Introduction:
Iontophoresis is a procedure where an electric current is passed through the skin to reduce sweating. The process is done with the skin soaked in tap water, saline, or a solution containing anticholinergic drugs. It is of great importance in a condition called hyperhidrosis, characterized by excessive sweating, which is of two types, namely primary and secondary hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis is due to gene changes, whereas secondary hyperhidrosis is due to some medical conditions.
What Are the Uses of Iontophoresis?
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Treat hyperhidrosis by delivering anticholinergic drugs like botulinum toxin A.
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Anesthetize an area with lignocaine.
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Treat fungal infections of the nails.
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Treat bursitis and tendonitis.
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Treat infections of resistant microorganisms with silver ions.
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Decreases muscle spasms.
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Decreases swelling and edema.
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Manages scar tissues.
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Reduces calcium deposits in the body.
Who Are Not Applicable for Iontophoresis?
Iontophoresis is not indicated in,
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Pregnant women.
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Individuals with a history of epilepsy or seizures.
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Individuals with an artificial pacemaker.
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Individuals with metal implants.
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Individuals with recent wounds or scars in the area.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
The hands and feet are placed in a water tray containing the electrodes and active substances. Petroleum jelly should be applied to wounds or cuts to prevent inflammation at the site. The device is switched on, allowing an electric current to pass through the water. The timing of the treatment is 20 to 30 minutes. The best result can be obtained only by regularly getting the treatment done once a week.
How Does Iontophoresis Work in Hyperhidrosis?
Sweat is produced because of the activation of nerves supplying the sweat glands. There are several ways by which sweat production is reduced using iontophoresis.
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The process of iontophoresis produces ions that block the ducts of the sweat glands in the stratum corneum.
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The nerve conduction can get blocked by the electric current.
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The accumulation of hydrogen ions in sweat glands leads to their pH drop.
Most iontophoresis sessions for hyperhidrosis take place only for 25 to 45 minutes. The changes in symptoms can be noticed only after multiple sessions. After several sessions, the doctor may also recommend buying a portable machine to use at home.
How Does Iontophoresis Work on Skin?
The active ingredients, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and tranexamic acid, can be delivered by iontophoresis to penetrate the skin's deep layers. Iontophoresis with vitamin C can treat acne, redness, enlarged pores, and skin dryness. Iontophoresis with vitamin C and tranexamic acid can treat pigmentation, dullness, and age spots. Vitamins A, C, and E are recommended to treat dryness, skin aging, and age spots.
How Does Iontophoresis Work for a Sports Injury?
In case of a sports injury, water is added with an anti-inflammatory drug, and the injured area is placed in water. A mild electric current is passed through the water, which produces a mild tingling sensation. The procedure takes only 10 to 15 minutes. Based on the severity of the injury, multiple appointments can be fixed in a single week for healing to be rapid. Regular maintenance heals the injury; however, side effects such as redness, irritation, and blisters are also noted. But they resolve within a few days.
How Does Iontophoresis Work for Cancer?
The chemotherapeutic drugs are delivered using iontophoresis to treat head and neck cancers. The delivery of the drug locally to only the affected area is beneficial as it reduces the risk of systemic toxicity. Anticancer drugs such as cisplatin and fluorouracil are delivered by iontophoresis to treat skin cancer. Other drugs delivered using iontophoresis are imatinib mesylate and STAT3 siRNA complex.
Is Iontophoresis Effective?
Iontophoresis is effective in treating hyperhidrosis involving the hands and feet. A marked improvement can be noticed in individuals within 2 to 4 weeks of treatment. The treatment will only be effective when repeated for 3 to 4 weeks. Though it is effective, it may result in certain side effects, such as dry skin, itching, and blisters which resolve within a few days.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks of Iontophoresis?
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The electrodes in the device should be avoided from direct contact as they may cause electric shock.
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Some individuals experience the feeling of being pricked by a needle.
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The treated may become dry.
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An area of redness with blisters can be noticed after the procedure.
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Dryness and peeling of the skin may occur.
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If anticholinergic drugs are used during the procedure, they may result in dry eyes and dry mouth.
However, these side effects resolve after a few days; moisturizers will give some added benefits to overcome the symptoms.
What Are the Tips to Be Followed?
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Learn the correct method of iontophoresis from a healthcare provider before doing it at home.
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Be prepared for the procedure. A person might feel a tingling sensation during the procedure.
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Do not take the hands and feet out of the water because the electric current passes. Do not need to worry as it is not enough to give shock.
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Take off the pieces of jewelry before the procedure.
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Cover sore spots with petroleum jelly as it does not allow iontophoresis.
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Use a moisturizer after the procedure, as it makes the skin dry.
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Use hydrocortisone cream to treat redness or irritation after the procedure.
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If the treatment does not work, consult the doctor for alternate treatment options.
Conclusion:
Iontophoresis is one painless, non-invasive technique for transdermal penetration of substances in a controlled manner. The advancements in recent decades have made the devices safe and cost-effective. The adverse effects of iontophoresis are usually neglected as their advantages are beyond it. The principle of iontophoresis has made it beneficial for various applications in various fields. However, it is essential to determine whether a person is eligible for the procedure and get the conditions treated.
