Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) Treatment in Seomyeon, Busan
Hyperhidrosis treatment (다한증 치료) reduces excessive sweating beyond what the body needs for cooling, commonly on the underarms, palms, soles or face. In Seomyeon, Busan, dermatologists usually start with prescription-strength antiperspirants, then offer Botox injections (often 6–9 months of relief for underarms), iontophoresis for hands and feet, oral medication, or microwave thermolysis for longer-lasting underarm results.
Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:
What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis (다한증) is sweating far beyond what is needed for temperature control. Primary focal hyperhidrosis usually starts in childhood or adolescence, affects specific areas symmetrically and often runs in families. Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by another condition or medication, such as thyroid overactivity, diabetes, infection, menopause or certain antidepressants, and tends to be generalised or start later in life.
Symptoms and when to see a doctor
- Visible sweating or dripping hands, feet or underarms without heat or exercise
- Sweat soaking through clothes daily
- Skin maceration, odour or infections in sweaty areas
- Avoiding handshakes, writing or social situations
See a doctor promptly if sweating is new, all over the body, occurs mainly at night, or comes with weight loss, fever or palpitations, as these suggest a secondary cause needing investigation.
What happens at the clinic
- Assessment: history, pattern of sweating and screening for secondary causes; blood tests if indicated.
- Severity: sometimes a starch-iodine test maps the sweating area.
- Step-up plan: antiperspirant first; then Botox, iontophoresis or oral medicine depending on area.
- Botox injection: many tiny injections across the mapped area; palms may need nerve blocks for comfort.
- Review: follow-up to assess response and plan repeat treatment.
Treatment outlook
Most people achieve good control with one or a combination of treatments. Botox for underarms typically gives months of relief and can be repeated. Iontophoresis requires regular sessions initially, then maintenance. Microwave thermolysis can provide long-term underarm reduction after one or two sessions.
Risks and side effects
- Antiperspirants: skin irritation
- Botox: injection discomfort; temporary hand weakness when palms are treated
- Oral anticholinergics: dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention
- Microwave thermolysis: swelling, numbness, tenderness for weeks
- Sympathectomy: compensatory sweating elsewhere, which can be significant
Choosing a clinic for hyperhidrosis treatment in Seomyeon
- See a dermatologist who checks for secondary causes before treatment.
- Ask which option fits your affected area and lifestyle.
- For palm Botox, ask how pain is controlled and about hand-grip effects.
- Ask whether iontophoresis devices are available in clinic or for home use.
- Clarify how often treatment will need repeating.
Seasonal note
Busan's humid summers can make symptoms worse, so many people book treatment in late spring. Seomyeon clinics are a short metro ride from most of the city.
Key facts
- Treats: primary focal hyperhidrosis of underarms, palms, soles, face or scalp
- First-line: aluminium chloride antiperspirants; topical anticholinergic products where available
- Injections: botulinum toxin; underarm effect often 6–9 months or more
- Devices: tap-water iontophoresis (hands/feet), microwave thermolysis (underarms)
- Oral options: anticholinergics such as glycopyrrolate or oxybutynin
- Surgery: sympathectomy, reserved for severe resistant cases
- Typical NHI coverage: diagnosis and some medical treatments may be covered; ask about specific procedures
Frequently asked questions
How long does Botox for sweating last?
For underarms, relief commonly lasts about 6–9 months and sometimes longer. Palms and soles may have shorter benefit. Treatment can be repeated when sweating returns.
Does Botox for palm sweating hurt?
Palms are sensitive, so injections can be uncomfortable. Clinics may use numbing cream, ice, vibration or nerve blocks. Temporary mild grip weakness can occur for a few weeks.
What is the best treatment for underarm sweating?
Many people start with prescription antiperspirant. If insufficient, Botox is effective and quick, while microwave thermolysis offers longer-term reduction. The choice depends on severity, budget and tolerance for downtime.
Can hyperhidrosis be cured permanently?
Primary hyperhidrosis is usually controlled rather than cured. Microwave thermolysis and surgery offer long-term underarm or palm reduction, but surgery carries significant side effects such as compensatory sweating.
Should I worry if I suddenly start sweating a lot?
New, generalised or night-time sweating can signal thyroid problems, infections, diabetes, hormonal changes or medication effects. See a doctor for assessment rather than treating it as simple hyperhidrosis.
Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.