Don’t Sweat It: Botox as a Remedy for Hyperhidrosis

Sweating, in itself, is a completely normal bodily function and is necessary for the body to stay cool. But, if you’re perspiring in excess of what the body requires to regulate your temperature, you may be experiencing hyperhidrosis.

The latest figures from the Archives of Dermatological Research reveals that hyperhidrosis is prevalent in about 4.8 percent or 15.3 million people in the U.S. While this condition isn’t particularly life-threatening, it can be embarrassing enough and may hinder your normal activities, especially because regular deodorants and antiperspirants may not be effective against hyperhidrosis.

But, did you know that Botox, the popular wrinkle-diminishing, age-defying cosmetic treatment, can control your hyperhidrosis problem, too?

What Does Botox Do?

Botox is a neurotoxic protein from the same toxin that causes botulism, a kind of food poisoning. Don’t worry, though. A Botox injection done by a medical professional won’t result in poisoning. It’s a completely safe, FDA-approved process.

Like other injectable muscle relaxers, Botox is typically used to stop the muscles from contracting. Repeated muscle contraction can create creases on the skin’s surface that result in wrinkles. But, once the muscles are relaxed, the skin remains smooth and youthful-looking.

How Does Botox Stop Hyperhidrosis in the Underarms?

In 2007, the U.S. FDA approved the use of Botox for the treatment of severe axillary hyperhidrosis or underarm sweating. To do this, a licensed medical professional injects Botox into each armpit, in units ow amounts dependent on each client and their needs. The more units of Botox injected, the longer its drying effects last.

Botox stops your excessive sweating by blocking the nerves that activate the sweat glands. Normally, the nervous system is responsible for activating your sweat glands when your body temperature rises. In people with hyperhidrosis, the nerves in this system are overactive. Botox injections paralyze these overactive nerves so they can’t signal your sweat glands to release sweat.

The effects of the Botox injection can be observed within a few days to a week and usually last up to six months. Of course, the only area that stops sweating profusely is the one where the Botox was injected. You may still experience hyperhidrosis on your palms, head, back, and other parts of your body.

Why Should You Consider Botox for Hyperhidrosis?

While it’s nice to be rid of typical underarm sweat, especially in the summer, using Botox for hyperhidrosis goes beyond that.

People who experience symptoms of this condition may feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, and anxious. Your career choices, personal relationships, and self-image may be negatively affected. This condition may mess with your emotional well-being, too. Getting Botox to stop hyperhidrosis is an effective solution that’s painless and low maintenance.

For a reliable Botox injection, whether it be for cosmetic purposes or to address hyperhidrosis, turn to Vargas Face and Skin. We offer several treatments and solutions for some of the most prevalent skin and body issues among men and women.

Contact  Vargas Face and Skin Center today to learn more about our procedures.