It’s summer’s cruellest catch 22: just as silk shirts, camis and dresses come back in style, a heat wave dashes our sartorial dreams by sending temperatures sky-high. We all know sweat and silk aren’t a match made in heaven, just like sweat and… well, any fabric really. But how might Botox (yes, Botox) help to stop sweating? Here’s what you need to know…
How does Botox for sweating work?
Picture the scene: you dash out of the office for lunch, looking and feeling pulled-together, but by the time you make it back to your desk, sweat stains have appeared on your clothes. Even on your most stylish days, sweat will ruin your suit, your dress or your smartest shirt. And it’s not just a fashion bugbear – excess sweating can feel ultra-uncomfortable too.
This isn’t only a summer issue. Hyperhidrosis, which results in year-round excess sweating, is a common condition that affects various parts of the body, from hands and feet to underarms and shoulder blades. The good news is, those who are struggling to manage sweat have an unexpected ally on their side. Botox – usually used as an anti-wrinkle injection – can keep that excess moisture at bay.
But, how exactly? As a wrinkle-reducer, Botox works by blocking certain nerve signals that cause your muscles to contract. Now, experts have realised that it can also block the nerve signals responsible for sweating. It inhibits the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine which, when it’s active, binds to your sweat glands and causes you to perspire.
How long does Botox for sweating last?
Botox won’t stop sweating forever, but the effects are impressively long-lasting. You can expect the results to last for around six to 12 months, depending on the individual.
Where can Botox be injected to reduce sweat?
You can have Botox in most areas where sweat is common. Both men and women have experienced remarkable results from undergoing the treatment, whether they have it injected underneath their arms, in the palms of their hands or on the soles of their feet. It can also be targeted in the top of the forehead, if you’re prone to sweat there. Bonus: an extra sprinkling in this area will also reduce frown lines, so you’ll look more refreshed.
Is Botox in the armpits painful?
No, Botox for sweating isn’t painful – even in the armpits – although you may experience some minor discomfort. If you’re worried about how your treatment will feel, your Mallucci expert can apply a numbing cream beforehand, so you have a completely painless experience.
How long will my appointment last?
Expect your appointment to be quick. You can choose to have the injection with or without numbing cream. With the cream, it takes up to half an hour, but without, you’ll be done in five to ten minutes. Talk to your Mallucci practitioner about your tolerance levels for discomfort, and they will be able to advise on the best approach for you.
Do I have to shave my armpits for Botox?
If you’ve decided to have Botox in your armpits, you’ll need to put the razor down pre-treatment. We advise you not to shave for two to three days before your appointment, as using a razor on the area can make the skin extra sensitive. To prevent bruising, you may also want to avoid taking blood thinners (including aspirin) in the days leading up to treatment.
Can Botox help with menopause sweating?
Hot flushes are one of the most uncomfortable side effects of menopause, and with that surge in heat often comes sweating. The good news is, Botox can help. Just as it treats hyperhidrosis, it can also reduce sweating associated with menopause. So, while you may still get hot flushes, they can be less intense post-treatment and you won’t notice as much perspiration. It’s also thought Botox may ease tension headaches – another common side effect of menopause – by relaxing your muscles when stress and anxiety levels are high.
Does underarm Botox get rid of smell?
Yes. By reducing sweating, Botox can also address any odours, leaving you feeling fresher and more confident, even in soaring temperatures. However, Botox may not banish smells entirely, just as it may not put a complete stop to sweating. But you should find odours are greatly reduced, if not eliminated, after your treatment.
Can I wear deodorant after Botox?
Considering Botox in your armpits? Then the answer is, yes, you can wear deodorant afterwards, but we recommend you wait two to three days before applying any. Keep the area clean in this time, taking tepid showers only (no hot water!) so as not to irritate your skin. You should also skip swimming for 24 hours post-treatment to give your skin time to adjust.
How soon will I notice the results?
Very soon! After the injection (or injections, if you’re targeting multiple areas), you can expect to see results within two to seven days. Optimal results occur two weeks after you’ve booked in for your treatment, and will last around 6-12 months. That’s at least half a year of zero-stress dressing through summer and beyond.
Want to know more about Botox for sweating? Reach out to us on 0203 915 7400 or request a call back via our contact form.
Up next: Discover how to tackle tech neck with our sculpting and refining treatments. Plus, explore our line-up of tweakments for a subtle, skin-smoothing refresh.
