Excessive underarm sweat, also known as axillary hyperhidrosis, affects approximately 4 million Americans. There are a number of ways to treat this condition, however those with excessive underarm sweat often compare miraDry and Botox as possible solutions to their sweating problem.
While at first glance these two treatments may seem similar in nature, there are a lot of differences once you compare the two options.
What is Botox and how does it work?
Botox is a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In large amounts, the toxin can result in an illness known as botulism, but in small diluted amounts it can be injected into specific muscles, causing controlled relaxation of the muscles.
Botox has been widely used to treat wrinkles and facial creases but has also been FDA-approved to treat axillary hyperhidrosis. During the procedure, 10 to 15 injections are administered in each affected underarm area, temporarily blocking the secretion of the chemical that controls the sweat glands.
How effective is it?
The results of Botox are typically seen two to four days after the procedure, but full effects can take up to four weeks. These results can last up to four to six months, but can become less effective over time. In addition, because the results are temporary, Botox must be repeated every few months to maintain dryness.
What are the side effects?
According to the website, Botox can cause serious side effects, such as problems swallowing, speaking or breathing, as well as loss of strength and all-over muscle weakness.
Other side effects of Botox include:
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Botox may include:
How much does it cost?
The cost for a Botox treatment depends on the size of the area that needs to be treated.
What is miraDry and how does it work?
miraDry is a non-surgical, FDA-cleared treatment for excessive underarm sweat. It harnesses the power of electromagnetic energy placed against the skin to effectively neutralize the glands that cause sweat and odor. The electromagnetic waves are simultaneously accompanied by a cooling agent designed to keep you comfortable.
The procedure may be performed in the office and only requires a local anesthetic to avoid any possible pain or discomfort.
How effective is it?
Results are typically immediate after the first session with little to no downtime. In most cases, patients only need one session to experience permanent results, with only a few requiring one to two additional sessions.
What are the side effects?
Some patients may experience temporary swelling, soreness, tingling and numbness in the treated area after treatment. These sensations typically clear up within a few days to a few weeks.
How much does it cost?
One miraDry session monetarily equates to one to two Botox sessions. However, with miraDry, only one session is typically required for permanent results.
| miraDry | Botox | |
| Sweat Reduction | Immediate results | Full results are seen after two weeks |
| Hair Reduction | Yes (average of 70% hair reduction) | No |
| Odor Reduction | Yes | No |
| Lasting Results | Results are permanent. | Results last 4 to 12 monthsup to 6.74 to 6 months. |
| Number of Visits | 1 to 3 visits total (with few patients needing 1-2 follow-ups). A small portion of patients require a 2nd session. | 1 visit every 4 to 12 months for life. |
| FDA-cleared | Yes. | Yes. |
| Where Procedure Is Performed | Sessions may be performed in the office. | Sessions may be performed in the office. |
When comparing the two treatment options, miraDry comes out on top. It’s hard to deny the miraDry benefits, including:
Meet the Hyperhidrosis Specialists
At the Hyperhidrosis Center at Thoracic Group, our team has years of experience in providing relief for those living with common types of hyperhidrosis. Our dedicated practice offers comprehensive services—such as diagnosis and customized treatment plans—that cater to your individual needs.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, contact us today.
