Comparison of Treatments for Excessive Sweating
The process of sweating is a natural bodily mechanism.
The problem begins when the sweat glands, responsible for producing sweat, work more than necessary, resulting in excessive sweating, that is, hyperhidrosis.
This problem is also often associated with an unpleasant sweat odor, known as bromhidrosis.
Furthermore, it is an embarrassing condition that can interfere with daily life, affecting self-confidence and self-esteem.
But there are many treatment options on the market today. To help you understand them better, let's compare them.
Treatments for Axillary Hyperhidrosis
It is true that one of the areas most commonly affected by excessive sweating is the armpits, which makes soaked sweaters a normal occurrence for many people.
It is relatively common for those who suffer from this type of hyperhidrosis to experience the following: antiperspirants. In fact, they are affordable and may even be somewhat effective, as they help to block sweat glands.
However, they require the creation of a routine.
Some may also be recommended oral medication, but its effects also depend on the dose and may cause some side effects.
Today there are more lasting treatments. One of the most effective is MiraDry, but there are others. Let's find out what sets them apart.
MiraDry versus Regular Toxin Injections
THE MiraDry can be summed up in two words: definitive and immediate.
Through the release of electromagnetic energy, the sweat glands are dissolved permanently in just one or two sessions, reducing excessive sweating by about 80% and bromhidrosis by 90%.
Imagine getting rid of the problem once and for all in such a short time!
Furthermore, it is a method authorized by Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), which proves its safety, as well as the treatment of Regular Toxin Injections.
Also the Regular Toxin Injections are very effective and quick to administer: Botulinum toxin is injected (with very fine needles, don't worry!), which blocks the neurotransmitter responsible for activating the sweat glands. This stops sweating in the treated area.
However, the effect is only temporary, so it should be repeated, on average, every 6 months.
Furthermore, the result is only fully noticeable after a few days.
As for possible discomfort, both therapies are practically painless and do not require recovery, being able to resume normal life as soon as the session ends.
MiraDry versus Thoracoscopic sympathectomy
Both eliminate the problem permanently., but they have some differences.
Firstly, MiraDry only requires local anesthesia, since the equipment itself incorporates a cooling system that disguises the sensation of the heat released.
Already Sympathectomy requires general anesthesia, as small incisions are made in the rib area and armpit so that it is possible to cut or cauterize the nerve endings in order to interrupt the impulses of the sweat glands that cause them to produce excessive sweat.
But there's more: with MiraDry there are no major side effects, only some temporary swelling or increased sensitivity may occur.
With Sympathectomy, it is common to develop compensatory sweating in other areas to compensate for the interrupted process. Even so, it is generally a tolerable condition.
Treatments for Palmar and Plantar Hyperhidrosis
It is also common for effects of hyperhidrosis manifest themselves on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.
In these cases, they can also be used antiperspirants – it’s true, they’re not just for your armpits.
However, once again, there are methods with more satisfactory long-term results.
PalmaDry versus Thoracoscopic sympathectomy
PalmaDry is very effective for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis, as it reduces its incidence by around 90%!
After medical indication and explanation, the treatment can be carried out autonomously with a dedicated device, which is an advantage, since the results are gradual. This means you can solve the problem without having to travel.
What is more no need for anesthesia, unlike Sympathectomy, since the electrical current released by the iontophoresis process that “numbs” the sweat glands is of low intensity.
But Sympathectomy is also highly effective, especially for palmar hyperhidrosis – its success rate reaches almost 100%!
PalmaDry versus Regular Toxin Injections
PalmaDry, during the first 8/10 days, needs to be performed daily. But from then on, the condition resolves, only requiring a few maintenance sessions.
Already the Regular Toxin Injections in the Hands, similar to what happens in the armpits, need to be repeated throughout life to ensure their effect.
Furthermore, they are not usually indicated for plantar hyperhidrosis.
Ask for help choosing the best treatment for your case
It is true that all the treatments we have mentioned have transformative results, capable of restoring the quality of life affected by axillary hyperhidrosis or palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis.
But the ideal treatment depends on each patient, the characteristics of their condition and the causes that gave rise to it.
It is essential to consult specialized doctors, who will perform an accurate assessment, take into account possible contraindications, and recommend the best therapeutic strategy to follow.
At Allure Clinic, we have experienced professionals at your disposal who will do their best to help you enjoy your life to the fullest.

Dr. Joana de Carvalho
- Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto
- Specialist in Angiology and Vascular Surgery
- Fellow of the European Board of Vascular Surgery
- Member of the College of Phlebology