Botox for Excessive Sweating (hyperhidrosis)

by Kate Dee, MD 

It is normal to sweat when the body needs cooling. But some people suffer from hyperhidrosis which is a medical condition where the body sweats profusely even when it does not need cooling. Often the sweat is on the hands, feet, underarms and head while the rest of the body stays dry. About 2.8% of adults in the US suffer from hyperhidrosis, men as much as women. Of those, about half have axillary hyperhidrosis, or severe sweating in the underarm areas. This can be a devastating problem when you are trying to present as professional and calm or romantic and sexy– and there are giant sweat marks in your underarms.

Before BOTOX® came along, treatments for hyperhidrosis were drastic, expensive, painful and often not all that effective. Botox treatment is simple and very effective and lasts usually much longer than the typical 4 months we see for wrinkle treatment– usually between 6 and 12 months. Injections in the underarm are surprisingly painless. The effects usually set in within a few days, but may take up to 2 weeks to have maximum benefit.

If you or someone you know suffers from axillary hyperhidrosis, consider coming in for a consultation. It is time to stop soaking through those clothes!