Concern
Excessive sweating in Reading
Underarms, hands and feet that antiperspirants cannot keep up with. Treated at our salon in Caversham, Reading.
What causes it?
Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating beyond what the body needs for cooling, and it is a recognised medical condition rather than a hygiene issue or a nerves problem. A consultation with Amber looks at the areas affected and what you have already tried, and guides you towards an appropriate assessment. New or unexplained sweating may need your GP first, and a consultation does not guarantee a particular treatment.
Sweat glands are controlled by nerve fibres that release acetylcholine. In hyperhidrosis those nerves are overactive: the signal to sweat fires far beyond what temperature or exertion warrants. It commonly starts in adolescence, often runs in families, and has nothing to do with anxiety, though it certainly causes it.
Blocking acetylcholine release at the treated site stops the glands receiving the instruction. The glands are unharmed; they simply stop being told to work, and normal sweating continues everywhere else.
Signs to look out for
Most people who come to us about excessive sweating recognise several of these. You do not need all of them, and you do not need to know which treatment you want — that is our job.
- Visible sweat marks regardless of temperature or activity
- Ruining clothing, or choosing outfits around the problem
- Prescription-strength antiperspirant that has stopped working
- Sweating that started in your teens and never settled
- Hands or feet damp enough to affect handshakes, paper or grip
How we can help
These are the routes we would talk through at consultation, in the order we would usually consider them. Which one is right depends on your skin, your history and your budget.
Block the signal at the source
Injections across the affected area — underarms, palms or soles — take around thirty minutes and stop the glands being activated. Effect begins within a week and is complete by two.
Not sure which of these is you?
You do not have to decide before you come in. Bring the problem and we will talk you through what could help and what it costs. The consultation is free and there is no obligation to book anything.
What to expect over time
A realistic guide, including the stretch in the middle where it may not look like much is happening. Everyone responds differently, so your practitioner will talk you through your own timeline.
Days 1 to 3
No change yet. Small marks at the injection points settle within the hour.
Day 7
Noticeable reduction begins.
Day 14
Full effect. This is the point to judge it.
Month 6 to 9
Gradual return. That depends on the treatment, which is discussed at your consultation.
Good to know
Sudden-onset heavy sweating in adulthood, sweating that wakes you at night, or sweating with weight loss or fever needs a GP before it needs us. Those can point to an underlying condition, and we will send you. Treatment of the palms is more uncomfortable than the underarms and can cause temporary mild grip weakness, which matters if you work with your hands.
Treatments that can help
Listed strongest match first. All of them are done at our salon on 3 Prospect Street in Caversham, Reading.
Common questions
Is it safe to stop sweating in one area?
Yes. The body regulates temperature over its whole surface; treating the underarms does not impair that.
How long does it last?
It varies from person to person, and your practitioner will explain what to expect.
Does it hurt?
A series of very small, shallow injections. Underarms are easily tolerated; palms and soles are more sensitive and we numb thoroughly.
Will I sweat more elsewhere?
Slight compensatory sweating is occasionally reported and is usually minor.
Other concerns we treat
Ready to talk it through?
Bring the problem, not the treatment name. Consultations are free and carry no obligation.
