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Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, affects 2–3% of the population, which makes it a fairly common problem. It most often affects the hands, feet, underarms and forehead, which can be very embarrassing and negatively affect social life. With primary, genetically determined hyperhidrosis, treatment can be problematic. Standard methods such as antiperspirants, oral medication or iontophoresis may prove insufficient.
Treating hyperhidrosis with botox: how does it work?
A treatment with botulinum toxin (botox) is an effective solution for excessive sweating, giving relief for about 6–9 months after each session. Injecting botox into the chosen area blocks the nerve endings responsible for sweat secretion. Importantly, the method can be used on all the areas affected by hyperhidrosis mentioned above.
Indications for the treatment:
- Underarm sweating
- Sweaty hands
- Sweaty feet
- Facial sweating
- Sweating in the intimate area
How to prepare for the treatment?
Before a hyperhidrosis treatment there is always a detailed consultation with the practitioner, during which the Minor test is carried out. The area is painted with iodine and then dusted with starch. The areas affected by hyperhidrosis, where the botulinum toxin will be injected, turn black. This shows the practitioner precisely where to apply the product.
The treatment itself
The treatment differs slightly depending on the area:
- Face: usually performed without anaesthesia.
- Underarms: a numbing cream is applied before the treatment.
- Feet and hands: injecting these areas requires infiltration anaesthesia (e.g. lidocaine) to keep the patient comfortable.
Using a syringe, a solution of botulinum toxin type A is injected into the points marked in the Minor test. The punctures are usually made about 1 cm apart.
Results of botox treatment
The results of hyperhidrosis treatment are usually visible about a week after the session. Sweat secretion in the treated area decreases by about 87%. The result usually lasts from 3 to 8 months, and once it wears off the treatment can be safely repeated.
