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Underarm Botox for Hyperhidrosis: Is It Right for You?

Are you considering underarm Botox for axillary hyperhidrosis?

Botox is one of many treatments available for excessive underarm sweating, and is gaining popularity as some celebrities advocate for its effectiveness. But does underarm Botox work for everyone, and is it the right solution for you?

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled some important information about underarm Botox for axillary hyperhidrosis, including the cost of injections, effectiveness, insurance coverage, side effects and more.

What Is Underarm Botox for Hyperhidrosis?

According to the FDA, botulinum toxin (known as Botox) can be “injected into the skin to treat the symptoms of severe underarm sweating (axillary hyperhidrosis) when medicines used on the skin (topical) do not work well enough.”

Botox was approved by the FDA in 2004 to treat excessive underarm sweating, and around 20 countries currently authorize Botox for hyperhidrosis. Most underarm botox treatments are conducted by a dermatologist — physicians who specialize in skin issues.

To treat axillary hyperhidrosis, Botox works by blocking the secretion of the chemical that activates sweat glands. During the procedure, the doctor will apply a numbing agent, then use a small needle to inject approximately 50 units of Botox into each armpit. You can immediately resume your normal routine after your treatment session.

For most individuals, underarm botox is relatively quick and painless.

Does Underarm Botox for Hyperhidrosis Work?

Medical and academic studies point to the efficacy of Botox for hyperhidrosis for most patients. A 2014 study by the Dermatologic Clinics confidently states that underarm Botox is “a safe and effective treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis”.

However, Botox does not necessarily stop sweating altogether. The Aesthetic Surgery Journal, for example, reports that patients who are “unresponsive to topical antiperspirants experience a 75% reduction in sweating when injected with botulinum toxin”.

Overall, most patients are satisfied with their Botox experience. In the previously mentioned study, patient satisfaction ranged from 66% to 100%.

How Long Do Underarm Botox Results Last?

Undergoing more rounds of injections can result in longer-lasting drying effects. However, everyone breaks down Botox differently, so the duration and effectiveness of results can still vary.

On average, results take one to two weeks to show. Patients will experience dry armpits for about three to six months after receiving Botox injections. Patients must follow up with routine treatments if they want to maintain underarm dryness.

Note that factors like exercise or stress can accelerate the body’s metabolic response to Botox, which can also cause results to fade away faster.

How Much Does Botox Cost to Treat Underarm Sweat?

Most people require 100 units of Botox (50 units per underarm), which typically costs around $1,000 total.

On top of that, account for the cost of seeing a dermatologist (around $500), bringing your total to $1,000-$1,500 or more per session.

Due to the high cost of getting Botox for sweaty armpits, we recommend exploring alternative solutions first, such as prescription-strength antiperspirants in combination with a sweat proof undershirt.

Does Insurance Cover Underarm Botox for Axillary Hyperhidrosis?

Since Botox is FDA-approved to treat excessive underarm sweating, many insurance companies are willing to look into coverage. However, most providers will cover only selective cases.

It’s important to know that coverage doesn’t always mean full reimbursement. You may have to foot some or all of the bill.

To see if you qualify for insurance coverage for Botox, review your health insurance plan first, and have your doctor submit you for approval.

To help your case and improve your chances of getting coverage, you should exhaust other options first, such as natural supplements, topical over-the-counter and prescription products or oral anticholinergics.

Who is a Good Candidate for Underarm Botox?

To get Botox injections for hyperhidrosis, you must be at least 18 years old.

Botox is only advised for severe cases of axillary hyperhidrosis that cannot be treated with topical solutions, and should be a last line of defense. As best practice, your doctor should review your health history and other treatment attempts before giving you the okay for underarm Botox.

It’s best to explore non-invasive options like sweat proof clothing or prescription antiperspirants first.

Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications should not seek Botox for hyperhidrosis. See the complete list of restrictions.

Risks and Side Effects of Botox for Axillary Hyperhidrosis

While Botox is FDA-approved, mild to more serious side effects can still occur. Although Botox is only injected in the underarms, side effects can spread to other parts of the body.

Some side effects from Botox for axillary hyperhidrosis include:

  • Problems swallowing, speaking or breathing: According to the Botox website, these effects “can be severe and result in loss of life.” Do not get Botox injections if you already experience difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing.
  • Muscle weakness or tiredness: Botox can cause muscle weakness and drowsiness, so it isn’t recommended for those with muscle or nerve conditions.
  • Vision problems: Potential vision issues include double vision, dry eyes, blurred vision, dizziness and drooping or swelling of the eyelids.
  • Allergic reactions: These include itching, rash, red itchy welts, wheezing, asthma symptoms, dizziness or feeling faint.
  • Interactions with other medicines: Using Botox with certain medications can lead to serious side effects. These include prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins and herbal products. Consult your doctor and disclose all your medications and supplements before opting for Botox for hyperhidrosis.
  • Loss of bladder control
  • Headaches and neck pain

Alternatives to Botox for Axillary Hyperhidrosis

Botox for hyperhidrosis is considered an invasive treatment with the potential for serious side effects. Fortunately, it’s not the only solution for axillary hyperhidrosis.

First, talk to your doctor about topical or less invasive solutions first, like:

  • Prescription or clinical-strength antiperspirants
  • Anti sweat wipes, such as SweatBlock or Dermira, which must be prescribed by a doctor  
  • Oral medications
  • miraDry, an electromagnetic microwave treatment that's considered a safe procedure 
  • Home remedies (see: Natural Ways to Stop Sweating) 
  • Sweat proof shirts like the Thompson Tee

The Thompson Tee is the only patented sweat proof undershirt on the market, designed to be a non-invasive solution for axillary hyperhidrosis.

At Thompson Tee, we often receive testimonials from customers who tried Botox for hyperhidrosis, or were on the brink of getting the procedure.

For some, the cost and potential risks of Botox are too high. Others who underwent the procedure experienced compensatory sweating (excessive perspiration in other areas of the body) as a side effect.

Before opting for invasive treatments like Botox, try our sweat proof undershirts for men and women, which are 100% guaranteed to prevent armpit sweat from staining your clothing and hampering your confidence. You can even pair the Thompson Tee with your favorite antiperspirant or wipe for best the defense against axillary hyperhidrosis.

Try the Thompson Tee risk-free today! 

*PLEASE NOTE: As with any medical-related issues, it's best to seek the advice from a qualified medical practitioner. The information provided is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.