Excessive Sweating (Palms & Underarm) Treatment
Excessive sweating can be socially awkward. Regain confidence and comfort with our effective treatments to curb sweating and body odor.
Excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis, is a condition where the body sweats more than is necessary for temperature regulation. While sweating is a natural and essential body function, excessive sweating can lead to discomfort, embarrassment, and even affect one’s quality of life. The most common areas affected are the palms and underarms, where moisture buildup can interfere with daily tasks and social interactions.
What is Excessive Sweating?
Sweating is a normal bodily function needed to regulate temperature. Some people, however, suffer from hyperhidrosis beyond what’s required for thermal regulation.
The underlying cause is the overactivity of the sweat glands. Primary hyperhidrosis causes the condition for no apparent reason. It most commonly affects the underarms, palms, soles of the feet, and face.
Excessive underarm sweating can be embarrassing, causing visible wetness and odors. It may also trigger skin irritation, discoloration and infections. Those affected may be anxious about social activities and physical contact.
Several factors that trigger increased underarm sweating include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods and medications, obesity, and hot humid climates. Heredity also plays a role, as hyperhidrosis often runs in families.
What Are Causes of Excessive Sweating
It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Genetics
Many people with hyperhidrosis have a family history of excessive sweating.
Medical Conditions
Certain conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or menopause.
Emotional Stress
Anxiety, nervousness, or stressful situations can activate the body’s sweat response.
Heat and Physical Activity
While this is natural, some people may sweat excessively even in mild temperatures or without physical exertion.
Where does Excessive Sweating Affect
The most common areas affected include:
Face and Head
Sweating on the face and scalp can be socially embarrassing and affect self-esteem.
Groin
This less commonly discussed area can cause discomfort and hygiene issues.
Back and Chest
Sweating in these areas can lead to wet patches on clothing and discomfort, especially in warm or stressful situations.
Excessive Sweating Treatment
This condition usually begins in childhood or adolescence. Without treatment, it tends to persist and affect quality of life. Thankfully, modern medical therapies like BTX and microneedling RF can provide lasting relief by controlling overactive sweat glands.
Underarm BTX
Injections of botulinum toxin (BTX) temporarily block the nerve signals to sweat glands in the armpits. This dramatically reduces underarm sweating for 6-9 months.
Morpheus 8 or Secret RF uses thermal radiofrequency (RF) energy delivered via microneedling to heat and destroy underarm sweat glands. This provides lasting sweat reduction with minimal downtime.
FAQ For Excessive Sweating Treatment
What's the best treatment for excessive underarm sweating?
The two leading options are BTX injections or microneedling RF. BTX temporarily blocks sweat signals for 6-9 months. Secret RF destroys glands more permanently but requires 3-5 sessions.
Are underarm sweating treatments permanent?
Unfortunately, no treatment eliminates sweating 100% permanently. Microneedling RF can provide 1-2 years reduction before glands regenerate. BTX lasts 6-9 months.
Are the treatments painful?
BTX injections involve minimal discomfort as the treatment area will be iced before starting. Microneedling RF involves some pins and needles sensation during the procedure.
How many sessions are needed?
BTX requires repeat sessions every 6-9 months. For microneedling RF, most patients need 3-5 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal long-term sweat reduction.