Excessive sweating is far more common than people admit to, and far more distressing than those who do not have it understand — the ruined shirts, the planning around what you wear, the discomfort in meetings. For underarm hyperhidrosis there is a well-established medical treatment that works reliably for most people, and at ELM Aesthetics it is assessed and carried out by Melody Steel, a Nurse Prescriber with over 19 years’ experience and a background in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery unit at St James’s Hospital.
How it works
A prescription-only medicine is injected in a grid pattern across each underarm, temporarily blocking the nerve signals that trigger the sweat glands. Sweating in the treated area reduces dramatically within one to two weeks. It does not affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature — the underarms are a small fraction of your sweat glands — and it does not increase sweating elsewhere.
Who it suits
Anyone whose underarm sweating is out of proportion to heat or exertion, is not controlled by clinical-strength antiperspirants, and affects daily life or confidence. It is assessed medically at consultation, including questions about possible underlying causes, which occasionally need investigating first.
What to expect
As this is a prescription-only medicine, your consultation comes first and Melody prescribes your plan; treatment is booked for a separate day, as she cannot legally prescribe and treat in the same appointment. At the treatment visit the area may be marked up to map the sweat glands, then a series of small, shallow injections are placed across each underarm. Most people find it tolerable — a numbing cream can be used. The appointment takes 30 to 45 minutes and there is no downtime. Results build over one to two weeks and typically last six to nine months, sometimes longer.
Honest limitations
Results are temporary and vary from person to person. This treatment is for the underarms; sweating of the hands, feet or face needs a separate discussion. Where sweating is a symptom of an underlying condition or a medication side effect, that should be explored with your GP first — Melody will say so if she thinks that applies to you.
What it costs
A deposit will be required to secure your appointment.
Your questions answered
Does it stop me sweating completely?
It reduces underarm sweating dramatically for most people — often to the point of not needing antiperspirant. A small amount of residual sweating is normal.
Will I sweat more elsewhere?
No. Compensatory sweating is associated with surgical treatments, not with this one.
Is it safe?
This is a long-established medical use of the medicine with an excellent safety record when carried out by an appropriate prescriber after assessment.
How long does it last?
Typically six to nine months, and for some people longer. Many people have treatment once or twice a year.
Does it hurt?
The injections are shallow and quick. A numbing cream can be applied beforehand if you prefer.
Can I be treated at my first visit?
No — as a prescription-only medicine, Melody prescribes at your consultation and treatment is booked for a separate day.