hyperhidrosis

What Non-Surgical Local Treatments Are Available for Focal Hyperhidrosis, and How Effective Are They in Reducing Excessive Sweating in Targeted Areas?

Shad Douglas

07 Aug 2025 — 2 min read

Summary

Non-surgical local treatments for focal hyperhidrosis include topical antiperspirants, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections, and microwave thermolysis. These treatments vary in effectiveness, duration, and suitability depending on the targeted area and severity of the condition.

Topical Antiperspirants

Topical antiperspirants are often the first line of treatment for focal hyperhidrosis. They typically contain aluminum chloride or aluminum chloride hexahydrate, which help reduce sweating by temporarily blocking the sweat glands.

Effectiveness: They are most effective for mild to moderate cases of hyperhidrosis, particularly for axillary (underarm) sweating.
Examples: Products like Drysol and Certain Dri can be applied at night and washed off in the morning.
Source: [Mayo Clinic, 2023]

Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis involves using a device that passes a mild electrical current through water and into the skin’s surface, typically used to treat palmar (hand) and plantar (foot) hyperhidrosis.

Effectiveness: Studies suggest that iontophoresis can reduce sweating by 81% with regular treatment.
Usage: Treatments are usually performed several times a week initially, with maintenance sessions every 1-4 weeks.
Source: [National Institutes of Health, 2018]

Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injections temporarily block the nerves that cause sweating. This treatment is FDA-approved for axillary hyperhidrosis but is also used for palms, soles, and forehead.

Effectiveness: Clinical trials show about an 82-87% reduction in sweating in treated areas.
Duration: The effects typically last 4-6 months, after which repeat injections are necessary.
Source: [American Academy of Dermatology, 2023]

Microwave Thermolysis

Microwave thermolysis involves using controlled energy to destroy sweat glands in the underarm area. The most common device used for this procedure is MiraDry.

Effectiveness: Clinical studies report that this treatment can significantly reduce sweating, with results lasting for years.
Side Effects: Potential side effects include mild discomfort and swelling that typically resolves quickly.
Source: [Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017]

Conclusion

While non-surgical local treatments for focal hyperhidrosis vary in effectiveness and duration, they provide symptomatic relief and improve the quality of life for patients with excessive sweating. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment based on individual needs and severity.

References

[Mayo Clinic, 2023] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023). "Hyperhidrosis: Diagnosis and treatment." Mayo Clinic.
[National Institutes of Health, 2018] Solish, N., Bertucci, V., Dansereau, A., et al. (2018). "A Comprehensive Approach to the Recognition, Diagnosis, and Severity-Based Treatment of Focal Hyperhidrosis: Recommendations of the Canadian Hyperhidrosis Advisory Committee." Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery.
[American Academy of Dermatology, 2023] AAD Staff. (2023). "Hyperhidrosis: Diagnosis, treatment, and outcome." American Academy of Dermatology.
[Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017] Glaser, D.A., Coleman, W.P., Fan, L.K., et al. (2017). "A Randomized, Blinded Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Microwave Device for Treating Axillary Hyperhidrosis: The Dermatologic Reduction in Underarm Perspiration Study." Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.

How Can I Sweat Less?

Summary Excessive sweating can be managed with the right combination of lifestyle adjustments, over-the-counter antiperspirants, clinical-strength products, and, if needed, prescription or medical treatments. Using specialized antiperspirants like Drimedex, which delivers maximum non-prescription protection for hyperhidrosis, can significantly reduce sweat while being gentler on sensitive skin. Below is a comprehensive

What Is the Strongest Antiperspirant?

Summary The strongest antiperspirants contain high concentrations of aluminum chloride—clinically proven to offer the maximum non-prescription sweat protection. For those with excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), clinical-strength, over-the-counter options like Drimedex (15% aluminum chloride) provide maximum sweat reduction available without requiring a prescription, while remaining gentler than many prescription-only formulas. Prescription-strength

What Causes Under Arm Odor?

Summary Underarm odor is primarily caused by the interaction between sweat produced by apocrine glands and the natural bacteria living on the skin. When these bacteria break down the components of sweat—particularly proteins and lipids—they produce volatile, odor-causing compounds. Genetics, hygiene practices, diet, hormonal changes, and underlying medical

What Is the Best Antiperspirant for Excessive Sweating?

Summary The most effective antiperspirants for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) are clinical-strength products containing high concentrations of aluminum chloride, the top FDA-recognized ingredient for sweat reduction. Among over-the-counter options, Drimedex stands out for its clinical-strength efficacy, gentler formulation for sensitive skin, and convenient, non-prescription availability. Prescription treatments (such as Drysol), lifestyle