How do you treat excessive sweating?
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) can be treated with small injections of botulinum toxin into the affected area — most commonly the underarms — which temporarily switch off the overactive sweat glands. At Visage Aesthetics the treatment is carried out by a registered nurse, takes around 20 minutes, and typically keeps sweating under control for four to seven months before a top-up is needed.
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What it is.
Hyperhidrosis is sweating well beyond what the body needs to regulate temperature. It is common, harmless in itself, but can be genuinely distressing — ruined shirts, social anxiety, constant planning around it. The underarms, palms, soles and forehead are the usual sites. For many people antiperspirants are not enough, and that is where a medical treatment can help.
The treatment.
We treat hyperhidrosis with botulinum toxin, the same well-studied medicine used for anti-wrinkle treatment, injected in a grid across the affected area. It blocks the nerve signal that tells the sweat glands to activate. Results begin within a few days, reach full effect at about two weeks, and last several months. The treatment is assessed first in a free consultation, where we confirm it is the right option for you and take a full medical history.
Full Hyperhidrosis & Migraines information→Is it right for me?
- Adults whose underarm sweating is not controlled by strong antiperspirants.
- People whose sweating affects their clothing, work or social confidence.
- Anyone wanting a non-surgical option before considering anything more invasive.
- Those who have ruled out an underlying medical cause with their GP.
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) FAQs.
How long does treatment for excessive sweating last?+
Most clients find one treatment controls underarm sweating for four to seven months, sometimes longer. The effect wears off gradually, and you simply return for a top-up when you notice it returning. There is no obligation to treat on a fixed schedule.
Is the sweating treatment painful?+
The injections are very superficial and use fine needles, so most people describe it as a series of small pinches rather than pain. We can apply a topical numbing cream to the underarms beforehand if you would prefer. The whole appointment takes around 20 minutes.
Will it stop me sweating everywhere?+
No, and that is by design. The treatment only reduces sweating in the specific area injected — usually the underarms. Your body still regulates its temperature normally everywhere else. It is a targeted reduction, not a shutdown.
Should I see my GP first?+
If your excessive sweating came on suddenly, happens mainly at night, or affects your whole body, it is worth seeing your GP to rule out an underlying cause first. For long-standing, localised sweating — typically the underarms — botulinum toxin is a recognised and effective option, and we will discuss your history fully at consultation.
Independent, regulated sources.
- NHS — excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis): causes and treatmentNHS
- NICE TA260 — botulinum toxin type A for preventing chronic migraineNational Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
- MHRA — botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine (POM)Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
- Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners — choosing a safe practitionerJoint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP)
- Nursing and Midwifery Council — check a nurse on the registerNursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
External links are provided for information only and do not imply endorsement. This page is general information, not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always discuss your own circumstances at consultation.
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