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The power of electricity manages key aspects of our lives and can help control our health.
Iontophoresis is the motion of particles through a fluid. In medical usage, an electrical current causes the particles to pass into and beneath the skin. An established treatment for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) although the procedure has wider applications.
Uses can include anesthesia for minor surgery, reducing tissue inflammation, helping with musculoskeletal issues such as neck pain, or tennis elbow, treating burns, or feeding drugs into tumours.
The ability to deliver medication, or active agents through the skin without a needle is valuable. Compounds in solution are transferred painlessly, via electrical potential.
There are times when additional agents are adopted for hyperhidrosis treatment, to augment the natural properties of ionised water.
Iontophoresis & Hyperhidrosis
Research into iontophoresis is growing, as a way to test the health of cells, the properties of drugs and to improve treatment.
In the case of hyperhidrosis, the effect is well understood, through the benefits of active minerals within the base water solution, or alongside medication.
There are additional factors which may play a part, thickening the skin to block the flow of sweat, reducing nerve activity, slightly increasing acidity within the sweat gland.
Although not a permanent cure, iontophoresis is non invasive, pain free and has a high success rate.
Treatment In Practise
When you see our consultant dermatologist, they will ensure iontophoresis is appropriate in a medical sense and safe for you.
Should you have a pacemaker, other metal implants, a coil, or conditions such as certain tumours, or thrombosis, or are pregnant, another option is likely to be better.
For most people, the low voltage, direct, or pulsed current is harmless. Even so, you are using an electrical appliance, the approach needs to be correct, for safety and effectiveness.
Treatment normally consists of a number of sessions over the first few weeks, then regular top ups. Patients often prefer to receive these at our clinic, although a machine at home can be an option.
Both ourselves and leading dermatology bodies would suggest you at least begin treatment for hyperhidrosis at a specialist clinic. To ensure this is right for you, holds no risk and to go forward efficiently.
Being shown how to use an iontophoresis machine in the correct way matters, as does the type you purchase. Our staff will assist with these points and any you wish to raise, by all means get in touch.