With summer approaching and temperatures rising the fear of the dreaded sweat patch may be on your mind. For some people excessive sweating can disrupt their everyday life. It can affect their choice of clothes and the activities they take part in. If this sounds like you then Botox injections for excessive sweating may be the answer.
Hyperhydrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. It mainly affects the armpit but can affect other areas of the body to.
What causes excessive sweating?
Excessive sweating can be classified into two main types
- Primary Hyperhydrosis: most people have a genetic predisposition and the cause is unknown
- Secondary Hyperhydrosis: due to an underlying health condition
If you have new hyperhidrosis then it is recommended you see your GP to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
How to treat excessive sweating?
Hyperhydrosis can be treated using Botox injections. Botox is administered into the armpits via a series of injections to prevent the sweat glands from producing excessive sweat. The procedure takes around 30 minutes. Results can be seen within 7 days and last between 4-6 months depending on individual response.
How does Botox stop excessive sweating?
Botox works by blocking the signals for perspiration at the sweat glands. It will reduce sweat gland activity resulting in a lessening of body odor and damp patches but not reddening the area bone dry.
What should I do before Botox armpit treatment
For Botox injections in the armpit, please shave the underarms the day before your appointment (both males and females). The area will be cleansed prior to injection but it is preferable to not wear deodorant on the day of your appointment. The area for treatment will need to be exposed so a dark coloured vest or sleeveless top is recommended.
What should I do after Botox armpit treatment?
After your treatment you should do the following
- Avoid tight fitting tops
- Avoid White tops immediately after treatment as there may be marks from the treatment which can stain clothing
- Avoid alcohol, aspirin for 24 hours
- Avoid applying deodorant for up to 12 hours after
- Avoid hot baths/sauna/shower for up to 12 hours
- Do not go to the gym for the next 12 hours
What are the side effects of Botox for excessive sweating?
Botox injections to treat excessive sweating is a safe well-established procedure with minimal risk. Common side effects of injecting Botox include bleeding, bruising and swelling at the injection site. These are temporary and should disappear with 48 hours of the procedure.
Is this the treatment for me?
I always recommend investigating the cause of excessive sweating first with your GP to rule out any underlying causes.
This treatment is unsuitable for
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Allergy to any of the ingredients in Botox
- Living with neuromuscular disorder
I will not carry out treatment if there is infection at the injection site.
If you’re considering anti-sweating treatment then get in touch today for your free consultation.
Dr Philippa Johnson Aesthetics based at The Zenya Collective, Carlisle, CA3 9EB.
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