Hyperhidrosis Treatment Options
At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, we offer treatment options to help you manage hyperhidrosis effectively. Depending on the severity of your condition and the areas affected, Dr. Cohen and his team will recommend the most appropriate hyperhidrosis solution for your needs.
Topical Treatments: Aluminum Chloride
For mild cases of hyperhidrosis, topical treatments containing aluminum chloride (the active ingredient in many clinical-strength antiperspirants) can be effective. These products work by blocking the sweat glands, reducing the amount of sweat produced in the treated area.
While you can find aluminum chloride in over-the-counter clinical deodorants, your physician may prescribe a higher-concentration formula if your sweating is more severe. These stronger treatments are applied at night to the affected areas, and they can provide noticeable relief over time.
BOTOX® for Underarm Hyperhidrosis
When excessive underarm sweating (axillary hyperhidrosis) doesn’t respond well to topical treatments, Botox injections are a highly effective, FDA-approved option. Botox works by blocking the nerve signals responsible for activating the sweat glands, significantly reducing the amount of sweat produced.
Benefits of BOTOX® for Hyperhidrosis:
- Quick results: You can start to see the effects of Botox within seven to 10 days after treatment.
- Long-lasting relief: The results typically last about eight months, giving you extended control over underarm sweating.
- Minimal downtime: Botox injections are quick, and you can return to most daily activities immediately afterward.
Botox has been a game-changer for individuals with underarm hyperhidrosis, offering them freedom from the embarrassment and discomfort of excessive sweating. If you’ve struggled with over-the-counter solutions, Botox may provide the dramatic improvement you’re looking for.
Other Treatment Options for Hyperhidrosis
While Botox is the gold standard for treating underarm hyperhidrosis, additional treatment options are available for excessive sweating in other areas of the body.
Iontophoresis
For those dealing with sweaty hands and feet, iontophoresis is a noninvasive treatment that uses electrical currents to temporarily disable the sweat glands. During treatment, the affected areas are submerged in water, and a mild electrical current is passed through the water, targeting the sweat glands. This procedure is typically done several times a week until sweating is reduced.
Prescription Medications
If topical treatments or Botox aren’t effective, oral medications may be prescribed. These medications, known as anticholinergics, work by blocking the chemical signals that trigger sweat production. However, they can cause side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision and constipation, so they are usually considered when other treatments have not been successful.