Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterised by excessive sweating, usually in areas where there is a high concentration of sweat glands such as the hands, feet, armpits and the groin area. Excessive sweating can even occur when temperatures are cooler or at rest. It is estimated that 2 - 3% of the population suffers from hyperhidrosis, with less than 40% of those affected seeking medical advice. Excess sweating is a common problem that can be solved easily, leaving you with dry, soft skin regardless of the heat.

There are different ways of treating this condition, depending on how severe your case is. These include Iontophoresis - a safe medical procedure that involves sending mild electrical currents through water and into the skin; injectables such a Botox® to block the nerves that supply the eccrine glands; which in turn, prevent the glands from producing sweat; or in extreme cases, a surgery called ETS* (or Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy). 

At the Cadogan Clinic our preferred treatment method is to avoid invasive surgery and to treat the affected areas with Iontophoresis or Botox® as we believe these to be the most effective and safe.

*We do not offer ETS surgery for hyperhidrosis as the negative side effects of the procedure far outweigh the results.

Frequently Asked Questions

At the Cadogan Clinic our preferred method of treating hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating is either via two methods, either:

+ iontophoresis, a safe medical procedure that send mild electrical currents through water and into the skin. The procedure blocks sweat from coming out of the sweat glands, temporarily stopping sweating. Treatments must be done indefinitely to maintain desired results.

+ the administration of Botox® to the overactive sweat glands. The protein acts by blocking excess nerve signals to the sweat glands, thus reducing the amount of sweat the body releases.

+ with iontophoresis, you’ll place the affected body part in a basin of water. Your consultant will then turn on the machine and increase the current until you feel a slight tingling sensation on your skin. This shouldn’t cause any pain.

+ with Botox® Apart from the small pinprick when the injections are given, this is a comfortable and painless procedure. Local anaesthetic can be used if you have particularly sensitive skin.

If your aim is to reduce the embarrassment and inconvenience caused by overactive sweat glands, but don’t want the invasive surgical operation such as ETS, then either iontophoresis or Botox® can be a safe and convenient option hyperhidrosis treatment option.

+ with iontophoresis, the protocol is for 7 treatments over 4 weeks and these must be done regularly and before sweating increases to maintain results. A typical treatment programme will usually follow a format such as: 

  • Week 1: 3 treatments (10mins for hands , 15 mins for feet)

  • Week 2: 2 treatments

  • Week 3: 1 treatment

  • Week 4: 1 treatment

+ with Botox® you will notice a significant reduction in sweating, which can last for a period of 3 –6 months, after which many patients return for further treatment.

Iontopherisis starts at £500 for the 4 week treatment course, however if more sessions are required this cost will be discussed with you.

Botox treatment will depend on the number of units and areas treated, and this will be discussed with you during consultation.

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Dr. Alexis Granite
Dr. Alexis Granite

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Dermatologist specialising in skin cancer, skin allergy testing and women’s dermatology such as hormone related skin conditions, acne and hair loss

Dr. Nisith Sheth
Dr. Nisith Sheth

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Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon specialising in skin cancer, skin surgery such as Mohs, laser treatments and general and cosmetic dermatology

Dr. Susan Mayou
Dr. Susan Mayou

Dermatologist

Dermatologist seeing patients with acne, eczema, and other severe skin conditions, with a special interest in paediatric and cosmetic dermatology

Dr. Anjali Mahto
Dr. Anjali Mahto

Dermatologist

Dermatologist treating acne and other serious skin conditions. Also sees patients with ageing concerns, specialising in injectables and laser treatments

Mr. William Van Niekerk
Mr. William Van Niekerk

Plastic Surgeon

A plastic, reconstructive, aesthetic and burn surgeon specialising in all areas of cosmetic surgery, non-surgical aesthetics and complex microsurgery

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Prices

Prices vary depending on the severity of the condition and treatment required. Accurate prices will be quoted to you by our aesthetics team.

We can offer package pricing for combined treatments. Consultant fees will apply if seen by a Dermatologist.

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