Botox for Hyperhidrosis: An Effective Solution for Excessive Sweating
Are you suffering from excessive sweating and embarrassing sweat stains? Have you tried all sorts of options to decrease sweating? If so, then you may benefit from Botox injections.
Excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis, can be an embarrassing and challenging condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It goes beyond the occasional nervous perspiration or the aftermath of a strenuous workout. Hyperhidrosis causes individuals to experience excessive sweating, even in non-stressful situations, leading to discomfort and a negative impact on their quality of life.
Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that exceeds the body's thermoregulatory needs. It can occur in specific areas of the body, such as the palms, soles of the feet, underarms, face, or it can be generalized, affecting multiple areas simultaneously.
Hyperhidrosis can significantly impact an individual's social life, self-confidence, and emotional well-being. The condition can also affect a person’s quality of life: from select clothing options, carrying antiperspirants everywhere, and constantly stressing if others are noticing your sweat stains. It can be limiting, embarrassing, and socially isolating--that’s where Botox helps!
Botox, or boutlinum toxin, has been widely recognized for its cosmetic use in reducing facial wrinkles, but it also has other therapeutic benefits. Botox works by blocking the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate sweat glands. When injected into the affected areas, such as the underarms or palms, it temporarily paralyzes the nerves responsible for activating sweat production. This prevents the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that triggers sweating. As a result, sweat production in the treated area decreases significantly.
Botox injections have been FDA-approved for people 18 years or older who suffer from hyperhidrosis. Botox for hyperhidrosis is relatively simple, safe, and minimally invasive. A healthcare professional with expertise in administering Botox injections will carefully mark the targeted sweat glands and then administer a series of injections. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes, and the effects usually last around 6 months.
Patients often report a noticeable reduction in sweating within a few days of the treatment. As Botox gradually takes effect, the excessive sweating diminishes, leading to improved comfort and a restored sense of confidence. The full effect will be noticed at two weeks. Studies show an 80% decrease in sweat production at 3 months, and 88% decrease in exercise-induced sweat production at 3 months (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5418980/). Results are temporary, but with maintenance treatments, results last longer.
Benefits of Botox for Hyperhidrosis
Decreased sweating
Decreased body odor
Less invasive than surgical treatment
Long lasting
Improved quality of life, emotional and physical well-being
Decrease in activity limitations and social isolation
Minimal downtime
Side Effects of Botox for Hyperhidrosis
The most common side effects of axillary Botox injections are muscle weakness and asymmetry in treatment. As with any injection, bruising, swelling, and tenderness are possible. Though extremely rare, infection may also occur.
What can I expect on the day of treatment?
It is important to avoid shaving armpits for two or three days prior to your appointment. On the day of treatment, it is a good idea to wear a short-sleeved shirt. Since there is a chance of bleeding, you may stop blood thinning over-the-counter medications and herbal mediations only if it is safe to do so by speaking with your doctor first.
Botox for hyperhidrosis usually requires about 50 units per armpit. Botox is injected very superficially, just below the skin with tiny needles in a grid like pattern. A numbing cream may be used prior to help minimize the pain.
You can resume normal activities for the remainder of the day. However, it is best to avoid exercising, and hot baths for two days. It is also recommended to avoid using deodorant until the following day.
A follow up appointment after two weeks is recommended when the Botox has reached its full effect, as it may be necessary to treat any missed areas.
Botox for hyperhidrosis can dramatically improve one’s daily functioning and quality of life. Though temporary, it is safe, effective, and long-lasting. Two treatments a year can be the difference between the daily stress associated with excessive sweating and not having to ever think twice.
Don’t sweat it, with Botox!
XO, Pure Bliss Aesthetics
