Botox to reduce sweating: what to know

A clinician places several small injections into the skin of the affected area, such as the underarms, palms or soles. The medicine acts locally on sweat-gland nerve endings; it does not remove the glands. The effect develops over time and gradually wears off as nerve activity returns. Botox is different from a cream or deodorant because it is injected, so assessment of the sweating pattern, skin condition and medical history matters.

Tell the clinician about medicines, allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding, muscle or nerve disorders, and any infection where injections are planned. Ask whether the sweating is focal or could reflect another health problem. After treatment, follow the clinic's instructions for washing, exercise and products on the area. Temporary tenderness, bruising, weakness or altered sensation can occur, depending on the site. Discuss alternatives such as prescription antiperspirants or other treatments if injections are unsuitable. Read about [Botox](/treatments/injectables/botulinum-toxin-injection/) and [Botulinum Toxin Type A](/materials/botulinum-toxin-type-a/).

Contact the treating clinic promptly for spreading redness, increasing pain, marked swelling, pus or fever. Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, swallowing or speaking, widespread weakness, or a severe allergic reaction after treatment. New sweating across the whole body, sweating during sleep, faintness, chest discomfort or unexplained weight change also deserves medical assessment rather than cosmetic treatment alone.

Which area will you treat, and what improvement is realistic? How will you reduce discomfort during injections? What side effects are more likely for this body site? When should I contact you, and what alternatives could I consider?