November is Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month, which makes it a good time to talk about something many people deal with quietly – excessive sweating. If you plan your outfits around sweat marks, carry a spare shirt, or reapply antiperspirant several times a day, you are not alone. It is a concern we hear about often at the Cosmetic Enhancement Center of New England.
The good news is that excessive underarm sweating is treatable. Here is a guide to hyperhidrosis and to miraDry, a non-surgical treatment designed to address underarm sweat and odor at the source.
What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. Everyone sweats to cool down, but with hyperhidrosis the body sweats more than it needs to, often without heat, exercise or stress to explain it. It commonly affects the underarms, and it can also show up on the hands, feet or face.
For many people, it is more than a nuisance. Underarm sweating can stain clothing, cause odor and affect confidence at work, at the gym and in social situations.
Signs your sweating may be more than normal
- You sweat through your shirt even on cool days or while sitting still.
- You avoid certain colors or fabrics because they show sweat marks.
- You change your shirt during the day or keep a spare one with you.
- Over-the-counter antiperspirants, even clinical-strength ones, are not enough.
- Underarm odor or sweat makes you self-conscious.
What is miraDry?
miraDry is a non-surgical treatment for excessive underarm sweating. It uses thermal energy to target and eliminate the sweat and odor glands in your underarms. Because sweat glands do not regenerate once they are treated, miraDry is designed to give long-lasting results, and many patients find they no longer need antiperspirant or deodorant.
Unlike daily antiperspirants or treatments that need to be repeated, miraDry works on the glands themselves, which is why many people see it as a long-term solution.
What to expect during treatment
Your provider will start by numbing your underarms with local anesthesia so you stay comfortable. Next, a temporary marking is placed on the skin to guide treatment. The handpiece is then placed on the skin, applies light suction, and delivers thermal energy to the sweat and odor glands. Most patients describe the treatment as painless.
Recovery and side effects
Most people return to normal activities the same day. It is common to have some swelling, soreness, tingling or numbness in the treated area, which typically fades within about a week. Your provider will go over aftercare with you and let you know what to expect.
Results
Many patients notice less sweating right away. Some patients may need more than one treatment session to reach their goals, and your provider will talk with you about what is right for you. Individual results vary.
miraDry or Botox?
Botox is another option for underarm sweating. A quick round of injections, about 30 minutes for hyperhidrosis, can reduce sweating in the underarms. It may take a few weeks to see the full effect, and results last a few months, so treatment is repeated over time to maintain them.
The main difference is how long results last. Botox temporarily reduces sweating and needs regular repeat visits. miraDry treats the sweat and odor glands directly and is designed for long-lasting results. Some people start with Botox to see how much less sweating changes their day, then move to miraDry for a longer-term solution. Your provider can help you decide which fits your goals, schedule and budget.
Is miraDry right for you?
miraDry is best suited for men and women dealing with excessive sweating, particularly in the underarms. A complimentary consultation that includes a sweat test is the best way to find out if you are a good candidate. Your provider will review your health history, your goals and any treatments you have already tried.
Why now is a good time
Fall and winter bring layers, sweaters and heated rooms, which can make underarm sweat just as noticeable as it is in summer. Starting treatment now also means you can head into spring and summer already feeling more confident. And with November being Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month, there is no better time to stop putting up with it.
What to do before your consult
Make a note of when your sweating bothers you most and what you have already tried, such as clinical-strength antiperspirants or past treatments. Bring a list of your medications. Ask about the number of sessions, what recovery looks like, and how miraDry compares to Botox for your goals. Financing through CareCredit is available.
Ready to stop sweating?
Book a complimentary consultation with our team and we will walk you through your options for excessive sweating. Individual results vary, and the right plan depends on your needs and goals.
