There is nothing more embarrassing than realizing that you have stains on your shirt from sweaty arm pits. Or shaking somebody’s hand with a sweaty palm. How about standing in front of a room of people with sweat dripping down your forehead (despite the room temperature being cool)? Sweating is an essential body function for temperature-control but when it becomes excessive it can interfere with the quality of life.
Excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, is frustrating for those that suffer from it. I am one of them. A trial of antiperspirants and at home remedies will sometimes result in a solution. However, often times the solution is only temporary. Prescription antiperspirants while effective for some can cause serious irritation.
Research has been proven that treating excessive sweating of the armpits (as well as hands, feet, head and under the breasts) with Botox is safe and effective. As a dermatologist, I have administered Botox to patients with excessive sweating on many occasions with incredible results. The Botox causes a temporary cessation of sweat glands in the area that is treated.
The treatment can be done in the office in as little as 20 minutes and results will be noticeable in about 2 to 4 days after treatment (with the full effects noticed within 2 weeks). One treatment can last up to almost nine months. It does require several tiny injections in order to get the medication where it needs to go. This discomfort is usually manageable. We have some in-office tricks for keeping patients comfortable. The best thing about this procedure is that it is now being covered by several insurance plans. This is amazing since out of pocket costs for Botox or other lasers that treat sweating can be upwards of $1500 a treatment.
Contact a board certified dermatologist to find out if you are a good candidate for Botox to treat hyperhidrosis.
African American Dermatologist
