Iontophoresis can be an effective treatment for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating of the palms and feet, when other methods have not provided sufficient relief. The procedure involves using a specialized machine that delivers a mild electrical current through water to your skin. This process is thought to help reduce sweating by blocking the sweat glands temporarilly. When considering this treatment, first ensure you have confirmed diagnosis of hyperhidrosis, ideally working with a dermatologist or a specialist who has experience in managing this condition. The most common recommendation is to start with several sessions per week, often daily or every other day, gradually decreasing frequency as you notice reduction in sweating. A single session usually lasts around 20 to 40 minutes. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions provided with the machine you chose to use, especially when setting the level of electrical current. If you purchase a home device, ensure it’s approved and deemed safe for personal use. While many patients report significant relief, results can vary, and there’s no guarantee it will fully stop sweating for everyone. Some might experience only a reduction in symptoms. Side effects can include skin irritation, discomfort or dryness but these can often be managed by adjusting the procedure or using protective creams. If you experience significant irritation, or other concerns, consult a healthcare provider. As with any medical treatment, discuss with your doctor if iontophoresis is the suitable option for you, considering any other conditions you may have or medications you’re taking.
Here are some iontophoresis machines people use to manage excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) of palms and feet — this treatment uses a mild electrical current through water to reduce sweat gland activity and has been shown to help many patients, though results can vary and regular maintenance is usually needed for lasting benefit.
Hello dear Yes you are right Iontophoresis is a good option for excess sweating from hands and feet It uses minor electric current with tap water producing minor impact I suggest you to please get it done as it a better preventive measures as compared to medication Regards
Hello,
Iontophoresis can help reduce excessive sweating of the palms and feet for many people, but it doesn’t work for sure in every case.
It often reduces sweating, and some see significant improvement.
You typically use a home iontophoresis machine several times a week, placing your hands/feet in water with a mild electrical current.
Results usually take a few weeks and need ongoing maintenance treatments.
It’s generally safe when used as directed, but talk to your dermatologist before starting.
I trust this helps Thank you
Hello Lohith I understand you’re looking for information on iontophoresis for excessive sweating in your palms and feet. Iontophoresis is a treatment that uses a device to pass a mild electrical current through water and into the skin’s surface, which can help reduce sweating.
How it works: - The electrical current temporarily blocks the sweat glands, reducing sweat production. - It’s often used for localized sweating, like in palms and feet.
Using an iontophoresis machine: 1. Setup: Fill the device’s trays with water (some machines may require a specific solution). 2. Electrodes: Place your hands or feet in the trays, ensuring they are fully submerged. 3. Settings: Turn on the machine and adjust the settings according to the instructions. Start with a lower intensity and gradually increase it as tolerated. 4. Duration: Sessions typically last 20-40 minutes, and you may need to do this several times a week initially. 5. Maintenance: Once you see improvement, you can reduce the frequency of sessions.
Effectiveness: - Many users report significant reduction in sweating, but results can vary. Some may experience complete relief, while others may see only partial improvement. - It may take several sessions to notice a difference, and ongoing maintenance treatments may be necessary.
Considerations: - It’s generally safe, but consult your doctor before starting, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns. - Some people may experience mild skin irritation or discomfort during treatment.
While iontophoresis has good reviews, it may not work for everyone. It’s best to manage expectations and discuss this option with your healthcare provider to see if it’s suitable for you.
Thank you
Hello Lohith, thank you for sharing your concern. Here is my advise -
1. About Iontophoresis: It works in most patients. It may not cure permanently, but it might significantly reduce sweating. Effects last days to weeks, so maintenance is needed. It is especially effective for: Palms & Soles. Less effective for underarms.
2.How to use it: Initially 3–4 sessions per week. Each session 15–20 minutes. Improvement usually seen in 2–3 weeks. Maintenance phase: Once improvement occurs- 1 session every 1–2 weeks. -Method: Place hands/feet in water trays. Start with low current, gradually increase to tolerable level. Mild tingling is normal. No pain or burning should occur.
3. Important precautions: Do NOT use if you have: Pacemaker, Metal implants in arms/legs, Epilepsy, Open cuts or wounds (cover small cracks with petroleum jelly). Apply moisturizer after sessions to avoid dryness.
4. Will it work “for sure”? - No treatment works 100% for everyone, but: Iontophoresis is one of the most reliable non-surgical treatments. Even if it doesn’t stop sweating completely, it almost always reduces it significantly.
5. Still, consider discussing it with your treating doctor before starting.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Medicine.
