Before the Pain and Expense of Underarm Botox

Experts Advise Those with Excessive Underarm Perspiration to Explore Less Invasive Treatments

If your perspiration is a problem regardless of the season, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the Certain Dri Perspiration Poll, 25 percent of those who indicated perspiration is "sometimes" or "often" a problem reported that their perspiration is the same regardless of the season, with 13 percent reporting their perspiration has been a problem all of their lives.

Although the U.S. Food & Drug Administration recently approved Botox to treat excessive underarm perspiration, doctors recommend that you start with the least invasive option first. And, if no improvement is seen, move to other remedies, such as Botox injections or surgery.

While Botox is an effective way to treat excessive underarm perspiration, there are other non-surgical treatments, ranging from non-prescription antiperspirants, such as Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant Roll-On with 72 hour protection, to those that require a prescription that should be considered as a first line of defense. Botox can be costly and uncomfortable, and should really be a last resort reserved for the most serious hyperhidrosis sufferers.

The following are the most popular non-surgical treatments used for excessive underarm perspiration:

• Over-the-Counter Antiperspirants: These non-prescription, topical products (available in aerosol, gel, stick and roll-on) are used to inhibit perspiration by reducing pore size or by temporarily clogging pores to block perspiration. Look for Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant Roll-On (with up to 72 hour protection!) containing 12 percent aluminum chloride, which is the same active ingredient in prescription-strength antiperspirants. This product is the leading non-prescription antiperspirant recommended by dermatologists for the treatment of excessive perspiration. It is clinically tested and dermatologist-recommended as the most effective solution for excessive underarm perspiration available over the counter, as well as for occasional, excessive perspiration due to stress, heat, sports, occupation, etc. Clinical studies show that Certain Dri is more than twice as effective as the leading antiperspirant brand in keeping underarms drier longer. Certain Dri, manufactured by DSE Healthcare Solutions, is sold over-the-counter in mass-market retail, supermarkets and drug stores nationwide (where to buy) and retails for approximately $5.50. Apply as directed (used sparingly at bedtime a few nights per week). For added protection against odorand for morning freshness, use new Certain Dri A.M.^TM Underarm Refresher as a complimentary daily deodorant (apply daily in the morning).
• Prescription Antiperspirants: Available only with a prescription from a doctor. While very effective in controlling underarm perspiration, prescription antiperspirants contain 20-25 percent aluminum chloride in an alcohol solution, which may cause stinging and drying of the skin. Prescription antiperspirants can get costly due to doctor visits and prescription fulfillment. Apply as directed.
• Oral Medications: An oral glycopyrrolate may be effective in reducing excessive perspiration, but can lead to dryness of the mouth and blurred vision. A person taking this non-prescription medication needs to find just the right dose – one that controls the perspiration without giving intolerable side effects. Since glycopyrrolate absorption is highly variable between individuals, it is important to test a range of doses in order to find the one that gives the best balance of positive benefits, with the least amount of side effects. A physician can help determine the best strength of oral glycopyrrolate needed for an individual. Prices for different non-prescription oral medications will vary.
• Botox: Tiny injections of botulism toxin type A, commercially sold as Botox, are administered in the areas of excessive perspiration, such as the armpits. Botulinum toxin is a neuromuscular paralytic agent, which inhibits the release of acetylcholine, thereby preventing stimulation of the sweat glands. This type of treatment is not for the "needle-phobic," since it can require up to 20 injections under each arm. You better have deep pockets, too, because these treatments can cost upwards of $1,000 and may not be covered by insurance. However, the results can be highly effective, though temporary: the effects can last between six and 12 months.

For those who suffer from excessive perspiration, there isn’t one solution for everyone, since each individual is unique. And, while Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant is highly effective in treating excessive perspiration, it is recommended that you make an appointment with a dermatologist if you suddenly begin to experience profuse perspiration, since it can be related to an underlying medical condition that may need to be treated.