Sweaty Underarms: How Botox & Energy-Based Devices May Help
Written By Dr Branden Seow
Sweating under the armpits is a common condition where there is an excessive production of sweat in the axillary region, also known as the underarm area. This can cause wetness, unpleasant odour, and stains on clothing, which can be embarrassing and uncomfortable.
Sweating is a natural process that helps regulate body temperature and remove toxins from the body. However, excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis can be caused by various factors, such as genetics, medical conditions, medications, or lifestyle choices.
The following are some of the most common causes of sweating under the armpit:
1. Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to excessive sweating than others, due to their genetic makeup.
2. Medical conditions: Hyperhidrosis can be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid problems, menopause, and certain infections.
3. Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants and blood pressure drugs, can cause excessive sweating as a side effect.
4. Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle choices, such as wearing tight clothing, consuming spicy foods, and drinking alcohol, can trigger excessive sweating.
Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce sweating under the armpit, ranging from simple lifestyle changes to medical treatments.
1. Antiperspirants: Antiperspirants are the first line of defence against excessive sweating. Antiperspirants are one of the most common ways to reduce underarm sweating. They work by blocking the sweat glands, preventing sweat from reaching the skin’s surface. Antiperspirants can be purchased over the counter or prescribed by a doctor for more severe cases of hyperhidrosis. It is recommended to choose antiperspirants that contain aluminium chloride, as this is the most effective ingredient in reducing underarm sweating.
2. Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen, can help reduce sweating under the armpit. Avoid wearing tight clothing that can trap moisture and increase sweat production.
3. Botox injections: Botox injections can be used to treat hyperhidrosis by blocking the signals that stimulate sweat production. This treatment is effective for several months and can significantly reduce excessive sweating.
4. Energy-based devices: There are several devices in the market that can deliver energy to the sweat glands. The energy serves to weaken the sweat glands such that they don’t become active and produce that much sweat. 2 common brands are Miradry as well as INFINI.
In today’s article, we will explore how Botox and energy-based devices can help to treat sweating underarms effectively.
BOTOX IN TREATING UNDERARM SWEATING
Botox (Botulinum toxin) injections have become a popular treatment option for reducing excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis. The injections work by blocking the chemical signals that stimulate the sweat glands, reducing the amount of sweat produced in the treated area. Botox injections for underarm sweating have been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for many individuals.
Botox works by blocking the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which is responsible for activating the sweat glands. By blocking this neurotransmitter, the sweat glands are not stimulated, and less sweat is produced in the treated area. Botox injections for underarm sweating are typically administered in a grid-like pattern, with multiple injections spaced a centimetre apart in each underarm.
Botox injections for underarm sweating have been shown to be highly effective in reducing excessive sweating. In clinical studies, up to 80% of patients who received Botox injections for underarm sweating experienced a significant reduction in sweating. The results of Botox injections for underarm sweating typically last for six to twelve months, after which the treatment can be repeated if necessary.
Botox injections for underarm sweating are generally well-tolerated, with few side effects. The most common side effect is temporary pain or discomfort at the injection site.
Benefits of Botox for Reducing Underarm Sweating:
Botox injections for underarm sweating offer several benefits over other treatment options for hyperhidrosis. These benefits include:
1. Non-surgical: Botox injections are a non-surgical treatment option for hyperhidrosis, meaning that there is no need for incisions, anesthesia, or extended recovery time.
2. Quick and convenient: Botox injections for underarm sweating can be performed in a healthcare professional’s office in as little as 15-30 minutes, making it a convenient treatment option for many individuals.
3. Long-lasting: Botox injections for underarm sweating can provide long-lasting relief from excessive sweating for up to six to twelve months, depending on the individual.
4. Safe: Botox injections for underarm sweating are generally considered safe, with few side effects.
MIRADAY AND INFINI
MiraDry is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for excessive underarm sweating. This procedure uses microwave technology to target and eliminate sweat glands in the underarm area, resulting in a significant reduction in sweating. The procedure typically takes about an hour to complete. A hand-held device is placed on the underarm area, which delivers the electromagnetic energy to the sweat glands. Patients may feel some warmth and pressure during the procedure, but discomfort is usually minimal.
INFINI is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency micro-needling to improve the appearance of skin and treat a range of skin conditions, including acne scar treatment in Singapore and excessive underarm sweating. The procedure involves the use of microneedles that deliver radiofrequency energy. INFINI can help reduce underarm sweating by targeting the sweat glands in the underarm area. The radiofrequency energy delivered by the microneedles heats up the sweat glands, which can damage or destroy them, resulting in a significant reduction in underarm sweating. INFINI is a minimally invasive procedure that requires little to no downtime, and patients can resume normal activities shortly after treatment. Multiple treatment sessions may be required to achieve the desired results.
Both MiraDry and INFINI are safe and effective treatments for excessive underarm sweating, with minimal side effects. The choice between the two treatments will depend on several factors, including the patient’s individual needs, preferences, and the severity of their underarm sweating.
While both MiraDry and INFINI are effective treatments for underarm sweating, they work in different ways and may be more suitable for different patients depending on their individual needs and preferences. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which treatment option is right for you.