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Fashion influencer and actor Uorfi Javed recently revealed that her armpits don’t smell owing to a cosmetic tweak. “My armpits don’t smell. I have Botox in my armpits, so woh sweat rok deta hai (Botox takes care of the sweat). So, I can smell my armpits,” Uorfi told Mashable India.
This statement left many people curious — and a little surprised. While Botox is best known for smoothing wrinkles, does it also have a well-established medical use for treating excessive underarm sweating, known as axillary hyperhidrosis?
Dr Karuna Malhotra, aesthetic physician, cosmetologist and skin expert, Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, said that Botox for underarms is not about changing how your sweat smells, it’s about reducing the amount of sweat produced. “Less sweat means fewer bacteria breaking it down, and therefore less odour,” said Dr Malhotra.
What is armpit Botox?
Botox is a purified protein derived from Clostridium botulinum. Dr Malhotra elaborated that when injected in tiny doses into the underarm area, it temporarily blocks the nerve signals that stimulate sweat glands. The result? Dramatically reduced perspiration for several months.
How it works:
Sweat glands are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system. Botox interrupts the signals from these nerves. “Without these signals, the sweat glands stay inactive in that area,” said Dr Malhotra.
Why do people opt for it?
For some, underarm sweating is a severe and embarrassing issue that antiperspirants or home remedies cannot control, said Dr Malhotra.
“People who sweat excessively often face discomfort, staining of clothes, and social awkwardness. Botox offers a quick, effective, and minimally invasive solution,” said Dr Malhotra.
Even for people without diagnosed hyperhidrosis, Botox can be used for lifestyle and cosmetic reasons — such as wanting to stay fresh during public appearances, long events, or in the case of celebrities, on stage and under hot lights, shared Dr Malhotra.
Does it stop odour?
According to Dr Malhotra, sweat itself is odourless. “The smell occurs when bacteria on the skin break down the proteins and fatty acids in sweat. By reducing sweat production, Botox indirectly reduces odour because there is less moisture for bacteria to thrive in,” described Dr Malhotra. “It doesn’t change your body chemistry, but it changes the environment where odour-causing bacteria multiply,” said Dr Malhotra.
How does it work?
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Pain level: Minimal, with numbing cream if needed
Recovery: You can return to normal activities immediately
Effect duration: Typically 4–6 months, after which repeat sessions may be needed
Possible side effects
Most people tolerate the treatment well, but minor side effects can include:
*Temporary pain or swelling at the injection site
*Bruising
*Mild muscle weakness in the treated area
*Dr Malhotra urged that when done by a trained medical professional, the risk of serious side effects is extremely low. “The key is precision in injection technique,” said Dr Malhotra.
Cost factor
Botox for underarms is more expensive than over-the-counter deodorants or antiperspirants, but for those who struggle with excessive sweating or have high-profile lifestyles, the benefits often outweigh the costs, noted Dr Malhotra.
“Armpit Botox is not just a beauty fad — it’s a medically approved treatment that can significantly improve quality of life for people with sweating issues. For others, it’s a confidence-boosting choice. The important thing is to have it done safely and only by an experienced practitioner,” said Dr Malhotra.
Bonus: Dig deeper into the skin
Now that you have read all about armpit botox, you should also know more about using cosmetics on babies and children, which experts say could disrupt hormones, trigger allergies, and why a dermatologist doesn’t recommend applying imli or tamarind mask on the face for pigmentation.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
