Sweating plays an essential role in the body’s thermal regulation. However, this physiological mechanism can sometimes become disproportionate, unrelated to heat, physical activity or stress. When sweating occurs excessively in the underarms, to the point of interfering with daily life, it is referred to as axillary hyperhidrosis. This condition, common but often minimised, can lead to social, professional or intimate discomfort, undermine self-confidence and significantly affect quality of life. Soaked clothing, visible sweat marks, constant moisture or the fear of others’ perception can become daily constraints. Botulinum toxin injection is an effective and scientifically validated treatment for primary axillary hyperhidrosis. Performed by an experienced doctor, this technique allows for localised, long-lasting and natural control of sweating without affecting overall thermoregulation.
Sweating is an essential phenomenon for the body’s balance. It helps maintain a stable internal temperature, eliminate toxins and protect the skin. It is produced by the sweat glands, located throughout the body, with a high concentration in the underarm area. In some people, these glands become overactive, producing excessive amounts of sweat even when unnecessary. In this case, it is called primary hyperhidrosis. This form of hyperhidrosis is generally idiopathic, meaning without an identified medical cause, but it can be worsened by emotions, stress or fatigue. Unlike secondary hyperhidrosis, it is not linked to a hormonal, metabolic or neurological disease. It often appears during adolescence and persists into adulthood. It is not a serious disease, but it can become very disabling.
Botulinum toxin, known for its muscle-relaxing action in the treatment of certain expression wrinkles, also has proven effectiveness in the management of primary axillary hyperhidrosis. Its mechanism of action is based on the inhibition of acetylcholine release, a neurotransmitter essential for activating the sweat glands. When injected locally, botulinum toxin temporarily blocks communication between nerve endings and glands, thereby reducing sweat production. This action is strictly localized, reversible, and does not alter the function of the glands or general thermoregulation. The goal is not to “block” sweating but to modulate it, making it physiologically appropriate. The treatment does not cause compensatory sweating on other areas of the body.
This treatment may be considered occasionally—for example, before an important event where one wishes to avoid any discomfort related to sweating, such as a wedding, job interview, conference or public speaking—or as part of a regular management plan for axillary hyperhidrosis, with sessions repeated twice a year.
After thorough disinfection of the axillary area, the doctor performs a series of intradermal injections following a methodical grid pattern. This grid is established from a precise mapping of the sweating surface, allowing the injection points to be evenly spaced in order to target all the sweat glands uniformly. The use of very fine needles ensures a minimally painful procedure, generally well tolerated, requiring neither anesthesia nor special preparation.
No dressing or restrictive care is needed after the procedure. Immediately afterwards, the patient can leave the clinic and resume professional and social activities without downtime, as the treated area usually presents only slight, temporary redness.
The injections themselves take only a few minutes, and if the patient wishes additional comfort, a numbing cream can be applied about fifteen minutes before the injections, although in most cases the simple application of ice packs a few minutes before the session is sufficient to ensure optimal tolerance.
Before any injection, a medical consultation is essential. It allows for establishing a precise diagnosis, assessing the intensity of hyperhidrosis, its emotional or functional impact, and ruling out any contraindication. The doctor analyses the extent of sweating, its triggering factors, possible aggravating elements and the patient’s psychological experience. If necessary, additional examinations may be recommended, especially if secondary hyperhidrosis is suspected. This consultation is also an opportunity to define the areas to be treated, explain the treatment mechanism, the duration of its effect, its renewable nature and its possible limitations. Care is always personalised and adapted to each patient.
Botulinum toxin injections are considered safe and well tolerated when performed in a medical setting and by an experienced doctor. Side effects are rare, temporary and usually mild : slight redness, local sensitivity, small bruises. There is no systemic effect, as the toxin does not act on the rest of the body. Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, certain neuromuscular disorders and a history of allergy to the toxin. The result is reversible, and the technique can be adjusted according to the patient’s evolving needs and expectations.
After injections for axillary hyperhidrosis, no interruption of daily activities is necessary : the patient can immediately resume social and professional life. Slight redness or small bruises may appear, but they remain discreet since they are located under the arms. On the day of the session, it is simply recommended to avoid any friction of the treated area and to refrain from applying potentially irritating products, such as scented deodorants or alcohol-based lotions.
The action of the treatment begins progressively. The first effects generally appear from the fourth day, while maximum effectiveness in reducing perspiration is observed between two and four weeks. At this stage, the decrease in sweating can reach an average of 80 %, leading to the almost complete disappearance of sweat marks and odours related to excessive perspiration.
Once sweating is under control, patients report a significant improvement in their quality of life. Clothing can be chosen freely, social interactions occur without anxiety, and personal confidence is strengthened. Physical, functional and emotional comfort is restored. The sense of control, ease and freedom is one of the most appreciated benefits.
The duration of action is usually around six months. During a first session, it is not uncommon for the effect to be slightly shorter.
Sweating returns gradually, without rebound effect. It is then possible to repeat the injections.
The treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis with botulinum toxin is based on a personalised medical approach, adapted to the intensity of sweating. The price depends mainly on the quality of the product used. The first vial of botulinum toxin is billed at 500 CHF, and each additional vial is offered at a rate of 350 CHF. During the prior consultation, a personalised treatment plan is established in order to determine precisely the number of vials required. The number of vials needed is generally between one and four.
The injection of botulinum toxin is today the most reliable, precise and non-invasive solution to durably treat primary excessive underarm sweating. It acts locally, blocking the nerve stimulation of the sweat glands without disrupting the body’s overall balance. The results are natural, progressive, reversible and respectful of skin physiology. The treatment enables patients to regain comfort, social freedom and confidence.
Yes. Botulinum toxin works by temporarily blocking the nerve transmission responsible for activating the sweat glands. It therefore significantly reduces sweat production in the treated area without altering the body’s overall thermoregulation. The effect is local, targeted and reversible.
The effect appears progressively within the two weeks following the injection. The reduction in sweating generally lasts between six and nine months. The duration may vary depending on each patient, their metabolism and the degree of hyperhidrosis.
The injections are performed intradermally, using very fine needles. The discomfort is moderate and short-lived. A numbing cream may be applied before the session to further enhance comfort.
When used in medical doses and injected by a trained physician, botulinum toxin is a safe treatment, well documented and supported by extensive scientific data. Its use for axillary hyperhidrosis is approved by health authorities and widely recognised.
Yes. The main contraindications are pregnancy, breastfeeding, certain neuromuscular diseases and a known hypersensitivity to the product. The doctor checks these elements during the consultation.
No. The effect is temporary, as botulinum toxin is gradually broken down by the body. The sweat glands then resume their activity. However, it is possible to repeat the treatment once or twice a year, depending on the needs.
Yes, in cases of moderate to severe axillary hyperhidrosis, when local solutions (deodorants, antiperspirants, iontophoresis) are ineffective or poorly tolerated. The treatment provides a significant and long-lasting reduction in sweating, without skin irritation.
It is a precise, non-invasive medical treatment, without social downtime, effective after just a few days and with perfectly controllable results. It provides a reliable, discreet and long-lasting solution for patients bothered by sweating, both socially and professionally.
In the context of a comfort or aesthetic-oriented treatment, botulinum toxin injections for excessive underarm sweating are not reimbursed by health insurance. A personalized quote is provided during the consultation.
