Excessive Sweating Treatment

Results typically last 4–6 months. With regular treatments, some clients find the duration extends over time.

The needles used are extremely fine and most clients experience minimal discomfort. A topical numbing cream can be applied if required.

Botulinum toxin for hyperhidrosis is a clinically tested, medically approved treatment with an excellent safety record when administered by qualified practitioners.

Sweat glands are activated by acetylcholine — a neurotransmitter released by nerves that connect to each gland. Botulinum toxin (the same active molecule used in cosmetic anti-wrinkle injections) blocks the release of acetylcholine at the nerve endings near the sweat glands. With the signal blocked, the glands in the treated area significantly reduce sweat production. The effect is local — only the injected area is affected; sweating elsewhere on the body continues normally, which is important because sweating is a vital function for body temperature regulation.

The most common areas treated are: underarms (the most-requested and best-studied indication), palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and the scalp/hairline for facial sweating. Some patients also have treatment for groin sweating. Other body areas are technically possible but require careful clinical assessment. The underarms are the easiest to treat and have the highest success rates. Palms and soles are more involved because the injection sites are more numerous and the skin is thicker and more sensitive.

The starch-iodine test (Minor's test) is a clinical method to map exactly where you sweat most actively, ensuring precise injection placement. Iodine solution is applied to the treatment area and allowed to dry; then dry starch powder is sprinkled on. Where sweat emerges, the starch + iodine + sweat reaction creates dark purple spots — making active sweat glands visible. Your practitioner uses this map to inject precisely where the sweating is heaviest. This is particularly useful for axillary (underarm) treatment because sweating is rarely uniform across the entire armpit.

Sweating reduction begins within 2–7 days of treatment. Full effect is established by approximately 2 weeks post-injection. Most patients experience the most dramatic reduction in sweating between weeks 2 and 16, with gradual return of sweating typically starting around month 4–6 as the botulinum toxin effect wears off. Once you notice sweating returning to a level that affects your daily life, you can book your maintenance treatment — most patients top up every 6–9 months.

Hyperhidrosis treatment uses substantially more botulinum toxin than cosmetic injections — typically 50–100 units per underarm (a cosmetic forehead might use 12–20 units total). This higher dose is what makes the treatment cost more than a routine cosmetic appointment. The good news is the duration is also longer (6–9 months vs 3–4 months for cosmetic). Your consultation will quote the per-session cost upfront, including the specific number of units expected for your area.