Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)

Treatment for Axillary Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Underarm Sweating)

Dr Martyn King | Cosmedic Skin Clinic | Staffordshire

Axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating) is a common condition that can significantly impact confidence, comfort, and quality of life. It occurs when the sweat glands in the underarms produce more sweat than is required for normal temperature regulation.

At Cosmedic Skin Clinic, we offer a highly effective medical treatment using botulinum toxin to temporarily reduce overactivity of the sweat glands in the underarm area. This treatment is widely regarded as the gold standard for managing focal hyperhidrosis and can provide long-lasting relief for suitable patients.

Treatment is quick, minimally invasive, and does not require downtime, making it an excellent option for patients who have not responded adequately to topical antiperspirants or other conservative measures.

Summary

• Procedure time: 30 minutes
• Downtime: None
• Discomfort: Mild to moderate (multiple small injections)
• Anaesthetic: Not required
• Onset of results: 3–7 days
• Peak/final results: 2–4 weeks
• Duration: Typically 4-9 months
• Maintenance: Repeat treatments required as effects wear off

Pricing

• Both underarms: £425

💡 Final treatment suitability and pricing are confirmed following medical consultation and assessment.

How it works

Botulinum toxin works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that stimulate the eccrine sweat glands. When these signals are reduced, the glands produce significantly less sweat in the treated area.

During treatment:

• The underarm area is assessed and marked
• A series of small injections are placed just beneath the skin
• Patients can return to normal activities immediately afterwards

As the nerve signals are gradually reduced, sweat production decreases significantly, leading to improved comfort and confidence.

The effect is temporary and gradually wears off as nerve function naturally regenerates.

What areas can be treated

• Underarms (axillae)
• Forehead
• Scalp (select cases)

Am I suitable?

You may be suitable if you:

• Experience excessive underarm sweating affecting daily life
• Have not responded adequately to strong antiperspirants
• Experience social or emotional impact due to sweating
• Are in good general health

You may not be suitable if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have certain neuromuscular disorders
• Have active infection in the treatment area
• Are allergic to any components of the treatment
• Have certain medical conditions requiring specialist review

A full medical consultation is required prior to treatment.

Pre-treatment advice

Before treatment:

• Avoid shaving the underarms for 24 hours prior
• Avoid applying deodorant on the day of treatment
• Inform your clinician of any medications or medical conditions
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before treatment
• Attend with clean, dry skin

Post-treatment advice

After treatment:

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours
• Avoid hot baths, saunas, and steam rooms for 24–48 hours
• Do not rub or massage the treated area for 24 hours
• Normal washing is permitted after several hours
• Effects will gradually develop over the first week
• Patients are advised to monitor response and attend follow-up if required.

Side-effects & complications

Botulinum toxin for hyperhidrosis is generally very safe when administered by trained medical professionals.

Common (temporary):

• Mild bruising
• Temporary redness at injection sites
• Mild swelling or tenderness
• Localised discomfort

Less common:

• Compensatory sweating in other areas (rare in axillary treatment)
• Temporary weakness in nearby muscles (very rare in underarm use)
• Headache or fatigue

Rare:

• Infection
• Allergic reaction
• Asymmetry of sweat reduction
• Unexpected spread of toxin effect

Most side effects are temporary and self-limiting.

Benefits

• Significant reduction in underarm sweating
• Improved confidence and quality of life
• Reduction in sweat-related odour
• Decreased need for antiperspirants
• Long-lasting results from a single treatment
• Quick procedure with no downtime
• Can improve clothing comfort and social confidence

Advice from Dr Martyn King

Dr Martyn King, Cosmedic Skin Clinic, Staffordshire

"Excessive sweating can have a significant impact on daily life and confidence. Botulinum toxin is a highly effective treatment that works by temporarily reducing overactivity of the sweat glands. For appropriately selected patients, it can provide a dramatic improvement in symptoms and a significant enhancement in quality of life."