What Is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating beyond what is necessary for normal temperature regulation.

It commonly affects:

• Underarms (Axillary Hyperhidrosis)
• Palms
• Soles of the feet
• Forehead
• Scalp
• Face

Symptoms may include:

• Clothing soaked with sweat
• Visible sweat dripping
• Difficulty shaking hands
• Constant foot moisture
• Frequent clothing changes
• Social embarrassment
• Reduced confidence

Primary focal hyperhidrosis often begins during childhood or adolescence and is not caused by an underlying medical condition.

How Hyperhidrosis Botox Works

Botulinum toxin type A temporarily blocks the release of acetylcholine, the chemical messenger that activates sweat glands.

Treatment may help:

• Significantly reduce sweat production
• Improve daily comfort
• Reduce clothing stains
• Improve confidence
• Decrease body odor associated with sweating
• Improve quality of life

The sweat glands remain present but receive fewer nerve signals to produce sweat. Effects gradually wear off as nerve endings regenerate, making repeat treatments necessary.

Areas That Can Be Treated

Botox may be used for excessive sweating of:

• Underarms
• Palms
• Soles
• Forehead
• Scalp
• Nose
• Upper lip

The underarms remain the most commonly treated area and have the strongest evidence supporting treatment.

Benefits of Hyperhidrosis Botox

Potential benefits include:

• Significant sweat reduction
• Improved confidence
• Reduced body odor
• Freedom to wear lighter clothing
• Improved social comfort
• Quick outpatient treatment
• Minimal downtime

Botox vs Other Hyperhidrosis Treatments

Botox

Often recommended for:

• Moderate to severe localized sweating
• Underarm hyperhidrosis
• Patients who have not responded to prescription antiperspirants
• Long-lasting sweat reduction

Other Treatments

Depending on the affected area, dermatologists may also recommend:

• Prescription antiperspirants
• Oral medications
• Iontophoresis (especially for hands and feet)
• Microwave or energy-based sweat gland treatments
• Surgical treatment (selected severe cases)

The best treatment depends on the location of sweating, symptom severity, previous treatments, and patient preference.

Combination Treatments

Hyperhidrosis treatment may be combined with:

• Prescription Antiperspirants
• Iontophoresis
• Oral Anticholinergic Medication
• Medical Evaluation for Secondary Hyperhidrosis
• Lifestyle Counseling

What Happens During Treatment?

Treatment generally includes:

• Dermatology consultation
• Assessment of sweating pattern
• Cleansing of the treatment area
• Multiple small Botox injections
• Aftercare instructions

Most appointments take approximately 20–30 minutes.

Recovery After Treatment

Recovery is minimal.

Temporary effects may include:

• Mild redness
• Small injection marks
• Mild tenderness
• Temporary bruising

Most patients return to work and normal daily activities immediately after treatment.

Results Timeline

Most patients begin noticing improvement within 2–7 days, with maximum results developing after approximately 2 weeks.

Results typically last:

• Underarms: approximately 4–8 months
• Palms and soles: often 3–6 months
• Scalp and face: duration varies depending on the individual

Repeat treatment is usually performed as sweating gradually returns.

How Long Do Results Last?

Botox does not permanently stop sweating. As nerve endings regenerate, sweat production gradually returns. Most patients repeat treatment one or two times per year for the underarms, while some areas may require more frequent maintenance.

Estimated Cost in Seoul

Treatment costs vary depending on:

• Treatment area
• Number of Botox units required
• Severity of sweating
• Number of treatment areas
• Follow-up treatments

A personalized treatment plan and quotation are provided following consultation.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Hyperhidrosis Botox may be appropriate for individuals who:

• Have excessive underarm sweating
• Have sweaty palms or feet
• Have scalp or facial sweating
• Have not improved with prescription antiperspirants
• Want a non-surgical treatment
• Want longer-lasting sweat reduction

Frequently Asked Questions

How effective is Botox for excessive sweating?

Botox is highly effective for localized hyperhidrosis, particularly underarm sweating, with many patients experiencing a significant reduction in sweat production for several months.

How long does Hyperhidrosis Botox last?

Most underarm treatments last approximately 4–8 months, while treatment duration for the hands, feet, and scalp varies between individuals.

Is Hyperhidrosis Botox painful?

The procedure involves multiple small injections. Most patients tolerate treatment well, and topical numbing cream or ice may be used to improve comfort, especially for the palms and soles.

Will I stop sweating completely?

The goal is to significantly reduce excessive sweating rather than eliminate all normal sweating. Most patients experience a major improvement in daily comfort while maintaining normal temperature regulation.

Is Hyperhidrosis Botox safe?

Botulinum toxin has been widely studied and is considered a safe treatment for appropriately selected patients when administered by qualified medical professionals. Temporary injection-site discomfort is the most common side effect.

Can Hyperhidrosis Botox be repeated?

Yes. Treatment can be safely repeated as sweating gradually returns, and many patients undergo maintenance sessions once or twice each year.

Is Hyperhidrosis Botox available for international patients in Seoul?

Yes. Dermatology clinics in Hongdae and Seoul provide personalized Hyperhidrosis Botox treatment and follow-up care for international patients.