FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
There are two main types of hyperhidrosis: primary and secondary.
- Primary hyperhidrosis: This type of hyperhidrosis is also known as focal hyperhidrosis because it affects specific areas of the body, such as the armpits, palms, soles of the feet, and face. Primary hyperhidrosis usually begins in adolescence and is not caused by an underlying medical condition. It can be hereditary and often has a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.
- Secondary hyperhidrosis: This type of hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. It can affect the entire body or be localized to specific areas. Some common causes of secondary hyperhidrosis include menopause, thyroid disorders, diabetes, certain medications, and infections. Treatment for secondary hyperhidrosis usually involves addressing the underlying medical condition or adjusting medication.
Yes, Botox is considered safe and effective for the treatment of hyperhidrosis. The product has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this specific use. Botox works by blocking the signals that stimulate sweat glands, which reduces the amount of sweating in the treated area.
Like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with Botox treatment for hyperhidrosis. These can include temporary pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, as well as bruising and numbness. Rarely, serious side effects such as allergic reactions, muscle weakness, or difficulty breathing may occur.
However, when administered by a trained and licensed medical professional, Botox is generally considered safe and well-tolerated.
Good candidates for Botox for hyperhidrosis include individuals who experience excessive underarm sweating.
Armpit Botox is typically recommended for individuals who have tried other non-invasive and topical treatments, such as prescription antiperspirants or oral medications, without success.
It’s important to note that Botox is not recommended for individuals who have a history of allergic reactions to the toxin or any of its components.
Candidates for Botox should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results of the treatment. Botox is a temporary solution for hyperhidrosis and typically lasts for several months before additional treatments are necessary.
The level of pain experienced during armpit Botox treatment for hyperhidrosis can vary depending on the individual’s pain tolerance. However, most people report minimal discomfort during the procedure.
Before the initial injections, the area may be numbed with a topical anesthetic to reduce any potential pain. The injections themselves are usually performed using a small needle, which can cause some mild discomfort or a slight pinching sensation. However, the procedure is typically quick and well-tolerated.
Overall, the botulinum toxin treatment for hyperhidrosis is considered to be relatively painless and well-tolerated.
Botox for underarm sweating is a safe treatment with minimal downtime. However, there are some things you should avoid after the treatment:
- Strenuous exercise: Avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after treatment. This will help prevent the Botox from migrating from the injection site.
- Heat: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and hot tubs for 24 hours after treatment. Heat can also cause the Botox to migrate.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for 24 hours after treatment. Alcohol can thin your blood and increase your risk of bruising.
- Deodorant and antiperspirant: Avoid using deodorant or antiperspirant for 24 hours after treatment. This will allow the Botox to settle in properly.
- Touching or rubbing the area: Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area for 24 hours after treatment. This can also cause the Botox to migrate.
- Shaving: Avoid shaving your underarms for 24 hours after treatment. Shaving can irritate the skin and increase your risk of infection.
- Blood thinners: Avoid taking blood thinners, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for a week before and after treatment. This can increase your risk of bruising.
- Swimming: Avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs for 24 hours after treatment. Chlorine and other chemicals in pools can irritate the skin and increase your risk of infection.
- Sleeping on your stomach: Avoid sleeping on your stomach for 4 hours after treatment. This can also cause the Botox to migrate.
Botox for underarm sweating is generally considered safe when administered by a qualified medical professional. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. Here’s a breakdown of what “going wrong” might entail:
Mild Side Effects
These are the most common and typically resolve on their own within a few days:
- Pain, redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
- Headache
- Temporary flu-like symptoms
Less Common Side Effects
These are less frequent but still manageable:
- Sweating compensation: You might experience sweating in other areas like your back or chest as your body tries to regulate temperature.
- Skin irritation
- Temporary muscle weakness near the injection site
Serious Side Effects (Rare):
These are extremely rare but require immediate medical attention:
- Allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
- Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking
- Muscle weakness throughout the body
- Vision problems
- Loss of bladder control
Minimizing Risks
- Choose a qualified professional: Our professionals are experienced in administering Botox injections in various parts of the body. We’ve been voted Reno’s best med spa 13 years running with good reason.
- Communicate openly: Discuss your medical history, any medications you’re taking, and your expectations.
Follow aftercare instructions: Following our recommendations like avoiding strenuous activity, heat, and certain products helps the Botox settle properly and minimizes risks.