What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis means excessive sweating. It can be localized or can affect the whole body.
What is iontophoresis?
Iontophoresis is a safe and effective treatment for reducing excessive sweating of the hands and feet.
What does the treatment process involve?
It involves using an iontophoresis machine to pass a weak electrical current through the affected areas of skin. This is done by placing the hands and feet in a tray filled with tap water. A small current is passed through the water one way for a fixed duration of time and then polarity reversed for the same duration.
Are any medications required during the treatment process?
Generally, tap water is enough. Sometimes glycopyrrolate solution is added to enhance efficacy.
How does iontophoresis work?
There are various theories regarding exact mechanism:
- The electric current with mineral particles in the water blocks the flow of sweat by thickening the outer layer of skin.
- By decreasing the pH value in the sweat gland, it reduces the amount of sweat produced.
- The electric current disrupts nerve transmission thus preventing the functioning of sweat duct.
Who can anyone receive treatment?
Iontophoresis treatment indications and contraindications:
- Avoid if cardiac pacemaker or similar electronic device implant,
- Avoid if you have metal implants in pathway of electric current,
- Remove Jewelry during treatment process,
- Avoid in pregnancy
- The safe lower age limit for iontophoresis is 5 years.
Does it work for everyone?
After the recommended treatment sessions, up to 85% people report relief in palmo-planter hyperhidrosis. About 70% get reliefinaxillary/underarms hyperhidrosis. Iontophoresis works best when higher intensity currents are used, or the treatment regimen continued for longer duration.
Does it cure sweating?
The effects are short term and the treatment needs to be continued when the sweating returns. Maintenance treatments are required usually once weekly or fortnightly to control the excessive sweating.
What does the treatment process involve?
Treatment schedule involves 2-3 treatments /week over the course of 4 weeks. After this top-up sessions may be required on a weekly to monthly basis.
How long does each session take?
Each session lasts for an average 20-30 minutes.
Is it painful?
Some people may find the treatment uncomfortable. You may feel a stinging/tingling ‘pins and needles’ sensation during session.
What are the potential side effects?
Side effects are unusual and short lived.
Some people can experience:
- bruising or blisters if the current intensity is too high.
- a sensation of warmth if the electrode is touched.
- an electric sensation if hands or feet are removed from the tray’s midway through treatment.
- moderate thickening of the skin with frequent treatments,
- itchiness in treatment area
Where can I receive iontophoresis treatment in Delhi?
Iontophoresis treatment is available at DermaStation Clinic at Janakpuri, Delhi.