The use of Botox to treat Excessive Sweating (hyperhidrosis)

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition in which a patient experiences excessive sweating in the face, palms, underarms, and feet. According to the area that it affects, Hyperhidrosis is categorized into facial Hyperhidrosis, palmar Hyperhidrosis, axillary Hyperhidrosis and plantar Hyperhidrosis respectively. In one form or another it affects nearly 3% of the UK population.

While the root cause of Hyperhidrosis is unknown, it has been established that it is caused when the sympathetic nervous system which stimulates sweat production, goes into overdrive and causes the sweat glands to produce more sweat than is required to keep the body cool. Some research studies seek to prove that Hyperhidrosis is a genetic condition while others link it to emotional stress of some kind.

Whatever form it takes Hyperhidrosis causes tremendous emotional social and professional embarrassment. For example, a person afflicted by the problem of severe underarm sweating is constantly worried about such side effects as stained clothes and body odor. Similarly those with palmar Hyperhidrosis will hesitate before they as much as shake hands for fear of rejection by business acquaintances or friends.

Is Hyperhidrosis always inherited?

No. However in almost 50% of recorded cases there is a family history of Hyperhidrosis. When a person is born with this condition he or she has primary Hyperhidrosis, while if Hyperhidrosis develops as a result of another medical condition such as menopause or hyperthyroidism it is called secondary Hyperhidrosis.

In the latter instance the sweating is usually spread across larger areas of the body and not localized as in the case of primary Hyperhidrosis.

How does Botox treat Hyperhidrosis?

Botox is injected superficially in a number of small injections to the area involved, and is believed to work by blocking the nerve endings to the sweat glands, therefore suppressing the sebaceous glands that produce sweat. The Botox injections will reduce around 90% of sweating from the affected area, and is a very simple and safe procedure.

Hyperhidrosis is a very popular treatment among clients working in certain industries for example, Air Hostesses, Hair Dressers and Body Builders.

How long does a Hyperhidrosis treatment with Botox take to work?

Following a Hyperhidrosis treatment with Botox, it will take up to 4 weeks for full effects as opposed to 2 weeks for facial Botox treatments. North West Aesthetics are proud to offer a free 4 week top up if required for all Hyperhidrosis treatments with Botox.

How long will a Hyperhidrosis treatment with Botox last for?

Treatment for Hyperhidrosis with Botox, will usually last between 7 to 9 months.

The majority of clients will have the treatment done at the beginning of spring to reduce sweating over the summer period.

What are the side effects of a Hyperhidrosis with Botox and what is the after-care involved?

There are very few side effects involved with a Hyperhidrosis treatment with Botox®. The procedure is a very safe and simple treatment to perform, and no pain relief is required during or after the treatment.
After the Hyperhidrosis treatment with Botox, the client is advised to not use anti-perspirant for 48 hours as the under-arm area can be sensitive.