Sweating is normal and healthy. In fact, your body has between 2 million and 4 million sweat glands. When your body heats up, these glands release sweat to help cool you down.
What’s considered “normal” sweating?
There is no “normal”! Some people just naturally sweat more than others, so try not to compare yourself with other people.
Are antiperspirants and deodorants enough?
Not always. Over-the-counter and prescription antiperspirants are 2 of the first options people with severe underarm sweating try. These products work by blocking sweat ducts and reducing the amount of perspiration that reaches the skin. Deodorants help control body odor and are typically used in addition to antiperspirants. When these products don’t work well enough, it may be time to ask your dermatologist about BOTOX®.
Do you sweat “too much”?
If you do any of the following to cope with sweating, talk to your doctor about severe underarm sweating:
- Change your clothes frequently
- Put absorbent materials under clothing
- Avoid certain fabrics or clothing styles
BOTOX® is injected into the skin to treat the symptoms of severe underarm sweating (severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis) when medicines used on the skin (topical) do not work well enough in people 18 years and older.
It is not known whether BOTOX® is safe or effective for severe sweating anywhere other than your armpits.
How does BOTOX® work?
BOTOX® temporarily blocks the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate sweat glands. When the sweat glands don’t receive chemical signals, severe sweating is reduced.
Where does the sweat go?
Sweat doesn’t go anywhere or get backed up because it’s simply not produced in the areas treated with BOTOX®. Sweat will continue to be produced elsewhere.
When should I ask about BOTOX®?
Talk to your physician at any time about your condition and BOTOX® It’s possible your underarm sweating can be managed by a topical agent, such as an antiperspirant or deodorant containing an aluminium-based compound. If that doesn’t work, ask your doctor if BOTOX® treatment may be right for you.
How long does BOTOX® last?
In a clinical study, patients had drier underarms for up to 201 days or 6.7 months. Individual results may vary.
What is it like to get a BOTOX® treatment?
Your doctor will make 10 to 15 small injections into the affected underarm area through a very fine needle. You should notice a significant reduction in underarm sweating within 4 weeks of your first treatment. If you do not see a significant reduction in sweating, you should contact your dermatologist and request a follow-up consultation.