hyperhidrosis

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating that goes beyond what’s needed to regulate body temperature. It can significantly impact daily life and cause emotional distress or social anxiety. Treating hyperhidrosis with Botulinum toxin is one of the most effective options out there — especially when antiperspirants and other treatments don’t cut it. It’s used both medically and cosmetically.

Types of Hyperhidrosis:

Primary (Focal) Hyperhidrosis

  • Most common type
  • Usually starts in childhood or adolescence
  • Affects specific areas: hands, feet, underarms, or face
  • Often symmetrical (e.g., both hands or both armpits)

Secondary (Generalised) Hyperhidrosis

  • Caused by an underlying medical condition or medication
  • Usually starts in adulthood
  • Affects larger areas or the whole body
  • Conditions like diabetes, infections, menopause, or thyroid problems can be culprits

FAQ’s

What is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating, usually in areas like:

  • Underarms (axillary hyperhidrosis)

  • Hands (palmar)

  • Feet (plantar)

  • Face/scalp

  • Groin

It works by blocking the nerve signals that activate sweat glands. When injected into the skin, it temporarily stops the glands in that area from producing sweat.

Yes — it’s approved for underarm hyperhidrosis. Use on hands, feet, and face is off-label but commonly done.

  • A provider injects small amounts of Botox just under the skin in a grid-like pattern across the sweating area.

  • A topical numbing cream is often used, especially for sensitive areas like hands or feet.

Your appointment will be aroumd 45 minutes to an hour, though actual treatment usually will only take around 30 minutes, depending on the area.

You’ll usually start seeing less sweat in 2–5 days, with full results in about 2 weeks.

Not usually — but compensatory sweating (sweating in other areas) can happen in rare cases.

It treats physical sweating, regardless of the trigger (heat, stress, etc.).

Yes, but most people find they don’t need it anymore in treated areas.

  • On average: 9-12 months

  • For some people: up to 12-14 months

Most are mild, but can include:

  • Injection site pain or bruising

  • Temporary muscle weakness (esp. in hands or feet)

  • Headaches or flu-like symptoms (rare)

  • Compensatory sweating (increased sweating elsewhere, rare)

Discomfort is usually minimal but more sensitive in the palms and soles. Numbing cream is often used to alleviate the discomfort though is not always 100% effective.

  • Anyone with primary hyperhidrosis (not caused by other conditions)

  • People for whom antiperspirants and oral meds don’t work

  • Individuals seeking a non-surgical option

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals

  • People with neuromuscular disorders (e.g., Myasthenia Gravis)

  • Those allergic to Botulinum toxin

Every 9-12 months, though some people can stretch it to once a year with repeat use.

What are the advantages to treating hyperhidrosis with Botulinum Toxin?

Treating hyperhidrosis with Botulinum Toxin (commonly known as Botox) has several advantages—especially for people with focal (localized) excessive sweating, like in the underarms, hands, feet, or face. Here are some of the benefits:

Highly Effective

  • Botox blocks the nerve signals that trigger sweat glands.
  • Clinical studies show over 80–90% reduction in sweating in treated areas.
  • Effects often kick in within a few days and peak at around 2 weeks.

Localised Treatment

  • Targets specific problem areas (e.g., underarms or palms) without affecting the rest of the body.
  • Great for people who sweat excessively in just one or two spots.

Minimally Invasive

  • It’s an in-office procedure done with small injections—no surgery required.
  • Takes about 10–30 minutes depending on the area.

Quick Recovery Time

  • Little to no downtime—you can go about your day right after treatment.
  • Minor redness or swelling at injection sites usually goes away quickly.

Temporary But Long-Lasting Relief

  • Effects last around 9–12 months, sometimes longer.
  • You can repeat treatments as needed without long-term side effects.

Improved Quality of Life

  • Reduces physical discomfort and emotional stress.
  • Helps with social confidence, work performance, and daily activities

Risks and Considerations

While botulinum toxin injections are generally considered safe, there are some risks and side effects:

  • Not a cure, just symptom control.
  • Temporary Muscle Weakness: Some individuals may experience unintended muscle weakness near the injection site.
  • Bruising and Swelling: Mild bruising, swelling, or redness at the injection site can occur.
  • Flu-like Symptoms: Some people may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, headache, or mild nausea, after the injection.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rarely, individuals may experience an allergic reaction, which could include itching, rash, or trouble breathing.