Iontophoresis
Iontophoresis is a non-invasive medical treatment consisting of the application of weak direct constant current via aqueous solution in which electrodes are placed. In hyperhidrosis treatment iontophoresis is used to block the function of sweat glands due to the effects of electric current which causes protein coagulation in sweat glands, thus leading to a decrease in sweat secretion.
Pulse iontophoresis
Beside constant current it is possible to use pulse iontophoresis, which uses pulsed direct current with pulsing up to a few thousand pulses per second (5-10 kHz). This way it is possible to apply higher levels of current painlessly to speed up the effects.
History of iontophoresis
The use of iontophoresis has been known since 1800, when the method started to be used for delivering ionized substances and pharmacokinetics through skin. Iontophoresis has been used for treating hyperhidrosis since the second half of the 20th century.
Application
Iontophoresis can be used for excessive sweating of feet, palms, armpits and other parts of the body.The onset of the therapeutic effect is rapid and with regular usage also permanent. The current setting is highly individual, we recommend setting, which is bearable to achieve the maximum comfort and effect. A general schedule of the treatment is as follows:
| Type of problematic sweating | Timing | Frequency of use | Recommended duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extreme sweating | 1st week | Daily | 15 - 25 minutes |
| 2nd – 4th week | Three times a week | 15 - 25 minutes | |
| 1st – 3rd month | Once a week | 15 - 25 minutes | |
| > | Once a month | 15 - 25 minutes | |
| Excessive sweating | 1st week | Three times a week | 15 - 25 minutes |
| 2nd – 4th week | Once a week | 15 - 25 minutes | |
| > | Once a month | 15 - 25 minutes | |
| Increased sweating | 1st week | Three times a week | 10 - 20 minutes |
| 1st – 2nd month | Once a week | 10 - 20 minutes | |
| > | Once a month | 10 - 20 minutes |
Using iontophoresis
Hands or feet are immersed in a container filled with tap water (tap water has usually enough salts for current conduction), and are exposed to the effect of the current. As the lumen of sweat ducts conducts electricity better than the surrounding tissue (thanks to present of chlorine and other ions), the intensity of the current causes protein coagulation and blocks the sweat ducts. This significantly reduces sweating but at the same does not suppress the normal physiological functions (if the schedule is kept).