Botox for Sweating
Medically Reviewed by Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD
Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is much more than a simple cosmetic problem for many patients- it can be a challenging condition that interferes with daily life and impacts self-confidence. Botox is a great solution for excess sweating for patients that are unable to achieve adequate control with topical products. Botox is FDA-approved for treating excessive underarm sweating ( Botox for axillary hyperhidrosis). In addition to this FDA-approved use, we also use Botox off-label Botox to treat excessive sweating in other areas of the body, including the hands, under the breasts, groin, and forehead. Whether it’s damp palms during a handshake or ever-present "under boob" sweat in the summer, Botox provides a safe, non-invasive way to control sweat and restore comfort and confidence.
We are most well known for Botox cosmetic treatments in New York on the face, but are also nationally recognized experts at other uses of Botox including treatment of hyperhidrosis.
Botox for Hyperhidrosis
Botox is a really great option for the management of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) almost anywhere on the body. Here are some of the areas we commonly use Botox to improve excess sweating in our office:
Botox for Underarm Sweat
Botox is FDA-approved for treating axillary hyperhidrosis, or excessive underarm sweating. This treatment involves injecting Botox into the underarm area to block the nerves that activate sweat glands. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and provides long-lasting results, typically reducing sweating by 82% to 87% in clinical studies. Patients often notice significant improvement within 7 days, with full results visible within two weeks and lasting for approximately four to six months.
Botox in Hands for Sweating
Excessive sweating of the palms, or palmar hyperhidrosis, can be particularly distressing, especially in social and professional settings. Botox injections in the hands effectively reduce sweat production by targeting the overactive sweat glands. Although injections on the palms can typically be painful due to the high sensitivity of the area, our prescription numbing creams, specialized smaller needles, and cooling devices make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
Botox for Groin Sweating
Groin hyperhidrosis is a less commonly discussed but equally frustrating form of excessive sweating. Botox can be used off-label to target sweat glands in this area, providing relief from dampness and odor. Treatment involves precise injections into the groin area, with results typically appearing within 1-2 weeks and lasting for several months. This discreet solution can significantly improve comfort and confidence, particularly in warm weather or active lifestyles. The injections are typically done in the labia majora for women and scrotum for men.
Botox for Sweating Under Breasts
Sweating under the breasts, or inframammary hyperhidrosis, can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, and odor. Botox injections in this area work by temporarily blocking the sweat glands to reduce moisture and associated issues. The treatment is quick and easy and patients love both the significant improvement in comfort, as well as a reduction in the need for frequent clothing changes.
Botox for hyperhidrosis is a versatile and effective treatment that offers long-lasting relief for excessive sweating in multiple areas of the body. With expert administration, it provides a safe and reliable solution for managing this often debilitating condition.
Alternatives to Botox for Sweating
Botox is one of the most effective treatments for controlling excessive sweating in various areas of the body. The alternatives to Botox are limited for regions other than the underarms. For underarm sweating, regular antiperspirants—both over-the-counter and prescription-strength—can be effective in managing mild cases. However, these options often fall short for severe hyperhidrosis or sweating in areas like the hands, groin, or under the breasts.
For sweating in the hands and feet, iontophoresis is an option. This treatment uses a mild electrical current to temporarily reduce sweat gland activity. While it can be effective, it requires regular sessions, which may be inconvenient for some patients. For areas like the groin or under the breasts, applying an antiperspirant can help reduce moisture, while deodorants may be sufficient if odor is the primary concern. However, these solutions often provide only minimal relief compared to the effectiveness of Botox.
When other methods don’t provide the desired results, Botox remains the gold standard for long-lasting and reliable control of excessive sweating.
Arash Akhavan, MD is founder and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group, one of the top centers for cosmetic procedures in New York City for over a decade. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD is a Board Certified Dermatologist and an Associate Professor at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Akhavan is a Castle Connolly Top Doc, New York Magazine Best Doctor, and Super Doctor featured in The New York Times. Dr. Akhavan is a key opinion leader that has been featured on hundreds of media publications including The New York Times, Allure, Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, ABC News, Fox News, Fox 5, NY1, WPIX, and more. He has been featured on nationally syndicated television programs such as The Doctors.
Dr. Akhavan serves as an educator and lecturer for multiple aesthetic device and injectable companies. This allows his office access to newer technologies at an earlier date than other offices, as well as a higher level of expertise in the use of these devices. This, in turn, translates to more effective and safer treatments for our patients.
By Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD | | Categories: Botox, Face and Neck