Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Thankfully, several treatments are available to help manage and reduce sweating. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best sweating treatments to provide relief and restore confidence.
miraDry® axillary (i.e. armpit) sweat reduction
miraDry® is one of the latest treatments for axillary (i.e. armpit) sweat reduction. It is an in-patient treatment performed at doctor’s clinics and medical spas with a thermal energy machine. After numbing, microwave-based energy is applied to the armpits in sections. This effectively nullifies most of the sweat and odour glands in the area, resulting in up to 80% sweat reduction.
There is little to no downtime with this treatment. Most people only need one treatment to see significant results. Some need a second treatment. In rare cases a third treatment is necessary. And, in even rarer cases, the sweat and odour glands are located too deeply in a person’s body, so the treatment is not effective on them.
Prescription Antiperspirants
Prescription-strength antiperspirants are often recommended as the first line of defense against excessive sweating. These products contain higher concentrations of aluminum chloride, which help block sweat glands and reduce perspiration.
Prescription antiperspirants can provide significant improvements in sweat reduction compared to typical, over-the-counter alternatives. To obtain a prescription antiperspirant, consult a doctor who can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable option.
Note that one study concluded that “clinical strength” antiperspirants, which can be bought over-the-counter, were more effective than actual prescription antiperspirants (with less irritation, too).
Iontophoresis
Iontophoresis is a non-invasive treatment that uses a low-intensity electrical current to reduce sweating. It involves placing the affected areas, such as hands or feet, in trays filled with water while a gentle current is applied.
This treatment is believed to temporarily block sweat gland activity. Iontophoresis has been shown to be effective in reducing sweat production in approximately 81% to 91% of patients with hyperhidrosis. Devices for home use are available, but it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance.
Botox Injections
Botulinum toxin type A, commonly known as Botox®, has been used for treating excessive sweating for over a decade. It works by blocking the chemical signals that stimulate sweat production. Injecting Botox into the affected areas, such as the armpits, palms, or soles of the feet, can provide significant relief.
A prospective study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology demonstrated that Botox® injections reduced sweating by at least 50% in patients with axillary hyperhidrosis. It’s important to note that this treatment requires periodic re-injections to maintain its effectiveness.
Oral Medications
Oral medications can be prescribed to manage excessive sweating. Anticholinergic drugs, such as glycopyrrolate or oxybutynin, are often used to inhibit sweat gland activity.
However, these medications may have side effects, including dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.
A study published in Skin Appendage Disorders reported that anticholinergic medications resulted in a significant reduction in sweating. Due to potential side effects, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting oral medication for hyperhidrosis.
Conclusion
Excessive sweating can be distressing, but there are effective treatments available to alleviate its impact. miraDry®, prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis, Botox® injections, and oral medications have shown promising results in managing hyperhidrosis. Remember to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment option for your specific condition and to discuss any potential risks or side effects.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11807481/ ↩
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29222853/ ↩
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15928623/ ↩
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25361217/ ↩
