What You Need to Know About miraDry

There are many approaches to combat excessive underarm sweating from clinical strength antiperspirants to natural remedies. But what happens if you’ve tried them all without successful results? Maybe it’s time to talk to your doctor about a clinical procedure to permanently stop underarm sweating. In this article, we take a closer look at a non-invasive treatment called miraDry.

What is miraDry?

miraDry is a simple procedure that uses thermal energy to stop excessive underarm sweating, or, axillary hyperhidrosis. It offers lasting results without requiring invasive surgery. While miraDry stops underarm sweating, patients continue to sweat as normal from the other sweat glands throughout their bodies. 

How does miraDry work?

The treatment, which is performed in a doctor’s office, utilizes a handheld device to precisely control electromagnetic energy. Electromagnetic waves are directed beneath the underarm skin where the sweat glands are found. The heat produced in this specific area causes thermolysis, or decomposition due to heat. This process effectively eliminates sweat glands, and in turn, stops sweat production.

Prior to the procedure, a local anesthetic is administered to the underarms and a temporary tattoo distinguishes the treatment area.

Where can miraDry help stop sweating?

Because of its success in stopping underarm sweating, patients frequently ask if miraDry for hands and feet is available. The short answer is no.

The long answer is two-fold.

1. The design shape of the handheld device fits against the underarm to apply light suction. But because the skin texture of hands and feet is different than that of underarms, the current shape does not allow sufficient suction.
2. Unlike armpits, hands and feet have vital structures like arteries, nerve endings, tendons, and blood vessels very close to the skin surface. This makes them more vulnerable to damage during the procedure.

For these reasons, miraDry for feet and hands is not available at this time.

How much does miraDry cost?

As a remedy for axillary hyperhidrosis with life-changing results, the treatment does not come cheaply. The cost for miraDry treatment is general $2,300 USD, although pricing varies depending on the protocol required to achieve the desired results.

Is miraDry covered by insurance?

At this time, miraDry is not covered by health insurance in most cases. However, HSA/FSA funds may be used towards the cost. To find out, contact your HSA/FSA manager to discuss your options. 

What are the side effects?

Most patients can resume normal activities immediately or shortly after the procedure. Typical miraDry side effects include temporary localized soreness or swelling. In some cases, patients report an unusual sensation in the skin surrounding the underarm or upper arm. It is short-term and gradually fades over time.

While you seek out ways to manage your hyperhidrosis symptoms, protect your dress shirts with an Ejis sweat proof undershirt (available in our shop or on Amazon). Our undershirts have a silent waterproof layer to prevent sweat from reaching your clothes. They also have antimicrobial technology to control odor-causing bacteria.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.