Sweating and Botox
Botox and excessive sweating
Sweating is the production of fluids secreted by the sweat glands. It is considered a normal phenomenon but can be the source of very significant social and relationship problems when it becomes excessive (which is known medically as hyperhidrosis). Unpleasant odors, marks on clothing, halos, discomfort … a revolutionary and very effective treatment is now available to counteract these nuisances and excessive sweating in the armpits: botulinum toxin (Botox) injections.
What are the causes of sweating?
The most common causes of excessive sweat production are:
- overweight
- stress
- heredity
- intense physical activity
- hormonal problems
- unsuitable clothing
- high temperatures
- fever
Excessive sweating is known as hyperhidrosis.
Why and how do we sweat?
Sweating is a natural phenomenon that helps the body to thermoregulate. In order for the body to keep its equilibrium temperature at 37 ° C, the skin is equipped with thermal receptors which will trigger, if necessary, the production of sweat in the sweat glands and allow the evaporation of excess heat. 75% of the regulation takes place at the level of the limbs and the torso, the armpits represent only a very small part of the thermoregulation but, nevertheless, the most debilitating in certain cases. On average, one liter of sweat evaporates every day from our bodies.
How can excessive sweating be combated?
Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections represent a revolutionary solution in combating the phenomenon of excessive sweating in the armpits..
How do the Botox injections work?
Via an anticholinergic mechanism, botulinum toxin blocks the production of sweat by preventing its secretion in the sweat glands.
Is it dangerous?
No, not if the injections are made by a surgeon who is used to the treatment. The thermoregulation of the body is not altered because the armpits represent only a very small part of sweat production. It is only necessary to respect the classic contraindications of botulinum toxin which are pregnancy, taking anticoagulants or certain antibiotics and myasthenia gravis. Sometimes (in less than 1% of cases) mild and transient muscle weakness may be felt in the shoulders and arms for the first few days afterwards, as well as fatigue and a headache lasting for 24 to 48 hours, but this is not serious.
Where and how do the injections take place?
The injections are performed in the office and there is no need to fast or epilate beforehand, however do not take aspirin or blood thinners in the days immediately preceding the session. After disinfection of the skin, 4 to 12 injections of 2 to 4 IU of Botox are made by armpit. The session lasts on average for 15 minutes. It is not a painful procedure and does not require anesthesia, normal activities can be resumed immediately afterwards.
When will the effects be felt?
Usually after 7 to 10 days.
What are the effects of the injections?
On average, sweating will be reduced by 75 to 90%. It will generally no longer be necessary to put on deodorant, the halos under the arms will disappear, and odors should be almost nonexistent.
Does it work for everyone?
No, unfortunately not, there is an average of 2 to 3% of patients for whom the injections have no effect.
How long do the effects last?
From 4 to 9 months (on average 6 months) depending on the amount of sweat produced and, therefore, the degree of hyperhidrosis.
How much do the injections cost?
Botox injections in the armpits cost an average of 500 euros for both sides.