Sweaty Pits? Consider Botox (Seriously!)

Botox has gotten a bad rap as just an aging skin treatment for Hollywood starlets trying to fight the passage of time. And while this is certainly a popular use for it (the average Botox patient in Canada is between 40 and 59 years old), it is by no means the only use. Another lesser-known treatment is using Botox for hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating.

Hyperhidrosis can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing condition. People with hyperhidrosis may find themselves uncomfortable in social situations, afraid that people will notice the sweat stains on their clothing. They may try to avoid raising their arms in normal situations, like dancing. They may even hesitate to buy new clothes, afraid they’ll be ruined by sweat stains.

Everybody sweats, but hyperhidrosis takes it to a new level. People suffering from hyperhidrosis sweat excessively all the time, not just as a result of physical exertion or warm weather. They have often tried every antiperspirant on the market, to no avail. In this case, Botox is a treatment option they can consider.

A Botox injection to the affected area temporarily blocks the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. When the sweat glands don’t receive chemical signals, the severe sweating stops. About 15 injections are made into the underarm area, and the entire procedure only takes about 10-15 minutes. While this is not a permanent solution, the effect does usually last for about six months.

Hyperhidrosis affects people of all ages, both men and women. Sadly, people with severe sweating often don’t seek treatment, because they don’t realize their sweating is a medical condition that can be treated. If you are experiencing excessive sweating, and have exhausted all the usual options, check with your dermatologist to see if a Botox treatment might work for you.