MiraDry vs. BOTOX: Which Should You Use to Stop Underarm Sweat?

Posted by on June 21, 2017

Find yourself resorting to T-rex arms in the office to hide chalk marks on your dark blouse, despite dropping top dollar on the nth type of antiperspirant that failed to work? We’ve been there, and we agree—you’ve got more important things to worry about than underarm sweat and deodorants ruining your outfits and putting a damper on your self-confidence. And you shouldn’t have to choose between scary chemical antiperspirants and hygiene.

If you want to say “enough already” to the whole charade, you have not one, but two FDA approved options to stop underarm sweat long-term: BOTOX injections and MiraDry. The question is, which option is better for you?

via GIPHY

Our aesthetic pros at Granite Bay Cosmetic Surgery know a thing or two about both sweat reduction treatments. We thought we’d make your research a little easier with some good old-fashioned compare and contrast.

Ready. Set. Botox vs. MiraDry…

BOTOX

MiraDry
How Botox injections work:A neurotoxin medication, Botox works by temporarily blocking signals from the nerves that activate sweat glands, so they don’t produce sweat. It’s indicated to reduce excessive sweating, but not to eliminate sweating. How MiraDry works:A handheld device is placed on the underarm, where it emits controlled microwave energy frequencies through the skin’s surface to permanently disable sweat glands. It’s indicated to treat “primary axillary hyperhidrosis” or any bothersome underarm sweat.
What treatment involves:You’ll get 10 to 15 injections per armpit via a very fine needle. Topical anesthetic can minimize discomfort. Treatment time varies, but may take up to 1 hour. What treatment involves:Your pits will be marked with a template and pen, and numbed with topical anesthetic. The handheld device is applied to the skin for treatment, which is mildly uncomfortable. Treatment takes about 1 hour.
What Botox offers….

  • Reduced sweating for up to 6 months
  • Full results within 2 to 4 weeks
  • Retreatment needed every 3 to 7 months to maintain results
 What MiraDry offers…

  • Non-invasive treatment
  • 82% or more sweat reduction
  • Immediate results
  • Reduces armpit hair
  • Odor reduction or elimination
  • Only 1 to 2 treatments needed, period
Possible side effects:

  • Numbness, muscle weakness, pain at injection site
  • Rarely, problems swallowing, headaches, vision problems
  • Allergic reaction to ingredients
 Possible side effects:

  • Temporary swelling, soreness, tingling or numbness in the treated area.
  • In rare cases, prolonged numbness or changes in sensation in armpits for several weeks after treatment
Does Botox work?

  • In clinical trials, 55% of patients achieved an “effective response,” and 81% of patients achieved 50% or greater sweat reduction
  • 82% “Worth It” Rating on RealSelf
 Does MiraDry work?

  • In clinical research, 96% of patients achieved an average 85% sweat reduction at 6 months
  • More recent research shows >90% efficacy for sweat reduction after 2 years, with only 16% experiencing odor issues (down from 89%)
  • Studies show an average 70% reduction in underarm hair
  • 91% “Worth It” Rating on RealSelf

Our preference at Granite Bay Cosmetic? MiraDry!

Of the two treatments, we think MiraDry emerges the clear winner. While Botox is effective, the effects are temporary and not everyone is a good candidate for injections. The immediate and super long-lasting results of MiraDry, combined with the bonus benefits of odor and hair reduction, make it a great value for our patients. Most importantly, our patients agree!

But you don’t have to take our word for it! Come find out all about MiraDry at our Lunch ‘n Learn on June 26 at GBC! Our local MiraDry expert, Cristen Andrews, will provide a brief presentation on the procedure, and then you can watch a live treatment to see what it’s really like. If you like what you see, you can get a free mini-consult (and a special price if you book). Plus, free lunch! See our events page for the full scoop.

In the meantime, we invite you to learn more about MiraDry at Granite Bay Cosmetic, and contact us with any questions about the procedure.

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