Getting Botox Injections in My Edges Was the Solution to a Sweaty Scalp

As a beauty writer and skin-care enthusiast, I’m always on the hunt for the next trend-worthy treatment that’s about to blow up the beauty market. It’s my job to scour the internet to find the latest trends, and test them out to give both a professional and personal opinion. Whether it’s trying out Sculptra, the buzzy “collagen inducer,” or Skinvive to fuel my hyaluronic acid obsession, I’m already on it before the hype even begins.

As someone who has participated in high-impact activities like competitive dancing, marching band, and track and field, I’m naturally prone to sweating. And let’s be real: when you’re a beauty lover, sweat and glam don’t usually mix well. There have been countless days when the waves in my haircuts would vanish or my eyebrow tint would fade because of my active lifestyle. I didn’t plan to slow down anytime soon, so I knew I needed to find a resolution. When I discovered that Botox injections for your edges and scalp were the secret behind Black women and influencers keeping their hairstyles flawless, I knew I had to try it, too.

Many people think you can only get Botox injections in your face, but according to Elizabeth Jessica Ranelli of SkinSpirit, you can receive treatment in your armpits and groin area to relieve yourself from excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis, which affects over 15 million people in the U.S. but often goes undiagnosed and underreported.

For those intrigued to know more, keep reading ahead to get the full scoop on my scalp and edges Botox review from start to finish.

Experts Featured in This Article

Elizabeth Jessica Ranelli, DNP, FNP-BC, CANS, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner specializing in cosmetic dermatology at SkinSpirit in NYC.

Prepping For My Scalp and Edges Botox Injections

Having had Botox injections before, I knew the pre-appointment drill: avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements like Advil, ibuprofen, and vitamin E. No alcohol 24 hours before treatment, but unlike traditional face Botox injections, it’s OK after. On the day of your appointment, ensure your scalp and hairline are clean and product-free.

The procedure is straightforward and requires no downtime, so the prep is minimal.

What It Was Like Getting Scalp and Edges Botox

Dr. Ranelli laid me back in the most comfortable chair and presented me with a diagrammed mirror to discuss the treatment process in-depth and go over what I wanted my outcome to be for the service. She then proceeded to clean my hairline and all around my head, asking if I needed any numbing cream before the injections. My pain tolerance is pretty high, and I’ve done the service before, so I opted out. However, for those nervous about it, the injections are uncomfortable, so I’d suggest going for the topical anesthetic cream to put you at ease.

Because my hidrosis isn’t severe, I received approximately 30 to 35 units, but Dr. Ranelli advises this is contingent on how hyperhidrosis affects the individual and how big the treated areas are. “When treating the scalp area, for those with hyperhidrosis, it is recommended to receive 80 to 100 units, but it is best to consult with your injector for a personalized assessment,” she tells PS.

The main focus was on the crown of my head, where I sweat the most. Dr. Ranelli injected several treatments into my scalp, and I instantly felt a refreshing, cooling sensation – like sticking my head in a freezer on a scorching summer day.

After about 20 to 25 minutes, the process was done, and I was ready to face the heat of summer with ease.

My Scalp and Edges Botox Aftercare

The downtime is as minimal as the treatment itself and shouldn’t disrupt your daily routine. Dr. Ranelli advised that for the first 24 hours, you should avoid rubbing or massaging your head to prevent the toxins from spreading to unintended areas. Also, steer clear of strenuous activities, like working out, and hair-care products during this period.

Also note that if you feel as if your body is overheating, the cooling sensation you may feel throughout your scalp is totally normal and nothing to cause alarm.

The Cost of Botox For Edges

The cost varies based on your location and provider. If you have a medical diagnosis of hyperhidrosis, your insurance might cover the treatment – check with your dermatologist for a detailed guide.

For cosmetic cases, expect to pay between $300 to $500, with results lasting six to 12 months, depending on individual responses.

My Scalp and Edges Botox Results

Because I live in New York City, which is fairly cool for most of the year, I only need the service in the summer. The injections work almost immediately, and on extremely hot days, the instant cooling sensation and the portable fan I carry keep me from going into sweat overload. Plus, my makeup stays on longer, and my hairstyles last longer, too.

Stixx Mathews is a New York City-based freelance beauty writer with 11 years of experience who is passionate about telling stories that merge beauty and pop culture. He enjoys sharing his expert insights about the latest trends and must-have products, with a particular focus on lipstick and fragrance.