Controlling Perspiration

Before the Pain and Expense of Underarm Botox

Experts Advise Those with Excessive Underarm Perspiration to Explore Less Invasive Treatments

If your perspiration is a problem regardless of the season, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the Certain Dri Perspiration Poll™, 25 percent of those who indicated perspiration is "sometimes" or "often" a problem reported that their perspiration is the same regardless of the season, with 13 percent reporting their perspiration has been a problem all of their lives.

Although the U.S. Food & Drug Administration recently approved Botox to treat excessive underarm perspiration, doctors recommend that you start with the least invasive option first. And,if no improvement is seen, move to more serious remedies, such as Botox injections or surgery.

While Botox is a very effective way to treat excessive underarm perspiration, there are other non-surgical treatments, ranging from non-prescription antiperspirants, such as Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant, to those that require a prescription that should be considered as a first line of defense. Botox, on the other hand can be costly and uncomfortable. Botox should really be a last resort for the most serious hyperhidrosis sufferers.

The following are the most popular non-surgical treatments used for excessive underarm perspiration:

• OVER-THE COUNTER ANTI-PERSPIRANTS: These non-prescription, topical products (available in aerosol, gel, stick and roll-on) are used to inhibit perspiration by reducing pore size or by temporarily clogging pores to block perspiration. Look for Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant Roll-On with 12 percent aluminum chloride, which is the same active ingredient in prescription-strength antiperspirants. This product is the leading non-prescription antiperspirant recommended by dermatologists for the treatment of excessive perspiration. It is clinically tested and dermatologist-recommended as the most effective solution for excessive underarm perspiration, as well as for occasional, excessive perspiration due to stress, heat, sports, occupation, etc. Clinical studies show that Certain Dri is more than twice as effective as the leading antiperspirant brand in keeping underarms drier longer. Certain Dri, manufactured by DSE Healthcare Solutions, is sold over-the-counter in mass-market retail, supermarkets and drug stores nationwide and retails for approximately $5.50. Apply as directed (sparingly at bedtime a few nights per week). And for added protection against odor, use new Certain Dri A.M.™ Underarm Refresher as a complimentary daily deodorant; apply daily in the morning.
• PRESCRIPTION ANTI-PERSPIRANTS: Available only with a prescription from a doctor. While very effective in controlling underarm sweating, prescription antiperspirants contain 20-25 percent aluminum chloride in an alcohol solution, which may cause stinging and drying of the skin. Prescription antiperspirants can get costly due to doctor visits and prescription fulfillment. Apply as directed.
• ORAL MEDICATIONS: An oral glycopyrrolate may be effective in reducing excessive sweating, but can lead to dryness of the mouth and blurred vision. A person taking this non-prescription medication needs to find just the right dose – one that controls the sweating without giving intolerable side effects.
  
• BOTOX: Tiny injections of botulism toxin type A, commercially sold as Botox, are administered in the areas of excessive sweating, such as the armpits. Botulinum toxin is a neuromuscular paralytic agent, which inhibits the release of acetylcholine, thereby preventing stimulation of the sweat glands. This type of treatment is not for the “needle-phobic,” since it can require up to 20 injections under each arm. You better have deep pockets, too, because these treatments can cost upwards of $1,000 and may not be covered by insurance. However, the results can be highly effective, though temporary: the effects can last between six and 12 months.

For those who suffer from excessive sweating, there isn’t one solution for everyone, since each individual is unique. And, while Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant is highly effective in treating excessive sweating, it is recommended that you make an appointment with a dermatologist if you suddenly begin to experience profuse sweating, since it can be related to an underlying medical condition that may need to be treated.