Axillary Hyperhidrosis = Excessive Underarm Sweating

What causes excessive underarm sweating?

Stimulation of the sweat glands by nerve endings which descend from higher centers in the brain. These nerves respond to emotional stresses, like intimate social situations, public speaking, physical stresses, and increased body temperature that comes with exercise or hot humid weather.

Can Botox treatment help?

Botox is FDA-approved for severe underarm sweating when topical agents don’t work. Botox helps control this condition by temporarily blocking the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. When the sweat glands don’t receive chemical signals, the severe sweating stops.

How is Botox given?

A small volume of Botox is injected into the affected underarm area through a very fine needle. The needle is placed just under the skin, so you may experience some injection-related discomfort. Normal activity can be immediately resumed, while heavy exercise should be avoided for several hours.

When will Botox take effect?

You should notice decreased sweating within 48 hours and full effect within 1 week. There may be simultaneous disappearance of odor associated with decreased sweating.

How long does a Botox treatment last?

Most patients will obtain benefit of dryness with one treatment of Botox for six to ten months.

What are the risks and complications?

Complications from injection into the axillary skin include tiny bruises which fade in few days, and small persistent areas of sweating that may need a second treatment. There is no risk of numbness or permanent change in the axillary skin.

What happens if I decide to stop treatment?

If you decide not to have further treatment, there will be no lasting change in the treated areas. The effects of Botox treatment will gradually wear off, and your underarm sweating will resume.

Where can I learn more about severe underarm sweating?

The International Hyperhidrosis Society is an excellent resource for information and support. Visit their web site at www.SweatHelp.org.

If you are considering medical spa treatments or would just like to meet with one of the doctors to discuss the procedure you are interested in, please contact us at the Torrance office at (310) 784-0644 or send us an email.