A Step-by-Step Guide for Local and International Patients Seeking Relief from Excessive Sweating
Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, can significantly impact quality of life—whether it affects the underarms, hands, feet, face, or other areas. Fortunately, Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is a proven and effective treatment that blocks the overactive nerves responsible for excessive sweat gland stimulation.
In Korea, known globally for its advanced dermatology and aesthetic medicine, Botox for hyperhidrosis is a popular and trusted non-surgical solution. Whether you’re a local resident or an international patient visiting Seoul, Busan, or Daegu, here’s exactly what you can expect from the moment you enter the clinic to post-treatment care.
🌟 Why Choose Korea for Botox Hyperhidrosis Treatment?
Korean clinics combine medical expertise, cutting-edge technology, and cosmetic finesse—making them a top destination for treating hyperhidrosis safely and effectively. Many dermatologists in Korea:
- Are board-certified skin specialists
- Offer FDA-approved botulinum toxin brands like Botox®, Xeomin®, Nabota®, and Botulax®
- Use precision mapping techniques for accurate injection placement
- Provide English-speaking coordinators for foreign patients
- Maintain transparent pricing and clinical hygiene standards
📝 Step 1: Consultation & Diagnosis
🔍 Initial Skin Evaluation
When you arrive at a Korean clinic, the process starts with a detailed medical consultation.
You’ll be asked about:
- Areas affected by sweating (e.g., underarms, palms, feet, face)
- Severity and triggers
- Past treatments (antiperspirants, medications, iontophoresis)
- Any medical conditions, medications, or allergies
- Family history of hyperhidrosis
🧪 Optional: Minor’s Starch-Iodine Test
Many clinics use this diagnostic test to visualize active sweat zones. The skin is coated with an iodine solution, then sprinkled with starch. Sweat turns the starch blue or black, helping doctors map the exact injection areas.
💬 “The test is painless and takes about 10–15 minutes. It helps us customize your treatment precisely,” explains Dr. Lee, a dermatologist in Gangnam.
💉 Step 2: Preparation Before Botox Injection
🌿 Numbing the Area
To ensure comfort, Korean clinics typically:
- Apply topical anesthetic cream for 30–40 minutes
- Use ice packs or vibration devices for pain distraction
- Offer nerve block injections for highly sensitive areas like hands and feet
📋 Pre-Treatment Checklist
Before the procedure:
- You’ll be asked to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood thinners for 24 hours
- The skin will be cleansed and sterilized
- You may be asked to sign a consent form detailing risks and aftercare
🧬 Step 3: Botox Injection Procedure
🧪 What Happens During the Injections:
- A very fine needle is used to inject small amounts of Botox just under the skin
- Injections are spaced about 1 cm apart in the affected area
- Total number of injections: depends on the area and severity
- Underarms: ~50 units per side
- Hands or feet: 100–150 units total
- Face: 10–30 units depending on location
⏱ Duration: 20–30 minutes total
The treatment is quick and outpatient-based—you can return to most daily activities immediately after.
🛡 Step 4: Aftercare & Recovery
✅ What to Expect Right After:
- Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at injection sites (resolves in hours)
- Minimal bruising (can be covered with makeup if on the face)
- No bandages or downtime required
- You can walk, drive, and resume light activity immediately
❌ Avoid for 24–48 Hours:
- Heavy exercise
- Sauna, hot baths, or steam rooms
- Massage or pressure on the treated area
- Alcohol consumption
📅 Step 5: Results and Follow-Up
🕒 Timeline of Results:
- Day 3–5: You’ll start to notice reduced sweating
- Week 2: Maximum effect is typically achieved
- Months 4–6: Results gradually wear off; repeat treatment may be scheduled
🔁 Follow-Up Visit
Many Korean clinics schedule a check-in after 1–2 weeks to:
- Assess the results
- Top up any missed spots if necessary
- Discuss future treatments or package deals
💰 Cost of Botox for Hyperhidrosis in Korea
| Treatment Area | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Underarms (both sides) | $300 – $450 |
| Hands (both palms) | $400 – $600 |
| Feet (both soles) | $450 – $650 |
| Face (forehead/upper lip) | $200 – $350 |
Note: Foreigners may be eligible for VAT refunds at certified clinics.
🌍 International Patient Support
Many Korean clinics offer:
- English-speaking medical coordinators
- Online consultations via KakaoTalk or WhatsApp
- Same-day appointments for short-stay visitors
- Tax-free treatment packages and loyalty discounts
- Airport pick-up and hotel partnerships (VIP services)
🙋♀️ Who Is Botox for Hyperhidrosis Suitable For?
You’re a good candidate if:
- You have persistent excessive sweating in one or more localized areas
- Topical or oral treatments haven’t worked
- You prefer a non-surgical, fast-acting option
- You’re in good overall health
- You’re not pregnant or breastfeeding
⚠️ Possible Side Effects (Usually Mild & Temporary)
- Bruising or tenderness at injection sites
- Temporary muscle weakness (e.g., grip weakness after hand Botox)
- Headache or flu-like symptoms (rare)
- Allergic reactions (extremely rare)
Your Korean dermatologist will go over all risks during consultation.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Botox is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive way to manage hyperhidrosis, especially when administered by the highly skilled dermatologists in Korean clinics. From high-precision diagnosis to comfortable recovery, patients benefit from:
- World-class care
- FDA-approved products
- Transparent pricing
- Personalized support
💬 “We treat both the physical symptoms and the emotional impact of hyperhidrosis. Our goal is to help patients live sweat-free, confident lives.”
— Dr. Kim, Dermatologist in Seoul
✈️ Ready to Start Treatment in Korea?
We can help you:
- Choose a certified clinic with English support
- Book a same-day or travel-friendly appointment
- Get pricing details and treatment package offers
- Receive personalized pre- and post-treatment advice
