Iontophoresis can be used to treat localized hyperhidrosis, by diffusing a low electric current on the skin surface that reduces sweat production.
Summary
Treatment of hyperhidrosis by iontophoresis consists in placing the hands or feet, depending on the area affected, in water-filled tanks for 15 to 20 minutes through which a low electric current is passed, regulated by a machine designed especially for this purpose.
Iontophoresis can also be used to treat axillary hyperhidrosis. The treatment consists in placing sponges soaked in water and through which an electric current is passed under the armpits. However, this method is both less accurate and less effective.
Iontophoresis is painless, it causes a slight tingling sensation at most. It can be performed at home and in the offices of dermatologists equipped with a machine.
Several sessions are necessary to initiate the treatment, then to maintain its effects over the long term. At first, three to six sessions are required a week, followed by once or twice a week in the maintenance phase.
An improvement is usually observed after about ten sessions. If you want to use iontophoresis to treat excessive perspiration, it is therefore important to have regular sessions.
There are lots of hypotheses concerning its mechanisms of action. They include mechanical obstruction of the sweat glands and a stimuli dysfunction.
It is a treatment that’s proposed in case of moderate palmar or plantar hyperhidrosis.
Patients generally respond well to it when used regularly.
Iontophoresis cannot be prescribed in some cases, for example in case of pregnancy, or if the person has a pacemaker, a prosthesis or a metallic intrauterine device. If in doubt, do not hesitate to talk to your doctor.
