Although Botulinum Toxin would work in the hand as well, there are several reasons why it is not a good idea. The hand is very sensitive and the large number of injections needed to cover it would be very uncomfortable. In addition, the muscles are close to the skin, and there is a risk that they may become affected by the toxin, leading to weakness in the hand. Finally, there is an operation that is very effective and usually cures the palmar hyperhidrosis permanently.

ETS is 99% effective at curing palmar hyperhidrosis. The effect is permanent. It is also 80% effective at curing axillary hyperhidrosis when done at the same time. There is a slight change in technique if the axillae are treated as well so the surgeon must know if he/she is treating the hands only or hands and axillae together.

However, ETS is a fairly major operation and, like all operations, has a risk of side-effects and complications. See the page on ETS to read about these.

A recent study from the University of California has shown that 5% of the population suffer from excessive sweating of the hands. The same study also pointed to this being an inherited condition.  
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