What is Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition in which the sweat glands are overactive. Primary focal hyperhidrosis usually begins in childhood or adolescence, affects both sides of the body symmetrically, and commonly involves the underarms, palms, soles and face. It is not caused by another illness and often runs in families. Secondary hyperhidrosis is sweating caused by another condition or medication, such as thyroid problems, infection, menopause or certain drugs, and tends to be more generalized. Identifying which type you have guides the right treatment.

Who it's for

You may benefit from treatment if you experience:

• Visible underarm sweat marks even in cool conditions
• Damp or dripping palms that make writing, typing or handshakes difficult
• Sweaty feet that slip in shoes or lead to odor
• Sweating that interferes with work, social life or clothing choices
• New sweating at night, sudden generalized sweating, or sweating with weight loss or fever, which should be medically evaluated

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

A dermatologist first reviews your symptoms, the areas involved and your medical history to distinguish primary from secondary hyperhidrosis. If an underlying cause is suspected, further tests or referral may be recommended.

For primary focal hyperhidrosis, a widely used option is hyperhidrosis Botox. Small amounts of botulinum toxin are injected into the skin of the affected area, where they temporarily block the nerve signals that activate sweat glands. It is most often used for the underarms and can also be considered for the palms, feet or forehead. Other options include prescription antiperspirants containing aluminum chloride and, in selected cases, oral medication that reduces sweating, prescribed only after a physician's assessment.

What to expect

After your consultation, the area is cleansed and a numbing cream or ice may be used for comfort, particularly on the palms. The injections themselves take about 15 to 30 minutes. You may feel small pinches, and mild redness, swelling or bruising at injection points can occur. Most people return to normal activities the same day. Sweat reduction usually begins within a few days to two weeks. Results are temporary and vary, typically lasting around four to six months, so repeat treatments are needed to maintain the effect. Palm injections can occasionally cause temporary hand weakness.

Aftercare

• Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area on the day of treatment
• Skip saunas, hot baths and strenuous exercise for about 24 hours
• Wait until the next day to apply antiperspirant or deodorant to treated areas
• Apply a cool compress if you notice mild swelling or bruising
• Note when sweating returns so we can plan your next session

Frequently asked questions

Is Botox for sweating safe?

When performed by a physician with appropriate dosing, it is a well-established treatment. Side effects are usually mild, such as temporary bruising or tenderness.

How long do results last?

Many people notice reduced sweating for about four to six months, though duration varies by area and individual.

Will blocking sweat in one area cause more sweating elsewhere?

Some people notice slightly more sweating in other areas, but treating a small area such as the underarms does not affect the body's overall ability to cool down.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is located at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul (3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors), directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 on Line 3. We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. To book a consultation, call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.