Hyperhidrosis Treatment

Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that goes well beyond what the body needs to cool itself. It can affect specific areas such as the underarms, hands, feet or face (primary hyperhidrosis) or be related to another medical condition or medication (secondary hyperhidrosis). It can be distressing day to day, which is why effective treatments are sought.

A series of small, shallow injections places botulinum toxin into the skin of the affected area, where it temporarily blocks the nerve signals that switch on the sweat glands. With those signals interrupted, sweating in the treated area is markedly reduced for several months. It treats the symptom rather than curing the underlying tendency.

The underarms are the most commonly treated area and tend to respond most reliably. Botulinum toxin may also be used for excessive sweating of the hands, feet or face, though these areas can be more sensitive and results vary. The appropriate area and approach are confirmed at your assessment.

No. Treatment may significantly reduce sweating in the treated area for several months, but it does not cure the underlying tendency to sweat, which returns as the effect wears off. It is best thought of as effective, repeatable symptom relief rather than a permanent solution.

A reduction in sweating is often noticeable from around five days, with the fuller effect by about two weeks. We recommend a follow-up at two weeks so we can check the result and top up any missed spots to ensure you get the full benefit.

The benefit often lasts around four to six months as the treated nerves gradually recover, after which treatment can be repeated. Duration varies from person to person, and some people find they can go a little longer between treatments over time.

Most people tolerate it well, and very fine needles are used. The underarms are generally comfortable; more sensitive areas such as the hands or feet may benefit from topical anaesthetic or cooling, which we can use to keep treatment comfortable.

Downtime is minimal — most people return to work straight after treatment. Mild redness or small bruising at the injection sites can occur and settles quickly. We advise avoiding heavy exercise, saunas and applying antiperspirant to the area for the rest of the day.

Botulinum toxin has been used safely in medicine for many years and is generally well tolerated for hyperhidrosis. As a prescription medicine, it should only be given after a medical assessment by a qualified practitioner — particularly because excessive sweating can sometimes be secondary to another condition. Dr Nina will discuss any less common risks at your consultation.

Side effects are usually minor and temporary: mild redness, small bruising or tenderness at the injection sites. When the hands are treated, a temporary, mild weakness of grip can occasionally occur and settles as the effect wears off. Some people notice a small, temporary increase in sweating elsewhere.

Occasionally people notice a small, temporary increase in sweating in another area as the body compensates. This is usually minor. If it troubles you, mention it at your follow-up so Dr Nina can advise on the best approach for you.

Primary hyperhidrosis has no underlying medical cause and often affects specific areas such as the underarms, hands or feet. Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by another condition or medication. Distinguishing the two matters, because secondary sweating may need that underlying cause addressed — which is part of the assessment.

Treatment reduces sweating only in the specific area injected, leaving the rest of your body to regulate temperature normally. Treating a focal area such as the underarms does not impair your overall ability to cool down. Dr Nina will explain this in the context of your individual treatment.

Hyperhidrosis treatment at Facial Sculpting is from £760 per session. The exact plan, including which area is treated and follow-up, is confirmed after your medical assessment.

Yes. Because botulinum toxin is a prescription medicine and excessive sweating can sometimes have an underlying cause, a consultation and medical assessment are required to review your history and the pattern of your sweating, confirm suitability, discuss realistic outcomes, and agree your plan and price.