Everything You Should Know About Botox for Treating Armpit Sweating

Botox, known for its ability to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, also has a range of other benefits. One of the most popular uses is injecting Botox into the armpits to reduce excessive sweating. While it might seem too good to be true, this treatment is highly effective and widely used by many.

“As we approach warmer spring and summer months, one of my top requests for Botox is to treat the armpits,” says Sage Ilas, RN, an aesthetic nurse specialist at SkinSpirit in Scottsdale, Arizona. “Patients are thrilled with this treatment as it effectively reduces sweating when traditional solutions like antiperspirants aren’t enough, preventing ruined clothes, embarrassing sweat stains, and general discomfort.”

Continue reading for expert insights on how this treatment works, how long it lasts, the cost, and more.

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How Does Botox Help Reduce Sweating?

Botox, a neuromodulator, functions by temporarily paralyzing the muscle at the injection site. “By interfering with the muscle responsible for sweat gland contraction, Botox injections reduce the gland’s ability to produce sweat,” explains Jeffrey Fromowitz, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist from Boca Raton, Fla. “When the muscle can’t contract, sweating in that area is minimized.”

This treatment is highly effective for managing excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis. In fact, studies show that it can reduce sweating in the targeted area by 80% to 90%. It’s also beneficial for treating excessive sweating in areas like the palms and feet.

“A common question from patients is whether sweat will ‘back up’ or be redirected elsewhere after this treatment. However, after receiving Botox, sweat production simply stops in the treated areas, and will continue in other areas of the body,” explains Ilas.

What is the Cost of Botox for Armpit Sweating?

The price of Botox for treating excessive sweating can vary based on your location, the clinic, and the number of Botox units recommended by the provider.

“Typically, the cost ranges from $1000 to $1600 per session,” says Lisa Chevalier, MMS, PA-C, a physician assistant and founder of SoVous Medical Spa and Laser Center in New York City. “This generally involves about 50 units per armpit, although the amount can vary depending on the severity of sweating and your unique anatomy.”

How Long Will Botox in the Armpits Last?

Botox for armpits isn’t a permanent fix, so you’ll need to book follow-up sessions to keep up the results. The duration of the effects can vary from person to person.

Dr. Fromowitz explains that, on average, Botox injections last between three to six months. However, some individuals report a reduction in sweating lasting up to a year. Ilas adds, “Most of my patients come in once a year to get treated, typically from when spring starts to heat up until fall when the temperatures begin to drop.”

As the effects wear off, you’ll gradually notice sweating returning to its normal levels until you get re-treated.

Are There Other Injectable Options?

Technically, yes, but Botox remains the gold standard due to its FDA approval in 2004 for treating hyperhidrosis in the armpits, says Ilas. “This FDA approval makes Botox the trusted and effective choice for this treatment.”

That said, several studies back the safe and effective use of other neuromodulators—like Dysport and Jeuveau—that yield similar outcomes.

“Practitioners can opt to use these products off-label, provided they understand the appropriate units and dosing,” Chevalier adds. “However, Botox remains the top choice in my practice, primarily due to its proven longevity in research.”

What to Expect During Your Appointment?

When you get Botox for your armpits, expect a fast and straightforward appointment.

“A trained and certified healthcare provider will use a fine needle to make 10 to 15 injections in a grid pattern under the skin for each armpit,” explains Ilas. “This process allows the Botox to temporarily block the nerve signals that trigger sweating, reducing perspiration in the treated area.”

You may experience slight swelling or redness at the injection site, and light bruising could occur. Around four weeks after the treatment, the Botox will take effect, and you'll notice a reduction in sweating. Some practitioners may suggest a follow-up visit to ensure everything is progressing as expected.