Iontophoresis: a treatment for hyperhidrosis without negative long-term effects

Iontophoresis: tap water and mild electricity to prevent sweating

Iontophoresis, or more precisely tap water iontophoresis (TWI), has become a common medical therapy for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). In TWI, the areas of the body affected by heavy sweating are treated with DC or pulse electrical current. In contrast to classical iontophoresis, no drugs are used in tap water iontophoresis.

98% success rate against sweating. No negative long-term effects. Simply safe and inexpensive.

Using iontophoresis to combat hyperhidrosis:

Iontophoresis is mainly used for sweaty feet, sweaty palms, heavy sweating of the armpits, and excessive sweating in the face. These are the areas most commonly affected by hyperhidrosis and they all feature a high density of sweat glands.
In case of excessive sweating of the hands (hyperhidrosis palmaris) or the feet (hyperhidrosis plantaris), the affected body parts are immersed for about 15 minutes in two basins filled with tap water into which electrodes send a weak electrical current. Direct contact between the skin and electrodes is prevented by treatment towels. In cases of hyperhidrosis of the armpits (hyperhidrosis axillaris) or of the face (hyperhidrosis facialis), the treatment may be carried out using axillary sponge pads soaked in tap water or a special face mask.

Is iontophoresis the best remedy for excessive sweating?

The amazing success of tap water iontophoresis is undisputed (98% success!) and has been proven in numerous studies. However, the exact mechanism of action has not yet been completely understood. According to recent findings, the electrical current somehow affects the nerves leading to the sweat glands. The treatment inhibits the sweat glands and allows them to “ignore” the (excessive) nervous signals from the brain which cause excessive sweating.

Iontophoresis as an affordable long-term treatment for sweaty feet, etc.

In comparison to many other therapeutic methods, iontophoresis has no negative long-term effects. During therapy, it may only lead to slight discomfort (tingling or burning) and to short-term skin irritation (redness) after treatment.

The procedure is easy to perform, safe, inexpensive, and can be used even on children.

It is a long-term therapy that must be repeated at short intervals during the initial phase, although the intervals can be longer during the maintenance phase.

In addition, beyond the purchase of an iontophoresis device, there are no further follow-up costs, so that the treatment is very affordable over the longer term.

Does health insurance pay for iontophoresis?

After applying and your doctor certifies its medical necessity, most German insurance companies will pay for the cost of an iontophoresis treatment device. [Coverage in other countries may vary.] Your doctor can write a corresponding prescription. Another prerequisite for reimbursement is usually the proof that iontophoresis is a good match for the treatment of your hyperhidrosis. This is done by undergoing an initial round of treatments at home or at your doctor’s practice. To allow you to do this at home, we can offer you a loaner device.

Tap water iontophoresis is one of the safest treatments for hyperhidrosis, but…

there are also groups of people for whom this treatment is inappropriate, such as pregnant women or patients with pacemakers or other metal implants. You also need to remove all jewellery before starting the treatment. However, if no contraindications are present, there is nothing that will prevent a safe treatment.

A quick overview of the benefits of HIDREX iontophoresis treatment:

  • Applicable to all forms of primary (focal) hyperhidrosis
  • Proven success in scientific studies
  • Risk-free, safe treatment method
  • No negative long-term effects
  • Non-invasive, no medication required
  • Costs may be covered by health insurance

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