Hyperhidrosis Botox in Korea: Complete Guide to Excessive Sweating Treatment 2025
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) can significantly impact quality of life. Botox injections have become the gold standard treatment, and Korean clinics offer this life-changing procedure at a fraction of Western prices.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating beyond what's needed for temperature regulation. It can occur:
- Primary hyperhidrosis: Without underlying cause, often genetic
- Secondary hyperhidrosis: Due to medical conditions or medications
Common areas affected:
- Underarms (axillary)
- Palms (palmar)
- Feet (plantar)
- Face/scalp (craniofacial)
How Botox Treats Sweating
Botox (botulinum toxin) blocks nerve signals that activate sweat glands:
- Injection: Botox injected into affected area
- Nerve blocking: Acetylcholine release inhibited
- Sweat reduction: Glands stop producing excess sweat
- Duration: Effects last 4-12 months
Hyperhidrosis Botox Prices in Korea (2025)
| Treatment Area | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Underarms (both) | ₩300,000-500,000 | $230-385 |
| Palms (both hands) | ₩400,000-600,000 | $310-460 |
| Feet (both) | ₩400,000-600,000 | $310-460 |
| Forehead/Scalp | ₩300,000-500,000 | $230-385 |
| Full Hands + Feet | ₩700,000-1,000,000 | $540-770 |
Prices as of January 2025.
Korea vs. International Pricing
| Area | Seoul | Los Angeles | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underarms | $230-385 | $1,000-1,500 | 70-80% |
| Palms | $310-460 | $1,200-2,000 | 75-80% |
Treatment by Area
Underarm (Axillary) Hyperhidrosis
Most Common Treatment
- Units needed: 50-100 per underarm
- Pain level: Mild (skin is thicker)
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Success rate: 80-90%
Palm (Palmar) Hyperhidrosis
More Complex Treatment
- Units needed: 100-150 per palm
- Pain level: Moderate-high (sensitive area)
- Duration: 4-6 months
- Success rate: 80-90%
- Note: May cause temporary hand weakness
Foot (Plantar) Hyperhidrosis
- Units needed: 100-150 per foot
- Pain level: Moderate
- Duration: 4-6 months
- Success rate: 70-80%
Face/Scalp Hyperhidrosis
- Units needed: 50-100 total
- Pain level: Mild-moderate
- Duration: 4-6 months
- Success rate: 80-90%
Expected Results
Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | No change yet |
| Day 3-7 | Sweating begins to reduce |
| Week 2 | Significant reduction |
| Week 4 | Full effect |
| Month 4-12 | Gradual return of sweating |
Effectiveness
| Area | Average Reduction |
|---|---|
| Underarms | 80-90% |
| Palms | 80-90% |
| Feet | 70-80% |
| Face | 80-90% |
The Treatment Process
Consultation
- Confirm diagnosis of hyperhidrosis
- Rule out underlying conditions
- Discuss expectations
- Starch-iodine test may be performed
During Treatment (30-60 minutes)
For Underarms:
- Area cleaned
- Grid pattern marked
- Multiple small injections
- 10-20 injection points per side
- Ice applied after
For Palms (Requires Nerve Block):
- Nerve block at wrist (essential for pain)
- Multiple injections across palm
- More injections needed than underarms
- Temporary weakness possible
Pain Management
| Area | Pain Level | Management |
|---|---|---|
| Underarms | Mild | Topical numbing, ice |
| Palms | High | Nerve block required |
| Feet | Moderate | Nerve block helpful |
| Face | Mild-moderate | Topical numbing |
Recovery and Aftercare
First 24 Hours
- Avoid exercise
- No hot showers/saunas
- Don't rub treated areas
- May have mild soreness
First Week
- Resume normal activities
- Effect develops gradually
- Avoid massage of area
Long-Term
- Repeat every 4-12 months
- May last longer with subsequent treatments
- Some patients need less over time
Side Effects and Risks
Common (Expected)
- Injection site soreness
- Mild bruising
- Temporary redness
Area-Specific Risks
Palms:
- Temporary grip weakness (2-4 weeks)
- Compensatory sweating elsewhere
- Muscle weakness
Underarms:
- Compensatory sweating (rare)
- Generally very safe
Face:
- Eyebrow position changes (if near forehead)
- Asymmetry (rare)
Ideal Candidates
Good Candidates
✅ Diagnosed hyperhidrosis ✅ Failed antiperspirants ✅ Significantly impacted quality of life ✅ Realistic expectations ✅ Can commit to repeat treatments
May Not Be Ideal
❌ Underlying medical cause (treat that first) ❌ Pregnancy/breastfeeding ❌ Neuromuscular disorders ❌ Allergy to botulinum toxin
Hyperhidrosis Botox vs. Alternatives
| Treatment | Effectiveness | Duration | Invasiveness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Botox | 80-90% | 4-12 months | Non-surgical |
| MiraDry | 80-90% | Permanent | Minimally invasive |
| Prescription antiperspirant | 40-60% | Daily use | None |
| Iontophoresis | 70-80% | Ongoing | None |
| Surgery (ETS) | 90%+ | Permanent | Surgical |
MiraDry vs. Botox
MiraDry (for underarms only):
- Permanent reduction
- Higher upfront cost
- One-time treatment
- Destroys sweat glands
Botox:
- Temporary (repeat needed)
- Lower per-treatment cost
- Works on all areas
- Reversible
Finding Quality Treatment
What to Look For
✅ Experience with hyperhidrosis ✅ Proper diagnosis process ✅ Nerve block capability (for palms) ✅ Appropriate unit dosing ✅ Realistic expectations discussion
Questions to Ask
- How many hyperhidrosis cases do you treat?
- How many units will you use?
- Do you perform nerve blocks for palms?
- What results can I expect?
- How often will I need repeat treatment?
FAQ
Q: How long does treatment last? A: Underarms typically 6-12 months, palms/feet 4-6 months.
Q: Is it painful? A: Underarms are tolerable. Palms require nerve block due to sensitivity.
Q: Will sweating move to other areas (compensatory sweating)? A: Possible but not common. More likely with surgical options.
Q: Can I return to work same day? A: Yes, no significant downtime.
Q: Is it covered by insurance in Korea? A: As a tourist, you'll pay out-of-pocket. Still significantly cheaper than Western prices.
Q: Will I need treatment forever? A: Yes, Botox effects are temporary. Some patients find duration increases over time.
Conclusion
Hyperhidrosis Botox is a highly effective treatment for excessive sweating, and Korean clinics offer it at remarkably competitive prices. Whether you struggle with underarm, palm, or other sweating, this treatment can significantly improve quality of life.
Struggling with excessive sweating? Consult with a qualified Seoul clinic to discuss your hyperhidrosis treatment options.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about hyperhidrosis treatment. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
Last Updated: January 2025