Sweating is a completely normal and important function of the body. It helps us regulate our temperature, particularly when we are hot, exercising or feeling stressed. But for some people, sweating can become excessive, unpredictable and incredibly frustrating. This is known as hyperhidrosis.
Hyperhidrosis can affect different areas of the body, including the underarms, face, hands and feet. When it affects the hands and feet, it can have a surprisingly significant impact on everyday life.
What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that is greater than what the body needs for normal temperature regulation. It can happen even when you aren’t hot or exercising.
Hands may become so sweaty that it is uncomfortable to shake hands, hold a pen, use a phone or handle paperwork. Feet can become excessively moist inside shoes and socks, which can be uncomfortable and may contribute to odour and skin irritation.
For some people, sweating can also become a source of embarrassment or anxiety, particularly in social or professional situations.
There are different types of hyperhidrosis. Primary focal hyperhidrosis usually affects specific areas such as the hands, feet or underarms and often begins earlier in life. Secondary hyperhidrosis can be associated with an underlying medical condition or medication, so persistent or new excessive sweating should be discussed with your GP where appropriate.
What treatments are available?
There are several treatments available for hyperhidrosis, and the most appropriate option will depend on how severe the sweating is and which areas are affected.
For milder cases, there are products available on the high street and from pharmacies that may help. These include antiperspirants containing aluminium salts, which work by temporarily blocking the sweat ducts. Stronger antiperspirants are also available from pharmacies and can be a useful first step.
Other options may include absorbent foot powders or specialist socks and insoles designed to help manage moisture. These can be particularly useful for people whose main problem is sweaty feet.
For people with more persistent or severe hyperhidrosis, treatments offered through healthcare professionals can include iontophoresis, prescription-strength topical treatments and, in appropriate circumstances, botulinum toxin treatment. In more severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments, specialist medical treatments may also be considered.
How does Botox help with sweaty hands and feet?
Botulinum toxin, commonly known by brand names such as Botox, can be used to treat excessive sweating as well as its more familiar cosmetic applications.
When it is injected into the affected area, botulinum toxin temporarily blocks the nerve signals that stimulate the sweat glands. The sweat glands themselves are still present, but they receive much less of the signal telling them to produce sweat.
For hands and feet, treatment involves a larger number of small injection points across the affected area compared with many cosmetic treatments. The aim is to treat the areas where excessive sweating occurs as evenly as possible.
The effect is temporary, and the duration varies from person to person. Treatment can therefore be repeated when the effect wears off, following an appropriate assessment.
Because the palms and soles are particularly sensitive areas, treatment also requires careful consideration of comfort, technique and the individual’s circumstances. A consultation is important before deciding whether this is the right treatment for you.
How much does treatment cost?
Because hyperhidrosis of the hands and feet typically requires more injection points and a greater amount of treatment than many cosmetic botulinum toxin procedures, the cost is usually higher.
At Flawless Aesthetic Clinic, treatment for hand or foot hyperhidrosis is typically £250–£400, depending on the area being treated and the amount of treatment required.
I always recommend booking a consultation first so that we can discuss your symptoms, the area affected, your expectations and whether botulinum toxin is an appropriate option for you.
Thinking about treatment?
If excessive sweating is affecting your confidence or everyday life, you don’t simply have to put up with it.
You can book a consultation with me at Flawless Aesthetic Clinic to discuss whether botulinum toxin treatment could be suitable for your hands or feet.
Book your consultation: www.flawlessaestheticclinic.co.uk
Treatment is subject to consultation and suitability assessment. Individual results and duration of effect vary.