Iontophoresis

Does it work?

After one cycle of treatment, up to 85% of people with symptoms in the hands and feet will find relief. It is slightly less successful in the treatment of underarm sweating but there is up to a 70% success rate. As success is related to the direct effect of the electrical current on the skin, iontophoresis works best when higher currents are used, or the treatment is carried out for longer.

Iontophoresis is generally considered to be safe and well-tolerated, and it has few side effects when used as directed. However, it is important to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.

How many sessions are needed?

For hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), the treatment involves daily or weekly sessions over several weeks, followed by a maintenance schedule of less frequent sessions to keep the symptoms under control.

The duration of each session will vary depending on the individual case, but typically ranges from 20 to 40 minutes.

It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan and attend all scheduled sessions to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Iontophoresis has several potential benefits, including:

Localised treatment: Since iontophoresis delivers the medication or therapeutic agent directly to the target area, it can provide a more targeted and localised treatment than other delivery methods.

Reduced systemic side effects: By delivering drugs directly to the affected area, iontophoresis can potentially reduce the risk of systemic side effects that can occur when drugs are taken orally or injected.

Safe and well-tolerated: Iontophoresis is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with few reported side effects when used as directed.

However, it is important to note that not all conditions can be treated with iontophoresis, and the effectiveness of the treatment may vary depending on the individual case. It is always important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

The course lasts over a month. The treatment will always start on a Tuesday:

• First week on days 1, 2 and 4
• Second week on days 7 and 10
• Third week on day 15
• Fourth week on day 22.

Depending on the site of treatment, you may need to remove your top to expose the armpits otherwise you can roll up your sleeves or remove your socks and shoes.

Metal piercings will need to be removed during the treatment.

The treatment involves placing the affected sites (hands and/or feet) in a water bath just covering approximately halfway up the affected areas, a low dosage electrical current will then be passed through. You will need to remain in position for 20-40 minutes.

Hands and feet can be treated at the same time, but the axilla will need a separate treatment. Each treatment will take 20-40 minutes, so if the axilla and hands are being treated it will take over an hour.

Most patients feel a tingling sensation which lasts for a while after the session, but it is expected that you will be able to go home and carry on with normal household tasks following treatment.