Detailed Explanation of the Effects and Treatment of Palmar Botox

What is Palmar Botox?

Symptoms and Concerns of Palmar Hyperhidrosis

Some people experience excessive sweating in their palms. This can lead to problems like shaking hands, slippery pens, or paper getting wet. The condition where the palms sweat excessively is known as "palmar hyperhidrosis," and it can be treated with Botox.

How Botox Works

Botox acts on the sweat glands called eccrine glands, blocking the signals that tell the body to produce sweat. This works by reducing the amount of acetylcholine, the substance that transmits the signals. The effect is temporary, lasting 3 to 4 months, after which acetylcholine levels increase and the sweating returns.

Indication for Palmar Botox

At our clinic, we only provide treatments that are not covered by insurance. If a customer is struggling with sweaty palms, Botox injections are available.

Treatment Method for Palmar Botox Botox Injection Procedure

Botox injections for the palms are painful. However, even if a numbing cream is applied, it may be washed away by sweat. The procedure involves thorough cooling and may also use nitrous oxide or a nerve block for added numbing. The injection itself is done with a fine needle, injecting shallowly and precisely.

Time and Frequency of Treatment

Botox is injected across the palms, with a spacing of 5mm to 1cm between each injection. Breaks may be taken depending on the pain level. The treatment takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Botox is usually administered once every 3 to 4 months.

Treatment Options for Palmar Hyperhidrosis

There are 7 common treatments for palmar hyperhidrosis:
Lifestyle Changes
Stress and tension can trigger sweating, so relaxation methods (deep breathing, yoga, meditation) can be effective. It’s also recommended to avoid foods and drinks that stimulate sweating, like caffeine and spicy foods.

Topical Medications
Aluminum chloride solution (antiperspirant) is effective for mild to moderate palmar hyperhidrosis. Applying it to the affected area suppresses sweat gland activity.
Usage: Apply at night and wash off in the morning.
Side effects: It may cause itching or irritation.

Oral Medications
Anticholinergic drugs can help reduce sweating but may cause side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and drowsiness.
Common medications: Propantheline and oxybutynin.

Iontophoresis
This treatment uses a weak electrical current to suppress sweat gland activity in the hands.
Frequency: Initially 2–3 times per week, then once or twice a month for maintenance.
Effect: Effective for moderate to severe cases.

Botulinum Toxin Injection (Botox)
Botox temporarily blocks the nerve transmission to the sweat glands, reducing sweating.
Duration: Effects last for about 6 months.
Pain: The procedure can be painful, but local anesthesia can help alleviate discomfort.

Surgery (Sympathectomy)
For severe palmar hyperhidrosis, surgery is an option. This involves cutting or blocking the sympathetic nerves in the chest, which permanently reduces sweating in the hands.
Effect: High success rate, but compensatory sweating in other parts of the body may occur as a side effect.

Psychotherapy
If hyperhidrosis is linked to stress or anxiety, counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be effective.

At our clinic, we perform the 5th option: Botox injections.

Effects and Duration of Palmar Botox Onset of Effects

The effects begin to show between 3 days to 1 week after the treatment.

Duration and Individual Variations

The effects last for about 3 to 4 months, but there can be individual differences, with some people experiencing effects for up to 6 months.

Yoshiko Kuno