Iontophoresis
Iontophoresis (pronounced eye-on-toe-fo-ree-sis), has been a reliable, trusted, and effective solution for hyperhidrosis for nearly a century. The oldest literature on iontophoresis treatment for hyperhidrosis can be traced back as far back as the 1930s! It has long been used to treat palmoplantar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the hands and feet), notoriously difficult areas to treat, and is now commonly used to treat axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating) and other areas of the body. Since its introduction, it has undergone significant developments, which have made it one of the go-to treatments for hyperhidrosis. It is often classified as a first or second-line treatment option for those who traditional antiperspirants have not worked.
Iontophoresis treatment is done with a medical device, referred to as a tap water iontophoresis machine. It can be done in a clinical setting under medical supervision, but it is more commonly done at home with a compact and user-friendly home-use device, such as Dermadry.
What is iontophoresis?
Iontophoresis is a non-invasive, drug-free, and needle-free way to treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). It utilizes tap water and electrical current to temporarily stop the production of sweat, making it one of the few instances where mixing water and electricity is recommended! So, how does it work? Let’s start by break down the word:Ionto (Ion)
an electrically charged molecule
+
Phoresis
Transmission (Movement)
=
Iontophoresis
The movement of ions.
How does iontophoresis work?
During treatment, the iontophoresis device is plugged into a power source (an outlet), which delivers a mild electrical current to the treatment area, using the minerals found in tap water as a conductor. The current reaches the skin, which is slightly covered in water, through the conductive metal electrodes. A protective barrier such as a towel or sponge placed over the electrodes to protect the skin during treatment, provide adequate comfort, and even treatment over the entire zone. The passage of the mild electrical current disrupts the signal between the nerves and sweat glands and halts sweat production in the treated zone. While the exact mechanism of action is still unknown (there are a few scientific theories), what is known is that it is an extremely effective way to treat even the most serious cases of hyperhidrosis. Need to visualize it? Watch how simple it is to do an iontophoresis treatment below! On the left you will find a tutorial for hands & feet, and on the right you will find a tutorial for underarms!Watch how easy it is to set up and use Dermadry!
Watch a Demo
Is iontophoresis effective?
Iontophoresis is a safe, effective, and cost-efficient way to treat mild to severe cases of hyperhidrosis. A summary of results derived from clinical studies spanning several decades puts the success rate of iontophoresis in the 90-100% range. A breakdown of these studies can be found below. Additionally, an internal survey conducted on 749 Dermadry users found that 98.3% of respondents stated they experienced a reduction in their sweat levels, putting Dermadry’s success rate well within the higher range of success rates reported in clinical studies. To fully understand and maximise the efficiency of iontophoresis, as well as to get the most out of your iontophoresis treatment, it is important to understand the treatment phases and schedule. Iontophoresis treatment is split into two treatment phases: the initial phase and the maintenance phase. Treatment frequency depends on the level of hyperhidrosis: mild, moderate, or severe.
Initial Phase
The initial phase is the first phase of treatment that is done until the user attains their desired level of dryness. During the initial phase, the treatment will be performed up to 5x a week at the highest comfortable setting for up to 6 weeks. Most people achieve their desired results within 2 weeks.Maintenance Phase
Once the patient has attained their desired level of dryness in the initial phase, they will then go on to the maintenance phase. A maintenance schedule must be maintained to upkeep results. The frequency can be as little as once every few weeks, depending on the severity of the hyperhidrosis.The Story Behind Dermadry’s Iontophoresis Machines
One of the founding members of Dermadry struggled with hyperhidrosis since adolescence. After trying countless treatment options, such as traditional antiperspirants and creams, he was dissatisfied with the lack of results he was obtaining. With anxiety mounting as sweat made social interaction increasingly challenging as he entered university, he began researching treatments for hyperhidrosis, and he came across iontophoresis. Iontophoresis seemed like a promising solution with under tapped potential—it was not being properly exploited as a treatment option for hyperhidrosis. The machines available at the time were either completely outdated, ineffective, and very costly—and generally all three. They were inaccessible to most, and so he decided to take matters into his own sweaty hands and develop a new iontophoresis device with effectiveness, modernity, safety, and cost-efficiency in mind, which is when Dermadry came into existence. Dermadry was developed as the answer to the lack of availability, archaic designs, and absence of user-friendly interfaces of traditional iontophoresis machines. These outdated devices negatively impacted efficiency, and put a lot of people off to the idea of it as a viable treatment option deserving of recognition in the medical sphere. We were not satisfied with the fleeting results obtained with clunky analog devices sold at exorbitant prices, so we did something about it. We didn’t feel comfortable with these devices that could cause pain and shocks, and we didn’t think anyone else should either.
Iontophoresis machines were deserving of a much-needed upgrade, so we designed a device fitting for modern times that we were so personally satisfied with that we were proud to use on ourselves. We shared it with the world to make iontophoresis a better-known, safer, more-effective and trusted solution within the medical community and beyond. We firmly believe that iontophoresis is the safest, most-efficient, and cost-effective solution for hyperhidrosis. Our founder’s first-hand experience with the condition is what gave us the often lacking insight as to what someone with hyperhidrosis is looking for in a treatment option. Those with hyperhidrosis will know that traditional creams and antiperspirants are simply not enough, systemic medications cause serious and potential long-term side effects, and injections are painful and recurring—just to name a few. Iontophoresis checks off a lot of boxes on what can be referred to as a “hyperhidrosis treatment checklist”. Iontophoresis is easy-to-use, requires minimal effort on the user’s part, and provides long-lasting results that are easy to maintain. It is a natural, drug-free and non-systemic treatment option associated with minimal side effects that are temporary and localized to the treatment zone (redness and irritation). Iontophoresis is done at home, and does not require access to a doctor or specialist, and therefore does not require any travel time or recurring clinic visits. Simply put, it’s the treatment of choice to save you time, money, and effort, without sacrificing efficiency or results. Iontophoresis adapts to your schedule and lifestyle, rather than the other way around, so you can finally stop letting hyperhidrosis control your life.
How iontophoresis compares to other hyperhidrosis treatments
Discover why Dermadry is the best way to get dry
Antiperspirants
Affordable
BUT
Very Low EfficiencyB. Toxin Injections
High Efficiency
BUT
Painful & ExpensiveDrugs
Treats Entire Body at the Same Time
BUT
Multiple Major Side EffectsDermadry ®
High Efficiency, Minimal Side Effects, and Affordable
BUT
Maintenance Treatments RequiredDermadry Customer Case Studies
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Iontophoresis treatment helped Alexandra regain her confidence and get her freedom back.
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The science behind Dermadry's iontophoresis machine
A lot of clinical research has been conducted on the effectiveness and safety of tap water iontophoresis in the treatment of hyperhidrosis, and how it can improve patient quality of life. Every year, more studies are being conducted, as iontophoresis gains popularity as a treatment option for hyperhidrosis. Studies have consistently proven that iontophoresis is a simple, safe, economic, and effective treatment option for hyperhidrosis. It is a treatment option that medical professionals often suggest or prescribe to their patients when conventional antiperspirants fail. It is the preferred treatment option of many and is generally prescribed prior to toxin injections, surgical intervention, and long-term drug therapy. It is a treatment option for hyperhidrosis that can provide long-term results with minimal side effects. Below is an overview of some studies conducted on the efficiency and safety of iontophoresis treatment to treat hyperhidrosis. The following clinical studies were performed on patients aged 8-71 years old with primary focal hyperhidrosis (mild, moderate, and severe). These clinical studies evaluated the efficiency of iontophoresis in both clinical conditions (performed by healthcare professionals in a medical facility) and at home (patients were provided with devices and performed treatments on their own). The treatment parameters were similar in regards to the current strength, treatment duration, and treatment frequency.
___________
Effectiveness
The studies below were conducted on patients aged 8 to 71 with primary focal hyperhidrosis, mild through severe, treated both in clinical settings and at home. Treatment parameters were comparable across studies in current strength, session length, and frequency.
Randomized, sham-controlled trial
Active iontophoresis compared against sham treatment
| Outcome | Active treatment | Sham | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical improvement on starch-iodine test | 92.9% | 38.5% | p = 0.001 |
| Reduction in mean sweat secretion rate | 91.8% | 39.1% | p < 0.001 |
| Reported improvement in quality of life | 78.6% | 30.8% | p = 0.028 |
Response rates reported in other studies
-
88.9%
24 of 27 patients
Good response in patients with idiopathic palmoplantar hyperhidrosis. Most found the maintenance schedule compatible with their lifestyle.8
Walia NS, Rathore BS, Jaiswal AK. Medical Journal Armed Forces India, 2000. -
83.3%
15 of 18 subjects
Became euhidrotic, meaning sweating returned to a normal rate. One hand was treated and the other served as the control.15
Stolman LP. Archives of Dermatology, 1987. -
7 of 7
no treatment failures
Complete relief from excessive sweating of the palms and soles, with no treatment failure observed in the group.18
Hölzle E, Ruzicka T. Dermatology, 1986.
What the wider literature concludes
Safety and tolerability
- A simple, safe, and effective therapeutic option for palmoplantar hyperhidrosis.10
- Safe, effective, and easy to use for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis.14
- Safe for unsupervised treatment at home when the instructions are followed.15
- No adverse effects were observed during long-term maintenance treatment.16
Children and adolescents
- Safe and effective for both palmoplantar and axillary hyperhidrosis in pediatric patients, with minimal side effects.11
- An effective method of treatment for primary palmoplantar and axillary hyperhidrosis in pediatric patients.12
Where it sits among treatment options
- Should be offered to patients before surgical intervention or toxin injection.14
- A suitable alternative to long-term drug therapy.15
- Recommended over surgical excision of the sweat glands for axillary hyperhidrosis.17
- Controls palmar hyperhidrosis after a total of eight treatments.13
Long-term use and clinical consensus
- Improves the patient's quality of life significantly during treatment.6
- Curbs sweating and also reduces lividity, edema, and clamminess of the palms and soles.16
- The method of choice for treating palmoplantar hyperhidrosis since 1968.19
- A 2014 FDA review found that all 8 studies it assessed reported effective sweat reduction in the majority of subjects treated.20
Sample sizes in the iontophoresis literature are small, which is typical for a treatment studied largely before modern trial standards. The sham-controlled trial above is the most rigorous design in this set. Full citations are listed in the bibliography below.
Show full bibliography ...
Treatment Duration & Results
- Quality of life improved in 78.6% of patients after 2 weeks.
- 92.9% of patients saw results after two weeks of iontophoresis treatments.
- The study demonstrates that tap water iontophoresis controls palmar (hands) hyperhidrosis after a total of eight treatments.
Safety
- Tap water iontophoresis is a safe and effective treatment for both palmoplantar (hands and feet) hyperhidrosis and axillary (underarms) hyperhidrosis in the pediatric population, with minimal side effects.
- Tap water iontophoresis is a simple, safe and effective therapeutic option for palmoplantar hyperhidrosis.
- Iontophoresis treatment is safe, effective, and easy to use for the treatment of palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis. This technique should be offered to patients with palmoplantar hyperhidrosis prior to surgical intervention or toxin injection.
- Tap water iontophoresis suppresses palmar hyperhidrosis. When instructions are followed, tap water iontophoresis is safe for unsupervised treatment of hyperhidrosis. Iontophoresis is a simple, economic and effective therapy that should be offered to patients for control of palmar hyperhidrosis prior to surgical intervention. Iontophoresis is also a suitable alternative to long-term drug therapy. The study demonstrated a success rate of 83.3%.
Impact on Quality of Life
- Tap water iontophoresis treatments improve the patient’s quality of life significantly during treatment.
- Quality of life improved in 78.6% of patients after 2 weeks.
Iontophoresis FAQ
What is iontophoresis?
Tap water iontophoresis is a non-invasive, drug-free, and needle-free way to treat hyperhidrosis.How much does iontophoresis cost?
Home-use iontophoresis devices can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. Dermadry is the most cost-effective iontophoresis machine that treats all 3 zones most commonly affected by hyperhidrosis: the hands, feet, and underarms.How long does iontophoresis take to work?
The amount of time it takes to see results from iontophoresis treatment varies by person. Most people see a sweat reduction after 1-2 weeks of treatment. For mild cases, it can take just one treatment to see results, and for the most severe cases of hyperhidrosis, it can take several weeks. Always stick to your treatment schedule and do not stop treatment if you feel discouraged. For some, it just takes longer to see results.How successful is iontophoresis?
Success rates in clinical studies performed on analyzing the efficiency of iontophoresis treatment for hyperhidrosis generally range between 90%-100% of people treated.Does iontophoresis really work?
Iontophoresis is one of the safest, most efficient and cost-effective treatment options for hyperhidrosis, and is effective in nearly all cases. It is non-invasive, drug-free, and needle-free. Clinical study success rates range between 90-100% of patients treated.How much does iontophoresis cost?
Home-use iontophoresis devices can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. Dermadry is the most cost-effective iontophoresis machine that treats all 3 zones most commonly affected by hyperhidrosis: the hands, feet, and underarms.How often should iontophoresis be done?
The frequency of iontophoresis treatments depends on the patient’s level of hyperhidrosis (mild, moderate or severe). There are 2 phases to iontophoresis treatment: the initial phase and maintenance phase. Consult Dermadry’s Instructions For Use manual to create a treatment schedule that works for you and your lifestyle.What are the benefits of iontophoresis?
Some benefits of iontophoresis are that it is a non-invasive, needle-free, drug-free treatment option. It is safe and effective and has only minor limited side effects in comparison to other treatments for hyperhidrosis. Maintaining the results attained with iontophoresis treatment can drastically improve the patient’s quality of life.Is iontophoresis safe?
Iontophoresis has been used to treat hyperhidrosis for nearly a century. It is one of the safest and most effective ways to treat hyperhidrosis. It is often prescribed to hyperhidrosis patients who have had no luck with regular antiperspirants. It is a non-invasive, drug-free, and needle-free treatment option.Can iontophoresis stop working?
You will not build a tolerance to iontophoresis treatment, so it will not stop working. The effects of iontophoresis treatment may diminish after time, which is why a maintenance schedule must be followed to upkeep your desired level of dryness.What does iontophoresis feel like?
A slight tingling sensation may be felt during iontophoresis treatment. The level of sensation depends on the patient’s skin sensitivity, and the level of the current. Generally, as more iontophoresis treatments are performed, the patient gets used to the feeling and can tolerate higher current levels.Is iontophoresis for everyone?
Iontophoresis treatment is suitable for most people. Some contraindications include metal implants, cardiac pacemakers, and heart problems. A full list of contraindications can be viewed below. If you are unsure, speak to a medical professional.What are the side effects of iontophoresis?
Iontophoresis is associated with minor limited side effects such as skin tingling, irritation, and redness.Will I sweat more from somewhere else if I use iontophoresis on my hands, feet, and/or underarms?
No, compensatory sweating is not a side-effect of iontophoresis treatment. Iontophoresis treatment will halt the excess production of sweat in the treated zone, but have no effect on any other untreated area of the body. The sweat that is diminishing in the treated zone will not resurface elsewhere.Are homemade iontophoresis machines safe?
Homemade DIY iontophoresis machines run an increased risk of side effects. There is no way to control the current level and output and there are no safety measures in homemade iontophoresis devices. Iontophoresis devices, such as Dermadry, undergo vigorous testing and are equipped with many safety parameters to ensure user safety and efficient treatment.What areas can be treated with iontophoresis?
The hands, feet, and underarms are most commonly treated with iontophoresis, as clinical studies have demonstrated the efficiency and safety of iontophoresis treatment in these 3 zones.Is iontophoresis a permanent treatment?
Iontophoresis is not a permanent treatment, but can provide long-lasting dryness as long as a maintenance schedule is adequately followed.Why Dermadry is the Best Choice
Dermadry's iontophoresis device distinguishes itself through its affordability, intuitive use, and its cutting-edge technology. We offer an all-in-one solution for people who suffer from excessive sweating of the hands, feet, and underarms also known as palmar, plantar, and axillary hyperhidrosis. Our products are tailored to meet specific customer needs, whether an individual sweats only from their hands and feet, only from their underarms or from all three areas. Dermadry is a trusted solution, as showcased on the website of the non-profit organization the International Hyperhidrosis Society. In late 2018, Dermadry became the first and remains the only iontophoresis device with an active medical device license and authorized for sale by Health Canada. In February 2020, Dermadry’s iontophoresis became FDA-cleared for the treatment of hyperhidrosis.
We have helped thousands of people around the globe achieve the dryness they deserve to live comfortably and confidently sweat-free. Dermadry has been prescribed and recommended by healthcare professionals around the world, and has become the go-to solution for dermatologists seeking the best treatment option for their hyperhidrosis patients. We are continuously pursuing our mission to raise awareness of hyperhidrosis, and have done so through several initiatives including launching the Dermadry Hyperhidrosis Scholarship and the Voices of Hyperhidrosis awareness campaign. We are dedicated to empowering the lives of those affected by hyperhidrosis through education, awareness, and enriching their quality of life through adequate treatment. We strive to make iontophoresis treatment better-known and more accessible to all, and are constantly researching and developing our device to make it available in more parts of the world.
Is Dermadry Right For Me? *
Intended Use:
Dermadry is a home-use tap water iontophoresis device designed for single patient use. It is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe palmar, plantar, and axillary hyperhidrosis by those 13 years and older.NOTE: Iontophoresis treatment is suitable for nearly everyone, though our list of contraindications must be referred to before commencing treatment. Please refer to the list below to know if Dermadry is right for you.
Classification
In Canada, tap water iontophoresis machines are a Class II medical device.Contraindications
DO NOT use this device if you have any of the following conditions:- Cardiac pacemaker
- ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator)
- Suspected or diagnosed heart problems (e.g. cardiac arrhythmia)
- Seizure disorders (epilepsy)
- Pregnant or suspected pregnancy
- Metal-containing intrauterine device (IUD)
- Metallic implants
- Large skin lesions and lesions that cannot be covered with petroleum jelly
- Numbness in the treated areas
- Infections or irritated skin
- Impaired sensation in hands, underarms or feet (e.g. polyneuropathy)
- Malignant disorders in the area of application
- Severe vascular disorders (e.g. local inflammation or thrombosis)
Side Effects
Some of the potential side-effects associated with iontophoresis treatment include:- Irritation, skin reddening (erythema), burning sensation, small blisters (vesiculation), and itching (pruritus). Wait until symptoms disappear completely before starting your next treatment.
- Tingling and stinging sensations. Muscle numbness (paresthesia) may occur. Slight pain could be felt at the beginning of the treatment or after the polarity alternating sequence. If you feel any of the above side effects, reduce intensity during next treatment.
- Increased sweating: After the first few treatments, you may experience an increase in sweating. This symptom will subside after a few treatments.
- Small electric shocks during treatment: In very rare cases, a harmless electric shock may occur if treatment is interrupted suddenly. To avoid this risk, remove your hands, feet or underarm electrodes slowly.
- Skin dryness: Skin may become dry, small lesions or scaling may occur. To reduce these symptoms, use a moisturizing cream after treatments.
- Aluminum may cause minor allergic reactions for some users. They may develop red, bumpy, scaly, itchy or swollen skin at the point of contact. If you notice any allergic reaction developing on the treated area of skin, stop using the device and contact Dermadry’s Customer Service.
* / For complete and detailed information, including contraindications, side effects, and proper usage instructions, please refer to the instruction manual provided with the device. The instruction manual contains all essential guidance as required by applicable regulations.
Dermadry’s Tips: Getting the Most Out of Your Iontophoresis Treatments
The key to maintaining your results with iontophoresis is to maintain a proper treatment schedule. Iontophoresis is an effective way to treat palmar, plantar, and axillary hyperhidrosis in nearly all cases, though it is important to remember that the success of the treatment relies on several factors, which we have listed below:- The frequency of treatments is dependent upon the severity of the hyperhidrosis, for both the initial phase and the maintenance phase.
- The treatment must be done with tap water, as the use of tap water ensures uniform treatment over the targeted areas. The minerals in tap water are what conduct the electricity
- The treatment’s success partly depends on the current strength that is used, and providing an adequate level of current on the targeted area will reduce sweat in most cases.. Higher current strengths are more effective and should be used for severe sweating.
- The treatment strength should be changed in accordance with skin sensitivity. We recommend using the highest level of current you are comfortable with, and building up as you get used to the sensation.
- Hands and feet can tolerate a higher current strength than underarms, this is why our machine has preset limits.
- Following the initial treatment phase, results must be maintained by following a treatment schedule.
Bibliography