miraDry for excessive underarm sweating

At a glance

How it works

A cooled applicator sends microwave energy to sweat glands under the skin. The heat destroys some glands while cooling protects the skin. Those glands do not grow back.

FDA-cleared use

miraDry is cleared for excessive underarm sweating. Studies measured sweat and daily impact for at least 12 months. A trained clinician must give the treatment.

Treatment course

A session takes about an hour. The underarm is numbed, then the clinician treats it in small sections. A second session may follow about three months later if more sweat reduction is wanted.

What to expect after treatment

Swelling and soreness often last one or two weeks. Numbness can last for weeks or months. Small lumps may form and then fade. Light activity often resumes within a day, but hard arm exercise may need to wait a week.

How long results last

Studies found lasting sweat reduction at 12 months, and later reports follow people for longer. Results vary. Some people choose a second session or add another treatment.

What to consider

• • Type: clinic procedure using microwave energy
• • Schedule: often 1-2 sessions, about 3 months apart
• • Cost: often $1,500-$3,500 per session
• • Use: trained clinician only
• • Body area: underarms only

Side effects and reasons this may not be safe for you

• • Post-procedure swelling and tenderness (1-2 weeks)
• • Temporary numbness (weeks to months)
• • Small bumps or lumps that resolve
• • Rare nerve injury (transient)
• • Bruising at injection sites
• • No compensatory sweating (unlike ETS surgery)

Compare this option

• Compare: botox vs miradry →
• Compare: miradry vs brella →

Sources for this treatment

Important numbers and approved uses on this page link back to the research or official information that supports them.

Frequently asked

Is miraDry permanent?

Destroyed sweat glands do not grow back, so the reduction can last. Results vary, and some people need a second session. The goal is less sweat, not always none.

How does miraDry compare to Brella?

Both reduce underarm sweating with heat. miraDry uses microwave energy in a visit of about an hour. Brella uses a short heated patch and may need more repeat visits.

Can miraDry treat hand or foot sweating?

No. miraDry is cleared only for underarms. Hand and foot options include iontophoresis and off-label Botox.

Read next

• Check my sweating →
• Where sweating happens →
• How we research our guides →

Where this fits