Iontophoresis Treatments

Published on Apr 27, 2015.

2 minute read

Iontophoresis refers to the use of electrical current on the surface of the skin. Iontophoresis is used for a variety of skin treatments, but is primarily used to treat excessive sweating. The process is painless, though some individuals may find the tingling sensation caused by iontophoresis to be uncomfortable.

Treating Hyperhidrosis with Iontophoresis

Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is a medical condition that causes excessive and unpredictable sweating. Iontophoresis works with water to provide mild electrical current to the skin. It is thought that the current causes the skin to thicken microscopically, which blocks sweat from being able to reach the surface of the skin. With the output of sweat blocked, the glands responsible for producing sweat will stop production.

The process requires a patient to submerge his hands and/or feet in shallow pans of water for 20 to 40 minutes, while a device provides mild electrical current to the water. The water conducts the current to the surface of the skin, where it stimulates the surface of the skin.

The American Academy of Dermatology (see Resources) recommends the use of iontophoresis in the treatment of sweaty hands and feet. Treatments must be repeated to maintain desirable results, and a prescription is required to administer the treatment at home.

Side Effects

Iontophoresis is effective in reducing sweat output from the palms of hands and feet, but there are some side effects you should be aware of. Irritation of abrasions, cuts and hang nails are a possibility, and the International Hyperhidrosis Society reports that excessive dryness of the skin can occur. Cover any abrasions, cuts and hang nails with Vaseline before treatment, and use Vaseline and 1% hydrocortisone creams to protect and soothe dry skin.

Shawn Hayes

Contributor

Shawn is a dedicated health and wellness writer, bringing a wealth of experience in nutritional coaching and holistic living. He is passionate about empowering readers to make informed choices about their physical and mental well-being. Outside of writing, Shawn enjoys hiking, mountain biking, and exploring new recipes to share with friends and family.

Conditions + Treatments

Natural Remedies to Remove Brown Spots

Most people have brown spots–or clusters of cells colored by pigment–on their skin. Nevi, or moles, come in various shapes and sizes–and most are completely harmless. Still, for aesthetic reasons you may decide that it is time for a particular mole or moles to go. How, then, to make this happen? Better yet, is there a natural way to remove brown spots? The answer is yes; there are several ways, including the use of honey, apples and castor oil.

3 minute read

Conditions + Treatments

Directions for a Vicks Humidifier

Using a humidifier can increase your comfort, but it’s important to operate it safely and clean it regularly to avoid the growth of bacteria and mold. When you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for placement, cleaning and maintenance of your Vicks humidifier, you’ll be sure that your appliance is operating efficiently and adding only clean moisture to your air.

3 minute read

Conditions + Treatments

Facial Exercises to Tighten the Skin on Upper Eyelids

If you want to tone the skin on your face, plastic surgery is not the only option. Facial exercises can help tighten the skin on your upper eyelids. The difference between surgery and the exercises is that surgery gives immediate results, while exercises take time. If you have free time you can dedicate to eye exercises each week, you may achieve the tightest eyelids possible. If you’re unsure, do the exercises for a month or two and check for results.

3 minute read