I Sweat Excessively, Does Iontophoresis Treatment Work?
Iontophoresis with Tap Water: Simple and Effective Hyperhidrosis Treatment: Iontophoresis with tap water is a safe, economical and simple method used in the treatment of excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). This treatment is performed by applying a low level of electric current to tap water. The current reduces sweating by creating a physical blockage in the layer of skin (stratum corneum) where the sweat glands are located.
How is the Treatment Applied?
Materials and Preparation:
Warm water is filled into shallow plastic containers where the hands and feet will be placed.
If there is damage to the skin on the palms, soles of the feet or around the nails, these areas are covered with Vaseline. This prevents burning or irritation of the skin.
Stainless steel or aluminum electrodes are used to conduct the electric current.
Treatment Process:
The hands and feet are immersed in water, then the current level is increased until a slight tingling sensation occurs.
The treatment duration is usually between 10-20 minutes.
3-4 sessions are applied per week during the first week.
A significant improvement is seen after an average of 5-10 sessions and a complete cure can be achieved after a total of 10-15 sessions.
Maintenance Sessions:
After the treatment is completed, 1-2 sessions are performed per week to maintain sweating control.
Success Rates
The success rate in hand and foot hyperhidrosis is close to 90%.
Full recovery is usually achieved within 20 days.
With battery-powered iontophoresis devices used at home, sweating has been reduced by 100% in the hands, 78% in the feet and 75% in the armpits.
Side Effects and Safety
Temporary skin irritation, tingling sensation or blisters filled with water (bullae) may occur during treatment. However, these effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Long-term use is safe and does not cause any serious side effects.
Combination Treatment with Anticholinergic Drugs
In some cases, treatment can be strengthened by adding anticholinergic drugs to tap water. These drugs allow the treatment effect to start faster and last longer.
However, since these drugs can have systemic side effects such as dry mouth, difficulty urinating or abdominal pain, they are generally used only if tap water treatment does not produce results.
Iontophoresis with tap water is an effective, effortless treatment method, especially for sweating hands and feet. It provides long-term sweating control when applied regularly.
