Can Botox be used for arm boils?

Thank you for your question. Botox is probably not the best treatment for you. If it was purely a sweating issue, then Botox would be an excellent choice. It sounds like you have additional challenges with the armpit region. Surgery may be a better option for you.

Honestly for hidradenitis botox is not that successful and a very expensive procedure for this.  Its best to either surgically remove the hairs / armpit area or try VASER/Smartlipo or thermiRF treatments here. I have done this in many patients with success.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Thank you for your questions, and I am sorry that you are suffering from these arm boils.  I would hazard that these boils are the result of Hidradenitis Suppuritiva, a condition that affects a particular type of sweat gland typically found in the armpits, groin, glutes and lateral breast regions of the body.  Unfortunately Botox does not help remedy this process, I have found that only surgical removal of the tissue can provide long term relief.  See a dermatologist or plastic surgeon to get a definitive diagnosis as to the cause of your boils, they can they make the best treatment recommendation for you. 

I agree with the other doctors that your what you have described sounds like an infection in the sweat glands called Hidradenitis Suppuritiva.  This should be treated by antibiotics and perhaps surgical removal or drainage of the boils.When there is no infection in the area, Botox can be a big help in reducing the amount of perspiration and sweating.  And the good news is that usually injections in this area are only minimally painful.Botox can also decrease excessive sweating in other areas such as the palm of the hands though this tends to be more uncomfortable than under the arms.

Botox affects only those things that are mediated by a certain chemical (acetylcholine) like muscles and certain areas of sweating and will not help any type of infection

Thanks for your question. Generally speaking botox is very effective for treating excessive sweating under the armpits. However I concur with other opinions that your situation sounds more like hidradenitis which typically requires a surgical intervention. I would encourage you to find an experienced plastic surgeon for a detailed consultation and discussion of your options. Hope this helps. 

Hello Betty,Botox can help prevent areas from sweating.  It would not be used to treat any active boil.  Depending on what is causing your boils it may help to minimize them from forming but it is not guaranty.  I would discuss its use with your medical practitioner.  I hope this helps and good luck.