What is Iontophoresis?
Iontophoresis is a process that was designed to treat hyperhidrosis via an iontophoretic drug delivery system also known as an iontophoresis machine. Hyperhidrosis is a condition that affects approximately 7.8 million people from around the world, for each one of these people they have to go through the stigmatization and embarrassment of sweating in public.
Several treatment strategies have been developed and implemented in an effort to treat hyperhidrosis effectively and safely. These range from:
- topical therapeutics (e.g. aluminium chloride in ethanol),
- drugs which disrupt the anti-cholinergic system (e.g. glycopyrrolate),
- botulinum toxin (i.e. Botox)
- surgery
However, as you can imagine – these treatment options have limitations and adverse effects. For example, the anti-cholinergic drugs which are routinely used to control the symptoms of excessive perspiration are associated with a myriad of worrisome side-effects such as constipation, visual blurring, drowsiness, giddiness, dry eyes and dry mouth.
Even though Botox injections have seen a modest degree of success in ameliorating hyperhidrosis, they are limited by their high cost-burden and the need for multiple injections which can be painful – furthermore, each injection represents an invasive procedure that is associated with a small but not insignificant risk of bleeding and infection.
Surgical therapy in the form of an endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is also an effective treatment modality for hyperhidrosis, but this is a drastic and costly measure that is typically reserved as an absolute last resort for patients who have debilitating hyperhidrosis and have failed all other treatment options available.
History of Iontophoresis
Mechanism of Action
Procedure for Iontophoresis
Effectiveness of Iontophoresis
Safety & Limitations of Iontophoresis
Buying an Iontophoresis Machine
With the purchase of an iontophoresis machine you can start to get rid of that uncomfortable feeling you get from sweating in public. Using small amounts of electricity, an iontophoresis machine treats the sweat glands in the areas affected. Typical treatment with an iontophoresis machine starts out at three treatments per week. This continues on until you have the desired dryness in the treatment area. Then treatments drop down to one per week for most people.
We have done some research and found some of the best iontophoresis machines on the market. Each one of these machines was picked because they have a 4.5 star rating or above. They are also picked because they have been found to be among the most effective on the market. One of the devices even holds the record for most effective in clinical studies across the world.
Keep reading to find your next iontophoresis machine and to change your life forever…
Best Iontophoresis Machine Comparison 🏅
# | Product Image | Iontophoresis Machine | Current Type | Coupon Code | Latest Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Hidrex PSP-1000 | Pulsed Current | No | Check Price | |
2 | Idromed 5 PS | Pulsed Current | No | Check Price | |
3 | Dermadry | Pulsed Current | $50 Off | Check Price | |
4 | Electro Antiperspirant Elite | Pulsed Current | 5% discount | Check Price | |
5 | R.A Fischer MD-1a | Direct Current | No | Check Price |
Electro Antiperspirant Elite
From Electro Antiperspirant comes the Electro Antiperspirant Elite, a high rated device. With the addition of extra applicators, you can treat many of the regions of the body that suffer from hyperhidrosis. This iontophoresis machine is both battery powered and AC wall powered and as such can be used for both home and away usage.
In clinical trials this device provided 100% effectiveness. This is the only device in the world to do so. It is also the only device on our list which allows for treating both the hands and the feet at the same time.
With a high level of control options, it is acceptable for both home and clinic usage. It comes with an EU certificate but this machine is yet to be approved by the FDA for the US market. Despite the high cost, you will be getting a very effective iontophoresis machine. For those on a budget, you can get a lower end version on their website.
read more about Electro Antiperspirant Elite
Use the Coupon code 100%DRY to save 5% on all their products.
Dermadry
The Dermadry iontophoresis machine is a safe, convenient and easy to use option for hyperhidrosis sufferers. What sets it apart from other brands on the market is the good value for money that it offers, as well as the sophisticated technology utilized to ease excessive sweating.
Wherever you experience sweating- whether it is on your palms, soles or underarms- Dermadry is a viable and practical solution. All manner of personalized products are available, catered to meet your individual needs, With a combination of ordinary tapwater and a targeted electrical current, if used as part of a sustained treatment regimen Dermadry has been proven to offer effective and long-lasting relief.
Its reliability has been demonstrated in clinical studies where its iontophoresis method was shown to relieve excessive sweating in 100% of cases. It has even been recommended by the International Hyperhidrosis Society, and is usable by those aged thirteen and over.
For more details read our full Dermadry Review
Use the Coupon code IM50 to save $50 on this machine before the end of January 2023
Hidrex PSP-1000
With the power of a Hidrex, this unit has sold over 20,000 devices. With a modern look, it isn’t all about appearances with this machine. It is flexible and capable of delivery both direct and variable pulse. The success rate is very high with this iontophoresis machine and it is FDA approved.
As far as iontophoresis machines go, this unit is relatively expensive but it is also one of the most effective on the market. In fact, it is among the most expensive public use devices. There is also a lower model of this unit available for around $695.
R.A. Fischer Iontophoresis Unit MD-1a
You might look at the R.A. Fischer Unit MD-1a iontophoresis machine and think that it looks pretty bland and we wouldn’t argue that with you. With the appearance of professional medical equipment, this unit is powerful. It is also FDA-approved meaning insurance might be able to cover part or all of the cost of the device.
For those that want to be able to treat the underarm area, you can order sponge pads for the device.
In order to purchase the R.A. Fischer Unit MD-1a you will need to get a prescription. Without the assistance of insurance, the device is also pretty expensive. For more information call R.A. Fisher (Phone: 800-525-3467)
Idromed 5 PS
The look of this little device is quite unique but the display screen helps to make it a very extensive machine. You can monitor just about everything the unit is doing.
A variety of body part pads and treatment equipment can be purchased in order to increase the areas treatable by the Idromed 5 PS. With a two year warranty and 8 week money back guarantee this is a pretty safe buy.
The major con of this machine is that it is relatively expensive, running around $710 or 675 euros. It is another one of the most expensive units you will find on our website. The screen on this device contributes towards the overall cost.
Advantages of Iontophoresis Machines
Iontophoresis machines are one of the safest medical devices out there and that alone is a very big pro. That fact also means that there will be a lot of other benefits out there.
- Only weakly treatments are required after initial treatment phase
- Very versatile treatment options
- Inexpensive
- Very little risk to the body (safe to use)
- Improved confidence
- Insurance will cover FDA approved devices
Disadvantages of Iontophoresis Machines
In the modern medical world you are used to seeing a long list of side effects and potential disadvantages of treatments. With this treatment that is different. The process is extremely safe and even painless if you use a iontophoresis machines with pulsed current.
- Initial treatment phase is 3 times per week
- Electricity settings need to monitored to determine proper treatment
- Water cannot be too soft
- May require a prescription and referral depending on your state and insurance
- Potential Side Effects
Some people may also notice the following side effects:
- A tingling feeling
- Dryness of the skin after using the iontophoresis machine
- Blistering, peeling, and/or irritation of the treatment area
Most side effects from iontophoresis will go away with time and can be treated with moisturizer or over the counter hydrocortisone.
Iontophoresis FAQ
Who invented Iontophoresis?
How does the Iontophoresis machine work?
Does Iontophoresis work in all the cases?
What is an Iontophoresis patch?
Can iontophoresis machines be used by everyone affected by hyperhidrosis?
Can iontophoresis machines be used for any body part?
- Armpits
- Feet (very effective)
- Hands (very effective)
- Facial, forehead, and Scalp
- Armpit/Underarm
- Legs
How quickly can I expect to see results?
Can this device be dangerous, after all, Iontophoresis works by electric current?
Does Iontophoresis cause pain or hurt?
What are the contradictions for Iontophoresis?
What are the side effects of Iontophoresis?
Can Iontophoresis cause an electric shock?
Can Iontophoresis provide a permanent cure for excessive sweating?
Who performs Iontophoresis treatment?
Will insurance companies pay for Iontophoresis?
How much does the Iontophoresis treatment cost?
How much would an Iontophoresis machine cost?
What features should I look for in Iontophoresis machine?
Does it take a lot to succeed with Iontophoresis therapy?
Conclusion
Buying an iontophoresis machine is a big step in your life. We don’t just mean that cost wise either. Without excessive sweating in your life you will find that you are able to wear the clothes you want and feel more confident in yourself. At an average of only one treatment required per week, you will find that it is also easy to accommodate.
Take the time to read through each of the devices listed here and visit the seller’s website. This will give you all of the information that you need to make the right decision on the device to treat your hyperhidrosis.
References
Batheja, P., Thakur, R. and Michniak, B. (2006) ‘Transdermal iontophoresis’, Expert Opin Drug Deliv, 3(1), pp. 127-38.
Kim, D. H., Kim, T. H., Lee, S. H. and Lee, A. Y. (2017) ‘Treatment of Palmar Hyperhidrosis with Tap Water Iontophoresis: A Randomized, Sham-Controlled, Single-Blind, and Parallel-Designed Clinical Trial’, Annals of dermatology, 29(6), pp. 728-734.
Kreyden, O. P. (2004) ‘Iontophoresis for palmoplantar hyperhidrosis’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(4), pp. 211-214.
Nagar, R. and Sengar, S. S. (2016) ‘A Simple User-made Iontophoresis Device for Palmoplantar Hyperhidrosis’, Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery, 9(1), pp. 32-33.
Rawat, S., Vengurlekar, S., Rakesh, B., Jain, S. and Srikarti, G. (2008) ‘Transdermal delivery by iontophoresis’, Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 70(1), pp. 5-10.
- 0.1 What is Iontophoresis?
- 0.2 History of Iontophoresis
- 0.3 Mechanism of Action
- 0.4 Procedure for Iontophoresis
- 0.5 Effectiveness of Iontophoresis
- 0.6 Safety & Limitations of Iontophoresis
- 0.7 Buying an Iontophoresis Machine
- 1 Best Iontophoresis Machine Comparison 🏅
- 2 Iontophoresis FAQ
- 2.1 Who invented Iontophoresis?
- 2.2 How does the Iontophoresis machine work?
- 2.3 Does Iontophoresis work in all the cases?
- 2.4 What is an Iontophoresis patch?
- 2.5 Can iontophoresis machines be used by everyone affected by hyperhidrosis?
- 2.6 Can iontophoresis machines be used for any body part?
- 2.7 How quickly can I expect to see results?
- 2.8 Can this device be dangerous, after all, Iontophoresis works by electric current?
- 2.9 Does Iontophoresis cause pain or hurt?
- 2.10 What are the contradictions for Iontophoresis?
- 2.11 What are the side effects of Iontophoresis?
- 2.12 Can Iontophoresis cause an electric shock?
- 2.13 Can Iontophoresis provide a permanent cure for excessive sweating?
- 2.14 Who performs Iontophoresis treatment?
- 2.15 Will insurance companies pay for Iontophoresis?
- 2.16 How much does the Iontophoresis treatment cost?
- 2.17 How much would an Iontophoresis machine cost?
- 2.18 What features should I look for in Iontophoresis machine?
- 2.19 Does it take a lot to succeed with Iontophoresis therapy?
- 2.20 Conclusion