In 2004, for the first time in decades, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new treatment for excessive sweating of the underarms (axillary hyperhidrosis), palms and feet. Specifically, on Monday, July 19, 2004, the FDA approved Botox treatment in Los Angeles (botulinum toxin type A) for the management of severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis in patients unable to obtain relief using antiperspirants. Botox injections in Beverly Hills have been used to treat more than 1 million patients with various conditions, including spasticity and movement disorders With FDA approval, the United States joins more than 20 other countries that have already approved the use of BOTOX for excessive sweating.
Using local injections of botulinum toxin to alleviate the symptoms of hyperhidrosis is a promising approach. Research has shown that treating the armpits, hands, feet, and face with botulinum toxin is safe and effective. In one clinical study involving 322 patients with severe underarm sweating, 81% of the patients receiving botulinum toxin injections achieved a greater than 50% reduction in sweating. And, 50% of the patients had their excessive sweating relieved for at least 201 days (nearly 7 months).
How Botox for Sweating Works
Botulinum toxin is a natural, purified protein with the ability to temporarily block the secretion of the chemical in the nervous system that is responsible for “turning on” the body’s sweat glands. By blocking, or interrupting, this chemical messenger, Botox treatment in Beverly Hills “turns off” sweating at the area where it has been injected.
The use of botulinum toxin for the treatment of hyperhidrosis is most effective when performed by a physician who has received special training and who has experience with the procedure such as Dr. Behroozan. Botulinum toxin injections can be administered in our office, require relatively little time, and do not demand any restrictions in work or leisure activity (aside from refraining from intensive exercise or the use of a sauna on the day of the injections).
During the procedure, a very fine needle is used to inject small amounts of botulinum toxin just under the skin near the sweat glands responsible for excessive perspiration. Multiple injections are given based on assessment of the area that needs to be treated. Injections into the palms or soles may be painful. To ease discomfort, Dr. Behroozan may use one or more of a number of anesthetic techniques such as pain-killing creams, nerve blocks, ice, or vibrations.
Botulinum toxin injections do not cure hyperhidrosis; your symptoms will return gradually. Follow-up injections are required to maintain dryness. These repeat injections may be necessary at intervals varying from seven to sixteen months. If you are interested in learning more about how Botox can be used to treat excessive sweating in the underarms, palms and feet, feel free to consult with our doctor at one of his Los Angeles offices in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica.
Also learn how Botox can be used to treat wrinkles.
FAQs
- What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is a condition where the body produces more sweat than necessary, often affecting the underarms, hands, feet, or face. It can occur even without heat or physical activity. - How does Botox help reduce excessive sweating?
Botox temporarily blocks the chemical signals that activate sweat glands. By interrupting this pathway, sweating in the treated area decreases significantly. - Which areas can be treated with Botox for sweating?
Common treatment sites include the underarms, palms, soles of the feet, and in some cases, the face. - Is Botox for sweating FDA-approved?
Yes. Botox is FDA-approved for treating severe underarm sweating and is widely used off-label for the hands, feet, and face. - How effective is Botox for excessive sweating?
Clinical studies show that most patients experience a 50% or greater reduction in sweating, with results lasting several months. - How long do results last?
Dryness typically lasts 7–16 months, depending on the treatment area and individual response. - Does the procedure hurt?
Underarm injections are generally well tolerated. Treating the palms or soles can be more sensitive, so numbing creams, nerve blocks, ice, or vibration techniques may be used. - Is there downtime after treatment?
No significant downtime is expected. Most patients resume normal activities immediately, except for avoiding strenuous exercise or sauna use on the same day. - How many injections will I need?
The number of injections depends on the size of the area being treated. Multiple small injections ensure even distribution and effective sweat reduction. - Does Botox cure excessive sweating?
Botox does not cure hyperhidrosis. Sweat production will slowly return over time, and maintenance treatments are needed to stay dry. - Who is a good candidate for Botox for sweating?
Anyone with excessive sweating that interferes with daily life, especially those who have not improved with clinical-strength antiperspirants, may be an excellent candidate. - Can Botox for sweating be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Some patients use medical-grade antiperspirants, prescription medications, or lifestyle measures alongside Botox for optimal results. - Where can I get Botox treatment for excessive sweating?
Dr. Behroozan offers hyperhidrosis treatment at his Beverly Hills and Santa Monica locations with expertise in advanced injection techniques. - When will I start noticing reduced sweating after Botox treatment?
Most patients notice a significant decrease in sweating within 3–7 days, with full results developing over two weeks. - Are there any risks or side effects with Botox for hyperhidrosis?
Side effects are usually mild and temporary, including slight bruising, tenderness, or swelling at injection sites. Serious complications are rare when treatment is performed by an experienced dermatologist.
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