Zehn Skin and Health

Do you dread summer because of excessive sweating? Does hyperhidrosis – the medical term for overactive sweating – impact your daily life, making you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable? If so, you’re not alone. Millions struggle with hyperhidrosis, but effective treatments are available. One such option, gaining increasing recognition, is Botulinum toxin type A, commonly known as Botox. While famous for wrinkle reduction, Botox is also a powerful tool in managing excessive sweat, particularly in the armpits (axillae), hands (palms), and feet (soles).

Mean DLQI for hyperhidrosis relative to other skin conditions. *DLQI: Dermatology Life Quality Index. Swartling et al. Botulinum A toxin improves life quality in severe primary focal hyperhidrosis

How Does Botox Stop Sweat?

Botox works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals sweat glands to become active. When injected into areas affected by hyperhidrosis, Botox essentially puts sweat glands into “sleep mode,” significantly reducing sweat production in the treated region. The effects are not permanent, typically lasting for several months, after which repeat treatments can maintain dryness.

Botox for Underarm Dryness: A Proven Solution

Excessive underarm sweating can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Fortunately, Botox is a well-established and highly effective treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis. Clinical trials have consistently demonstrated its success:

• Significant Sweat Reduction: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial published in Naumann et al showed that Botox injections led to a dramatic reduction in underarm sweating within just one week, with benefits lasting for at least 16 weeks. Patients in this study also reported high satisfaction with the treatment. Botulinum toxin type A in treatment of bilateral primary axillary hyperhidrosis: randomised, parallel group, double blind, placebo controlled trial – PubMed Central

Effect on sweat production of botulinum toxin type A versus placebo. P < .001 versus placebo. Naumann et al.

• Long-Term Effectiveness: Another study, featured in MDPI, followed patients receiving Botox for axillary hyperhidrosis over a year. The results were compelling, showing sustained reductions in sweat and significant improvements in patients’ quality of life, including their psychological well-being and social interactions. Assessing Botulinum Toxin Effectiveness and Quality of Life in Axillary Hyperhidrosis: A One-Year Prospective Study – MDPI

• Established Treatment: An amazing, comprehensive review by Lowe et al summarizing the clinical development of Botox for hyperhidrosis confirms its efficacy in reducing axillary sweat and enhancing quality of life. The review highlights the rapid onset and long-lasting effects of Botox for underarm sweating, with a good safety profile. Treatment of hyperhidrosis with Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA): Development, insights, and impact – PMC – PubMed Central  

Dry Hands and Feet are Possible with Botox

While often associated with underarm sweating, hyperhidrosis can severely impact the hands and feet, making everyday tasks challenging and causing significant distress. Botox offers hope for these conditions too:

• Effective for Palms and Soles: Multiple studies have highlighted Botox as an effective treatment for palmar hyperhidrosis (excessive hand sweating) and plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweating). Botox provides longer-lasting relief than topical treatments and is generally well-received by patients.

Weinberg et al. Botulinum Neurotoxin Treatment of Palmar and Plantar Hyperhidrosis

• Recognized Treatment Option: Aetna’s clinical policy bulletin on hyperhidrosis lists Botox as a viable treatment for primary hyperhidrosis affecting the palms, underarms, and soles when non-surgical options haven’t provided sufficient relief. Hyperhydrosis – Medical Clinical Policy Bulletins – Aetna. That being said, many insurance agencies will deny botulism toxin treatment for hyperhidrosis, particularly for the palms and soles. If this occurs, speak with your healthcare provider and appeal the denial. Using evidence (such as the aforementioned studies) can help your team advocate for treatment and its positive impact on your physical and mental well-being.

Safe and Effective Relief

Botox injections for hyperhidrosis are generally considered safe and effective when administered by a qualified healthcare professional. The studies cited above, and many others, demonstrate a favorable safety profile with manageable and temporary side effects at the injection site.

Is Botox Right for You?

If you are struggling with excessive sweating in your armpits, hands, or feet, Botox may be a game-changing treatment option. It offers targeted, effective, and relatively long-lasting relief, allowing you to regain confidence and comfort in your daily activities.The next step is to consult with a dermatologist or other healthcare provider experienced in hyperhidrosis treatment. They can assess your specific condition, discuss the benefits and risks of Botox, and determine if it’s the right approach for you. Don’t let excessive sweating control your life – explore the possibilities with Botox and take the first step towards dryness and confidence!