What causes facial excessive sweating?
Craniofacial hyperhidrosis, or excessive facial sweating, is caused by overstimulation of the eccrine glands, which are responsible for producing sweat.
There isn’t usually a specific cause, although it can be hereditary. It can also be caused due to anxiety, substance abuse, menopause, hyperthyroidism or some medications.
How do sweat blocking treatments work?
Excessive sweating treatments work by blocking the communication of sweat glands and the nerves causing their overactivity.
The secretion of acetylcholine into the gap between the nerve and sweat gland is required for proper function of the gland.
Blocking the release of acetylcholine from the nerve terminals, prevents communication between the nerve and sweat gland, resulting in clinical reduction in excessive sweating.
This is done by targeting areas of problematic sweating during your consultation and if suitable, subsequent treatment. Occasionally, we may decide to perform a starch-iodine test to clearly identify areas of particular concern.
How much product will I need to treat excessive sweating?
It is important to remember that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to treatment plans.
What works for one person will not necessarily work for another. Speaking with your doctor will outline what options may work best for you. While there are standard dosages, consultation is required to determine the dose that is right for your specific circumstances.
How long does excessive facial sweating treatment last?
On average, the effects of your treatment should last around 3–5 months.
This can depend on how active the sweat gland was before treatment, and how strongly it returns once the treatment wears off.
Most patients re-treat their excessive facial sweating about every 4 months.
