From the Research
Treatment for hyperhidrosis should start with clinical-strength antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride, with botulinum toxin injections being a highly effective option for focal hyperhidrosis, particularly for underarms, palms, and soles, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Treatment Options
- Clinical-strength antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride (like Drysol or Certain Dri) applied at night to dry skin
- Oral medications such as anticholinergics like glycopyrrolate (1-2mg twice daily) or oxybutynin (5-10mg daily) to reduce sweating systemically, but may cause side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision 2
- Iontophoresis, which uses a mild electrical current through water to temporarily block sweat glands, requires 20-30 minute sessions several times weekly initially, then maintenance treatments 3
- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections provide 4-6 months of relief for focal hyperhidrosis, particularly for underarms, palms, and soles, with a high satisfaction rate among patients 4
- For severe cases unresponsive to other treatments, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) surgically interrupts the sympathetic nerves controlling sweating, though this permanent procedure carries risks including compensatory sweating elsewhere 3
- MiraDry uses microwave technology to permanently destroy underarm sweat glands in 1-2 office treatments
Lifestyle Modifications
- Wearing breathable fabrics
- Avoiding spicy foods and caffeine
- Stress management techniques to complement medical treatments by reducing sweat triggers 1