How Many Botox Units for Armpits? Your Guide to Hyperhidrosis

If you struggle with excessive underarm sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, you're not alone. This condition affects millions of people and can significantly impact confidence and daily comfort. Fortunately, Botox injections offer an effective, FDA-approved solution that can dramatically reduce underarm perspiration for months at a time.

One of the most common questions patients ask is: How many Botox units do I need for my armpits? In this comprehensive guide, we'll answer that question and provide everything you need to know about Botox treatment for hyperhidrosis.

How Many Botox Units Are Needed for Armpits?

The standard recommendation for treating underarm hyperhidrosis is:

50 units of Botox per armpit, totaling 100 units for both underarms.

However, the exact number of units can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of your sweating, the size of the treatment area, and your individual response to the treatment. Some patients may need as few as 40 units per armpit, while others with more severe hyperhidrosis might require up to 75 units per side.

Factors That Influence Unit Requirements

• Severity of Hyperhidrosis: More severe sweating typically requires higher unit counts

• Treatment Area Size: Larger underarm areas may need additional units for complete coverage

• Body Weight and Muscle Mass: While less significant than with facial treatments, these can play a minor role

• Previous Treatment Response: Your provider may adjust units based on how you responded to prior treatments

• Individual Metabolism: Some patients metabolize Botox faster or slower than average

What Is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating that goes beyond what's necessary for temperature regulation. Primary axillary hyperhidrosis specifically affects the underarms and can cause:

• Visible sweat stains on clothing even in cool environments

• Social anxiety and embarrassment

• Interference with daily activities and professional life

• Skin irritation and potential infections from constant moisture

• Increased laundry expenses and clothing damage

If over-the-counter antiperspirants haven't worked for you, cosmetic dermatology treatments like Botox injections may be the solution you've been seeking.

How Does Botox Stop Underarm Sweating?

Botox (botulinum toxin type A) works by temporarily blocking the chemical signals from nerves that stimulate sweat glands. When injected into the underarms, Botox prevents the activation of sweat glands in the treated area, significantly reducing perspiration.

The treatment doesn't eliminate sweating entirely from your body—it only affects the specific area where it's injected. Your body continues to regulate temperature normally through other sweat glands throughout your body.

The Science Behind the Treatment

Sweat glands are activated by acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter released by nerves. Botox blocks the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, preventing the signal that tells sweat glands to produce sweat. This creates a temporary "pause" in excessive sweating that lasts several months.

How Long Does Botox for Armpits Last?

Results from underarm Botox injections typically last 4 to 7 months, with an average duration of about 6 months. Many patients notice results within 2-4 days, with full effects appearing within 2 weeks.

Timeline of Results

• Days 2-4: Initial reduction in sweating begins

• Week 2: Full effects are visible with maximum sweat reduction (typically 80-95%)

• Months 4-7: Effects gradually wear off as the body metabolizes the Botox

• Follow-up: Maintenance treatments recommended every 6 months

Some patients find that with repeated treatments, results may last slightly longer as sweat glands become less active over time.

Benefits of Botox for Excessive Sweating

• Highly Effective: Clinical studies show 80-95% reduction in underarm sweating

• Quick and Convenient: Treatment takes less than 30 minutes with no downtime

• Long-Lasting: Results last 4-7 months with each treatment

• FDA-Approved: Safe and proven treatment for hyperhidrosis

• Non-Surgical: No incisions or recovery time required

• Improved Quality of Life: Restored confidence and comfort in social and professional settings

• Minimal Side Effects: Most patients experience little to no adverse reactions

Potential Side Effects and Safety

Botox for underarm sweating is considered very safe when administered by experienced professionals like Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC at My Skin. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential side effects:

Common Side Effects (Usually Mild and Temporary)

• Minor pain or discomfort at injection sites

• Temporary bruising or swelling

• Small bumps at injection sites (resolve within hours)

• Temporary muscle weakness in the arm (rare)

When to Contact Your Provider

While serious complications are extremely rare, contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• Severe muscle weakness

• Signs of infection (fever, warmth, increasing pain)

• Allergic reaction symptoms

Botox vs. Other Hyperhidrosis Treatments

Clinical-Strength Antiperspirants

Pros: Affordable, easy to use at home
Cons: Often ineffective for severe cases, may cause skin irritation, daily application required

Prescription Medications

Pros: Systemic effect, can help multiple areas
Cons: Numerous side effects (dry mouth, blurred vision), not targeted to specific areas

MiraDry (Microwave Therapy)

Pros: Permanent reduction in sweat glands
Cons: Expensive ($2,000-$3,000), potential for nerve damage, requires multiple treatments

Surgical Options (Sympathectomy)

Pros: Permanent solution
Cons: Invasive surgery, risk of compensatory sweating, irreversible

Why Choose Botox?

Botox offers an ideal middle ground: highly effective, minimally invasive, temporary (allowing you to stop if desired), and increasingly covered by insurance for medical hyperhidrosis.

Other Areas Botox Can Treat for Sweating

While armpits are the most common treatment area, Botox can also effectively treat excessive sweating in:

• Hands (Palmar Hyperhidrosis): 50 units per hand

• Feet (Plantar Hyperhidrosis): 50-100 units per foot

• Forehead and Scalp: 20-40 units depending on area

• Under Breasts: 50-75 units per side

Discuss with your provider if you experience excessive sweating in multiple areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Botox for armpits hurt?

Most patients report minimal discomfort. The needles used are very fine, and many providers offer numbing cream or ice to minimize any sensation. The discomfort is typically described as brief pinching sensations.

Can I work out after Botox armpit injections?

It's recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after treatment to prevent the Botox from spreading to unintended areas and to minimize bruising.

Will I still sweat after Botox?

You'll experience an 80-95% reduction in sweating in the treated area. You may still have some minimal moisture, but it will be significantly less than before treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

For ongoing management of hyperhidrosis, most patients require treatments every 4-7 months, typically 2-3 times per year.

Does insurance cover Botox for sweating?

Many insurance plans cover Botox for hyperhidrosis when medically necessary. Our team can help you determine your coverage.

Can Botox be combined with other cosmetic treatments?

Absolutely! Many patients combine underarm Botox with facial anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, or other cosmetic dermatology services during the same visit.

What makes someone a good candidate for this treatment?

Ideal candidates are adults experiencing excessive underarm sweating that interferes with daily life and hasn't responded to clinical-strength antiperspirants. You should not be pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neuromuscular conditions.

Why Choose My Skin for Your Botox Treatment?

At My Skin St. Pete and Bradenton, we specialize in both medical and cosmetic dermatology treatments. Our founder, Leah Michel, APRN FNP-BC, brings extensive experience and personalized care to every treatment.

What Sets Us Apart

• Expert Provider: Leah Michel has advanced training in cosmetic injectables and dermatology

• Personalized Care: 30-minute appointments ensure adequate time for consultation and treatment

• Comprehensive Services: We offer a full range of dermatology services under one roof

• Two Convenient Locations: Serving St. Petersburg and Bradenton

• Insurance Accepted: We work with Medicare and most commercial insurances

• Medical-Grade Products: Access to premium skincare products

Additional Cosmetic Services at My Skin

Beyond hyperhidrosis treatment, we offer a comprehensive range of cosmetic services to help you look and feel your best:

• Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau) for facial lines

• Dermal Fillers for volume restoration

• Lip Fillers for enhanced lip volume

• Microneedling for skin texture and tone

• PRP Injections for skin rejuvenation

• Kybella for double chin reduction

Take the First Step Toward Drier, More Confident Days

If excessive underarm sweating has been holding you back from wearing the clothes you love, feeling confident at work, or enjoying social situations, Botox treatment for hyperhidrosis can be life-changing. With 100 units (50 per armpit) providing months of relief, this FDA-approved treatment has helped thousands of people reclaim their confidence.

Don't let hyperhidrosis control your life any longer. The experienced team at My Skin is here to help you achieve lasting relief from excessive sweating with safe, effective Botox treatments.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Ready to learn more about Botox for underarm sweating? Request an appointment at our St. Petersburg or Bradenton location today.

Contact Us:

• St. Pete Location: (727) 295-7223 | 111 2nd Ave NE, Suite 1406, St Petersburg, FL 33701

• Bradenton Location: (941) 330-5805 | 4301 32nd St. W., Suite D2, Bradenton, FL 34277

Email: appointments@myskinbyleah.com

Conclusion

Understanding how many Botox units for armpits you need is the first step in addressing excessive sweating. With the standard treatment of 100 total units (50 per armpit), most patients experience dramatic, long-lasting relief from hyperhidrosis. This minimally invasive, FDA-approved treatment offers an excellent solution for those who haven't found success with traditional antiperspirants.

At My Skin St. Pete and Bradenton, we're committed to providing expert care, personalized treatment plans, and exceptional results. Whether you're seeking treatment for hyperhidrosis or exploring other cosmetic dermatology options, we're here to help you achieve your goals.

Take control of excessive sweating today—your drier, more confident future awaits!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if Botox treatment for hyperhidrosis is right for you.