Is Foot Botox A Real Thing?

If you deal with chronic pain or excessive sweating around your feet, foot botox could be the solution for you.

By Anjan Sachar

Anjan Sachar

Anjan Sachar

4th November, 2024
Foot Botox Foot Botox Treatment Botox For Face Face vs Foot Botox

Botox is undoubtedly one of the most commonly talked about aesthetic procedures — in both a positive and negative way. Traditionally, botox as a treatment has been used to help relax muscles of the face to reduce visible signs of skin ageing. But did you know that botox can be used for your feet as well? And no, it isn’t an option to make your feet look younger (is that even a thing?). “Originally approved by the FDA for eye disorders in 1989, botox has since expanded to address various medical conditions, including excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) and foot pain,” says Dr. Nidhi Singh Tandon, a Lucknow-based board-certified dermatologist. We dive into how it works and whether it’s worth a shot.

In this article

What is foot botox and how is it different from botox for the face?

According to Dr. Tandon, foot botox can significantly help those dealing with plantar fasciitis, bunions (swelling around the joint of your big toe), or discomfort from high heels. “Plantar fasciitis is a common condition caused by inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes, leading to heel and arch pain, swelling, and persistent discomfort,” she explains. “Studies have shown promising results in using botox to treat plantar fasciitis by relaxing the muscles around the heel and reducing the activity of pain-modulating neurotransmitters, helping to alleviate pain.” It can also prevent the worsening of bunions and calluses.

Another condition that can be treated using foot botox is plantar hyperhidrosis, which is excessive sweating from the soles of your feet. “Botox injections target the sweat glands in the soles of your feet, blocking the signals that tell these glands to produce sweat,” explains Dr. Niketa Sonavane, celebrity dermatologist and founder, Ambrosia Aesthetics, Mumbai. “As a result, your feet stay much drier, which can be a big relief, especially if sweaty feet make you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious.

Foot botox is significantly different from the botox procedure done for the face. “Facial botox primarily relaxes muscles to reduce lines and wrinkles. For the feet, however, we target the sweat glands, not the muscles. So, rather than softening expressions or smoothing lines, foot botox focuses solely on reducing moisture levels,” says Dr. Sonavane.

How many sessions of foot botox does one need to see results and how long do they last?

“Typically, foot botox lasts three to four months, with minimal risks and side effects like temporary muscle weakness or swelling,” says Dr. Tandon in context to trying the treatment to alleviate pain in the feet. “Compared to surgery, the procedure involves less downtime and aftercare, making it a compelling option for non-invasive pain management.” If you’re getting treated for excessive sweat, “you will most likely only need one session to see results, with sweat reduction beginning within a few days to a week,” says Dr. Sonavane. “The effects generally last around six months, but this can vary; some people enjoy dryness for up to nine months, while others may need another session after four to six months.”

It is also important to factor in that you may experience some discomfort while getting the treatment since the skin around the feet is sensitive and Botox essentially comprises the protein being injected into your skin. Your feet require more botox units than smaller areas around the face, driving up the cost of the procedure.

Is foot botox right for you?

Suffering from sweaty feet often restricts footwear options. It can even cause a fall if too moist or sheer discomfort in even walking barefoot, making foot botox a worthy solution. “If sweaty feet affect your confidence or lead you to avoid certain activities, you could be an excellent candidate. People who experience slipping in their shoes due to sweat or recurrent fungal issues may also find it especially beneficial,” says Dr. Sonavane. On the other hand, if you experience pain in your feet caused by inflammation or due to bunions, it’s worth consulting your dermatologist to understand if the treatment is the right solution for you. “Foot botox can truly be life-changing for those who struggle with excessive sweating. Although often overlooked, dry feet can boost confidence and improve quality of life,” she concludes. As is the case with every skin concern and treatment plan, always consult with your dermatologist to thoroughly understand the root cause and all treatment options available to you to make an informed decision.

Topics covered
  • What is Foot Botox
  • What is Face Botox
  • Sessions For Foot Botox
Anjan Sachar

Anjan Sachar

Anjan Sachar is an award-winning beauty editor and event curator with a decade of experience writing across beauty, wellness and lifestyle. She is also the founder of The Red Lipstick Club. The two ways to spot her in a crowd: She'll have a bold red lipstick on and a stiff drink in her hand.