A distinction is made between “classic” iontophoresis for the intensive introduction of active substances from ointments into the body via electrodes and tap water iontophoresis, in which weak direct current flows through the body via the hands or feet immersed in water using electrodes. This conservative treatment method is successfully used in dermatology to treat various forms of hyperhidrosis.
What is iontophoresis?
Iontophoresis is a medical procedure related to the absorption of medical agents through the skin by means of direct electric current. Many years of experience have shown that the efficiency of active ingredients can be increased in this way. About 40% of the diseased persons suffer from this form. The concentration of many In tap water iontophoresis, one or two containers are filled with water and the electrodes, which are connected to a control device, are immersed in it. A weak direct current flows through the body via the hands or feet that are in the water.
Function, effect and goals
The areas of application are divided into five areas that can be symptomatically affected. A distinction must also be made between conventional iontophoresis and tap water iontophoresis.
- Hyperhidrosis facialis
Because excessive sweating, which occurs especially on the T-zone of the face (chin, mouth, nose and forehead), can not be hidden, sufferers suffer particularly severe psychological stress.
- Hyperhidrosis axillaris
This form is suffered by about 40% of people with the disease. The concentration of many sweat glands in a cavity (armpit) can not evaporate as well as not at all, which leads to unpleasant and telltale sweat rims with often intense sweat odor on outer clothing.
- Hyperhidrosis palmaris
Not only the palms of the hands are affected. Rather, the increased sweating also occurs on the fingers and the heels of the hands so much that the skin is clammy and soaked. In extreme cases, they are discolored dark blue-red and feel spongy. The psychological problem is comparable to that of hyperhidrosis facialis. The danger of social exclusion should not be underestimated. Adolescents in the social imprinting phase should be treated promptly to avoid behavioral problems.
- Hyperhidrosis plantaris
This symptomatology has nothing to do with the “sweat or cheese feet” in general. Rather, it is an excessive and constant sweating regardless of physical exertion or outside temperature. The soles of the feet are often soggy, which is noticeable, among other things, by a whitish callus. Allergies as well as athlete’s foot and plantar warts and nail bed inflammation occur with a penetrating odor.
- Hyperhidrosis generalis
This is not fully treatable by iontophoresis. However, the (multiple) partial treatment can bring about an increase in quality of life. For example, when the immediately visible areas of the face, armpits and hands are treated. Any form of hyperhidrosis is aggravated by the psychological stress that sufferers often experience. Iontophoresis, including that carried out with tap water, is used worldwide with great success for hyperhidrosis (heavy sweating). The positive results of this direct current therapy convince dermatologists in private practice and clinicians alike. It can be carried out in the practice but also at home after instruction. The time required (approx. 10 minutes daily) is minimal, the application simple and the total costs (one-time purchase and low operating costs) low. In addition, the efficiency is high. Already after 10 times of application the effect sets in. In cases of extreme sweating, the chance of success with the right device is about 98%. Iontophoresis devices are available for:
- The sweating on the hands and feet
- Against underarm perspiration
- Against sweating on the face
A special face mask with graphite fibers is offered against sweating on the T-zone. Iontophoresis, also called stimulation current therapy, is one of the therapeutic procedures in dermatology, in which weak electrical direct current acts on the skin. The absorption of active substances in ointment form is improved. The weak currents of the direct current produce virtually no side effects.Moreover, the treatment of hyperhidrosis does not require medication or even surgery. And yet, the efficiency of the effect is always convincing, even in professional circles. In tap water iontophoresis as a one- or two-cell bath with galvanic current, also known as electrogalvanic bath, hands or feet are immersed in tubs filled with normal tap water. The plate electrodes attached to the edge of the tub conduct the weak current (galvanic current), which can be regulated by a power supply unit, into the water. It should be known that the current flows only in one direction. And that is from one electrode to the other. Thanks to certain physical/chemical processes, biochemical cellular actions occur in the affected persons. The galvanic current causes desensitization and at the same time has a harmonizing effect on the highly irritated sweat glands. The therapy should be medically accompanied.
Risks, side effects and dangers
In general, iontophoresis, as well as tap water iontophoresis, is considered safe and highly efficient. However, there are some contraindications. Those who have a pacemaker, cardiodefibrillator, or metal implants implanted in their arms or legs cannot undergo iontophoresis. This therapy is also not suitable for women with an intrauterine device. Pregnancy also speaks against this treatment. Large skin defects or wounds as well as polyneuropathy, epilepsy and cardiac arrhythmia do not allow iontophoresis treatment, nor do severe local inflammations and thromboses (blood clots). Acute circulatory disorders, a damaged lymphatic system and dementia are also contraindicated. If malignant diseases are present in the area of application, iontophoresis treatment must be refrained from. If acute fever exists, iontophoresis must be temporarily suspended. Children under six years of age are excluded from treatment.
