox At 26
- Top 3 Things To Know When Considering Botox
Questions or Want to Give Botox a Try? Call 480-470-5747 or complete the form above.