Trusted Botox Treatment for Hyperhidrosis in Tarzana

HOW DOES BOTOX DECREASE SWEATING?

Botox became FDA-approved in 2004 for the treatment of severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis, meaning excessive sweating of the underarms. It can also be used for excessive sweating of the hands, feet, and face/scalp. Botox for hyperhidrosis is a natural, purified protein with the ability to temporarily block the secretion of the chemical that is responsible for “turning on” the body’s sweat glands. By blocking, or interrupting, this chemical messenger, Botox “turns off” sweating at the area where it has been injected. Botox injections are very shallow, meaning that the medicine is injected just below the surface of the skin, where it remains. Learn more about Botox for excessive sweating.

Treating excessive sweating of the armpits, hands, feet, head and face (craniofacial), and other relatively small body areas (like under the breasts) with Botox is safe and effective. When used to treat underarm excessive sweating, Botox has been shown to result in an 82–87% decrease in sweating. Results start to be noticeable approximately 2 to 4 days after treatment, with full effects usually noted within 2 weeks. Dryness typically lasts about 6 months, though some studies show results lasting as long as 14 months. Published research has demonstrated that repeated Botox treatments are safe and effective for hyperhidrosis and consistently result in meaningful, long-lasting improvements in symptoms, daily functioning, and overall quality of life.

While sweating is an essential body function for temperature control, localized body areas house only a small percentage of the body’s sweat glands. For example, the underarms contain less than 2% of the body’s sweat glands. Temporarily stopping sweat gland activity in these areas therefore has minimal impact on overall thermoregulation.

In cases of palmar (hand) excessive sweating, studies show Botox to be 80–90% effective. Repeat injections are typically needed after about 6 months. Botox treatment for palmar sweating may cause temporary pain or weakness in the hands.

Botox injections are also effective for excessive sweating of the head and face, though the injection technique requires expertise. Patients are advised to seek a board-certified dermatologist for treatment. A potential side effect of Botox injections in facial areas is temporary asymmetry, particularly of the forehead, which can occur if Botox diffuses into nearby facial muscles. This effect is temporary and can be corrected if needed with additional injections.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Botox injections for hyperhidrosis are administered in a physician’s office and require relatively little time. Our board-certified dermatologists at Castle Dermatology Institute can inject both underarms in less than 10 minutes. The procedure does not require restrictions on work or leisure activities, aside from avoiding intense exercise or sauna use on the day of treatment. Prior to underarm injections, patients are advised not to shave the area for three to four days.

Before treatment, numbing cream or ice may be applied to improve comfort. During the procedure, a very fine needle is used to inject small amounts of Botox just beneath the skin in a grid-like pattern, typically every 1 to 2 centimeters. The number of injections depends on the size of the area being treated and the physician’s assessment.

After receiving Botox injections for focal hyperhidrosis, patients are encouraged to follow up with their healthcare provider within 1 to 2 weeks. This follow-up visit allows the physician to assess results, perform touch-ups if necessary, and ensure the treatment has achieved optimal effectiveness. Patients seeking Botox treatment for excessive sweating in Tarzana can visit our clinic.

You may also contact us for our other cosmetic dermatology procedures and medical dermatology services for comprehensive care.

 

FAQs

1. How long does Botox for excessive sweating last?
   Results typically last about six months, though some patients experience relief for up to a year or longer.
2. When will I notice results after treatment?
   Most patients begin to see improvement within 2 to 4 days, with full results appearing within two weeks.
3. Is Botox for hyperhidrosis safe?
   Yes. Botox is FDA-approved for underarm hyperhidrosis and has been extensively studied for safety and effectiveness.
4. Does the treatment hurt?
   Discomfort is minimal. Numbing cream or ice can be used to improve comfort during injections.
5. Can Botox treat sweating in areas other than the underarms?
   Yes. Botox can be used to treat excessive sweating of the hands, feet, scalp, face, and other localized areas.