Excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis, is far more common than the condition's relative low profile might suggest. It affects an estimated 1 to 3 percent of the population significantly, with many more experiencing milder versions. For those affected, it can be a source of significant anxiety, social embarrassment and daily inconvenience, particularly in the underarm area.
What is hyperhidrosis?
Normal sweating is the body's cooling mechanism, a perfectly functional physiological process. Hyperhidrosis occurs when the sweat glands are overactive in ways that are not proportionate to temperature or activity level. People with hyperhidrosis may sweat profusely at rest, in cool environments, or without any obvious trigger.
The underarms are the most commonly affected area, but excessive sweating can also occur on the palms, feet and face.
How does botulinum toxin help?
The sweat glands are activated by chemical signals from nerve endings. Botulinum toxin blocks these chemical signals, preventing the sweat glands from receiving the instruction to produce sweat. The result is a dramatic reduction in sweating in the treated area.
The treatment involves multiple small injections across the affected area. A numbing cream is applied beforehand to make the process as comfortable as possible. The session takes around 20 to 30 minutes.
How effective is it?
Very. Most clients see an 80 to 90 percent reduction in sweating in the treated area. Results typically last six to nine months, after which the treatment can be repeated. Many clients find that over successive treatments, the intervals between treatments can lengthen as the sweat glands become progressively less active.
What about normal sweating elsewhere?
The body has millions of sweat glands, treating the underarms does not interfere with the body's overall ability to thermoregulate. You will continue to sweat normally everywhere else.
If excessive sweating is affecting your daily life, this is a genuinely life-changing treatment for many people. Read more about hyperhidrosis treatment at Tu Bella or book a consultation in Hemel Hempstead.
Treatments at Tu Bella