FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
There are two main types of hyperhidrosis: primary and secondary.
Primary hyperhidrosis: Also known as focal hyperhidrosis, this affects specific areas of the body such as the armpits, palms, soles of the feet, and face. It usually begins in adolescence, is not caused by an underlying medical condition, and can be hereditary.
Secondary hyperhidrosis: This type is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication and can affect the entire body or be localized. Common causes include menopause, thyroid disorders, diabetes, certain medications, and infections. Treatment usually means addressing the underlying cause.
Yes. Botox is FDA-approved and considered safe and effective for treating hyperhidrosis. It works by blocking the signals that stimulate sweat glands, reducing sweating in the treated area.
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, including temporary pain, redness, swelling at the injection site, bruising, or numbness. Rarely, more serious side effects such as allergic reactions or muscle weakness can occur. When administered by a trained, licensed professional, Botox is generally safe and well tolerated.
Ideal candidates for Botox for hyperhidrosis are people dealing with excessive underarm sweating, especially those who have already tried non-invasive, topical options like prescription antiperspirants without success.
Botox is not recommended for anyone with a history of allergic reactions to the toxin or its components. Good candidates are in good overall health and have realistic expectations, since this is a temporary solution that typically needs to be repeated every few months.
Pain tolerance varies, but most people report only minimal discomfort. A topical anesthetic is often applied before the injections, and the needle used is small, so most people describe a mild pinch at most. The procedure is quick and generally well tolerated.
Botox for underarm sweating has minimal downtime, but a few things help it settle properly: skip strenuous exercise, hot showers, saunas, and alcohol for 24 hours; hold off on deodorant or antiperspirant for 24 hours; avoid touching or shaving the treated area for 24 hours; ask your provider whether you should avoid blood-thinning medications like aspirin or ibuprofen before and after treatment.
Botox for underarm sweating is generally safe when given by a qualified professional, but like any procedure, it carries some risk.
Mild, common side effects that usually resolve in a few days: pain, redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site; headache; temporary flu-like symptoms.
Less common: compensatory sweating elsewhere (like your back or chest), skin irritation, or temporary muscle weakness near the injection site.
Rare but serious: allergic reaction, difficulty breathing or swallowing, widespread muscle weakness, vision changes, or loss of bladder control. These need immediate medical attention.
Choosing a qualified injector with real experience treating hyperhidrosis specifically, not just cosmetic Botox, is the biggest factor in minimizing risk.
Insurance may cover Botox for hyperhidrosis when it is documented as a medical condition and conservative treatments have failed. Coverage varies widely and often requires prior authorization. Aesthetics MedSpa does not bill insurance directly, but we offer flexible payment plans through Cherry and CareCredit to help make treatment more accessible.