You're considering getting Botox in your – where? Okay, so you know that Botox is an easy option to smooth those little lines and creases that form on your forehead. But, that's not its only use. More than 220 million people suffer from hyperhidrosis (that means excessive sweating), according to the International Hyperhidrosis Society. In some cases antiperspirants are all that it takes to keep those pits under control. But when that doesn't work, Botox is a treatment option. That's right. The injectable treatment for your face can also be used in your armpits. If you're considering this option, check out these common treatment questions.
How long have patients been using Botox in their armpits?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the injectable for treatment of "severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis" (in simple terms – more than average sweating of the armpits) back in 2004.
Can teenagers get Botox for sweating?
The medication is only approved for medical use in patients 18 and over. That means your 13-year-old will have to try other options or wait a few years until she's old enough for a doctor to prescribe the injectable.
How effective is it?
Getting the armpit injection is very effective. Between 82 and 87 percent of patients who use it see a marked decrease in sweating, notes the International Hyperhidrosis Society. You can typically expect to notice results anywhere from two to four days after the injection. That said, it may take up to two weeks to feel the full effect.
How long does it last?
Botox is not a one time and you're done treatment. It doesn't 'cure' excess sweating, and it isn't permanent. The length of time that you stay dry may vary. Some people have dryness for four months, while others notice effects for up to 14 months post-injection.
Who can administer Botox?
When used for underarm sweating, only a qualified doctor can administer the injection. Doctors who give Botox injections have specialized training and knowledge of both the medication and the underlying medical issue. You can typically get the injections done at your doctor's office.
How many injections are needed at one time?
A session usually includes several injections. Your doctor will assess the underarm area that needs treatment. Several small injections are given in that area during one session. Your doctor may ask you to come back in a few weeks for a followup. This allows the medical pro to evaluate how well it's working and decided whether you need a touch up at this point.
Getting Botox in your armpits isn't a trend or a fad. It's a real medical intervention for excessive seating. If perspiration is a problem, this injectable treatment is an easy option that can treat your issue and keep you dry.
Share29 September 2016
I was blessed with healthy, thick hair and perfect skin as a young girl. I went to college out-of-state, and I soon started to get acne and my hair started thinning. Everyone told me that it was likely due to stress, but to be honest, I loved college and found most of my first-year classes pretty easy. During my first summer home I put two-and-two together: my eating habits changed drastically at college. My mother always fed us very healthy meals, and my eating habits at college were so bad that I even ate cookies for breakfast sometimes! I found out my hair loss was due to lack of healthy vitamins in my diet and my skin problems were also caused by my poor diet. I created this blog to help other learn how their health, skin, and are all connected, and I hope you can learn a lot here!