Iontophoresis

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What is iontophoresis?

We use iontophoresis as a treatment for excessive sweating, hyperhydrosis, of the hands and feet.

Iontophoresis uses a simple device to treat excessive sweating of the hands (palmar hyperhidrosis) and feet (plantar hyperhidrosis). It is particularly useful for people who’ve tried prescription strength antiperspirants but find that they need a stronger treatment. Used correctly and adjusted to individual situations, iontophoresis has proven to have a very high success rate (83% according to the American Academy of Dermatology) for people with sweaty palms and sweaty feet.

Iontophoresis uses water to conduct a mild electrical current through the skin’s surface. It’s not entirely understood how or why iontophoresis works, but it’s believed that the electric current and mineral particles in the water work together to microscopically thicken the outer layer of the skin, which blocks the flow of sweat to the skin’s surface. Once this sweat output is blocked or interrupted, sweat production on the palms and soles is, often suddenly and dramatically, “turned off”.

Other Resources

International Hyperhidrosis Society provides information on iontophoresis and other treatments for excessive sweating.