Hyperhidrosis treatment

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) is more than a nuisance — for some people, it continues even after trying over-the-counter antiperspirants. When non-prescription options are insufficient, medically supervised care may be required.

Take a look

At a glance

  • Assessment includes both primary and secondary hyperhidrosis
  • Commonly affected areas: underarms, palms, soles, face
  • We offer a step-wise treatment pathway: topical → device/medicine → injections
  • Underarm injections: predictable sweat reduction, same-day recovery
  • Medicare rebates apply for underarm injections performed by a dermatologist
  • Treatment choice depends on lifestyle, skin type, and goals


What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis refers to sweating beyond what is required for normal body thermoregulation. It may present in specific sites (underarms, palms, soles, face) or more generally, and may be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to medications or medical conditions.

When patients continue to experience excessive sweating despite pharmacy treatments, a dermatologist assessment helps determine appropriate next steps.

The options

Treatment options

Option
Suitable for
Mechanism
Downtime
Notes in our practice
Topical antiperspirants
Mild underarm sweating
Aluminium salts reduce sweat at the skin surface
None
Often trialled first; many referred patients have already used this
Iontophoresis
Palms, soles
Low electrical current to reduce sweat gland activity
None
Requires repeated sessions; less practical for underarms
Oral medicines
Widespread sweating
Reduce nerve signals to sweat glands
None
Suitable in selected patients; side effects (e.g. dry mouth, dizziness) limit use
Precision injections
Primarily underarms, occasionally palms or soles
Block nerve signals to sweat glands in target area
Minimal
At Derm SS, this is the most common option for underarms, using grid-based injection mapping for accuracy

Final costs depend on treatment area, intensity, and number of sessions. Confirmed after consultation.

What it’s used for

Underarm injections

In our clinic:

  • Consultation confirms diagnosis, predicts suitability, and provides what to expect
  • The underarm skin is cleaned and numbing applied for comfort
  • Injections are placed systematically across the underarm region using a grid approach
  • Patients may resume normal activities the same day; avoid heavy heat or intense exercise for 24 hours
  • Benefits typically appear within days, peak around two weeks, and usually last 4–6 months before wearing off
  • Maintenance treatment is available when effects diminish
Cautions

Safety, risks and cautions

All medical procedures carry risks. Possible side effects include:

  • Local pain, swelling or bruising
  • Temporary weakness (especially in palm area) — discussed beforehand
  • Rare: infection, allergic reaction
  • Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in people with neuromuscular disorders


These risks and how to manage them are reviewed in detail during consultation.

The cost

Costs

Treatment fees vary depending on the region treated and the amount needed. Medicare rebates may apply for underarm injections performed by a dermatologist. A personalised quote will be provided during consultation.

Our most commonly asked skin resurfacing questions

How long do underarm injections last?

Patients often notice benefit in a few days, with peak effect by two weeks. The effect usually lasts 4–6 months before gradually wearing off. Repeat treatment can help maintain control.

What options exist if I’ve already tried antiperspirants?

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Is the injection procedure painful?

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Does it reduce body odour?

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Ready to take the next step in your skincare?

Whether it’s pigmentation, scarring, rosacea or skin cancer, we’ll provide a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs. Call us today or book a consultation to start your specialist care.