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Excessive Sweating

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating beyond what the body needs to stay cool. While it’s normal to sweat during exercise, heat, or stress, people with hyperhidrosis may sweat heavily even when they’re at rest or in cool temperatures.

This condition can affect specific areas such as the underarms, hands, feet, face, or scalp, or it may occur across larger areas of the body. The excessive moisture can interfere with daily activities, cause discomfort, and sometimes lead to skin irritation or social embarrassment — but effective treatments are available.

Types of Hyperhidrosis

Primary (focal) hyperhidrosis:

This is the most common type. It usually begins in childhood or adolescence and affects specific areas like the palms, soles, underarms, or face. It’s not caused by another medical condition.

Secondary (generalized) hyperhidrosis:

This type results from an underlying medical issue (such as thyroid problems, diabetes, or menopause) or certain medications. It often causes sweating over larger areas of the body.

There are several proven options to manage hyperhidrosis, including prescription antiperspirants, medications, neurotoxin injections (such as Botox®), iontophoresis (a mild electrical treatment), and laser or surgical options for severe cases. With proper care, most patients can reduce sweating significantly and regain comfort and confidence in daily life.

At Mittal Dermatology, we offer prescription antiperspirants, medications, and neurotoxin injfections (Botox, etc.). We are also able to provide referals for iontophoresis, laser and surgical options. The use of neurotoxins is a FDA-approved treatment for excessive sweating in areas like the underarms, hands, or feet. It works by blocking the nerves that stimulate sweat glands, which helps reduce sweating for several months.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Consultation

We will review your medical history, examine the areas affected by excessive sweating, and discuss your goals and treatment options.

Preparation

The targeted area is cleaned and may be marked with a grid to ensure precise injection placement. A topical numbing cream or ice may be used to minimize discomfort.

Injection

Small amounts of neurotoxin are injected into multiple points across the treatment area using a very fine needle. Most patients feel only mild pinches or stings.

Duration

The procedure usually takes 15–45 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.

After the Procedure

You can resume normal activities immediately, but avoid rubbing the area or applying deodorant for 24 hours in the case of underarm treatment.

Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection sites may occur but typically resolves within a few hours to a couple of days.

1. Results and Duration for Neurotoxins:

  • Improvement is usually noticeable within 2 weeks.
  • The effects last about 4–6 months, and repeat treatments are required to maintain dryness.
  • The use of hyperhidrosis is highly effective, and most patients experience significant reduction in sweating, leading to improved comfort and confidence.

2. Hyperhidrosis can often be managed effectively with prescription-strength antiperspirants or oral medications. Here’s what patients can typically expect:

Prescription Antiperspirants

  • How they work: These contain higher concentrations of aluminum chloride, which blocks sweat glands temporarily.
  • Results: Most patients notice a significant reduction in sweating within 1–2 weeks of consistent use.
  • Recovery/Aftercare: There’s no downtime, and normal daily activities can continue immediately. Mild skin irritation or redness may occur but usually improves by applying moisturizers or adjusting frequency.

Oral Medications (Anticholinergics)

  • How they work: These medications reduce sweating by blocking the chemical signals that activate sweat glands.
  • Results: Improvement can be seen within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the dose and individual response.
  • Recovery/Aftercare: There is no downtime, and patients can carry on with their daily routine. Common side effects include dry mouth, dry eyes, or mild constipation, which usually lessen over time or with dose adjustments.”
At a Glance

Dr. Amit Mittal

  • Medical degree from Yale School of Medicine
  • Board-certified dermatologist
  • Founder and director of Mittal Dermatology
  • Learn more

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