Since 1968, tap water iontophoresis has been employed as the method of choice for treating palmoplantar hyperhidrosis.
Tap water iontophoresis is a treatment for excessive sweating that interferes with the sweat glands just below the outer layer of the skin. This treatment positively treats more than 90% of cases of patients with palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the hands or feet).
Iontophoresis causes no known side effects and its efficiency does not decrease over time.
Only slight skin irritation or sensations of discomfort may occur during treatment. Electric burns and shocks can be avoided by following routine precautions. Contraindications for tap water iontophoresis are metallic implants, such as cardiac pacemakers, or orthopaedic joint or bone implants, if they are within the electric circuit. Defects in the skin barrier, which cannot be protected by petroleum jelly or insulating tape, also represent a temporary contraindication. Treatment in pregnancy is contraindicated, since experience is lacking.
A simple 20-minute session once a week is often all it takes to achieve comfortable perspiration level.
During treatment, it is recommended inverting the polarity of the electric current halfway into the session for optimal treatment.
Iontophoresis is the perfect long-term treatment for palmar and plantar treatment.
Iontophoresis is particularly well adapted for treatment on flat surfaces. This makes it a perfect candidate for treating the sweating zones of the palms and feet. According to the Hyperhidrosis Network comparative review, Iontophoresis is the best treatment option for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis while also being the most cost-effective.
Contrary to cream or medication, tap water iontophoresis machines do not rely on potentially harmful chemicals. Since hyperhidrosis is a life-long condition, we promote the use of chemical free treatment. With a main powered Iontophoresis machine, a device can last many years without the need of replacement parts or batteries.
For more information, visit the website of the International Hyperhidrosis Society.
Frequently Asked Questions on Iontophoresis (external link)
Source : US National Library of Medecine - National Institues of Health
