Galvanic facial cleansing - a painless method

• The essence of disincrustation
• Mechanism of action
• Indications
• Contraindications
• Efficiency
• Advantages
• Preparatory stage
• Disincrustation technique
• After the procedure
• How often?
• Possible complications
• Compatible with other procedures
• Is it possible to carry out the procedure at home?
• Price
• Reviews

Galvanic facial cleansing, or disincrustation, is one of the new services provided by beauty salons. During the procedure, deep cleansing of the skin occurs. To do this, a low-power electric current is used, under the influence of which the sebum and impurities accumulated in the pores dissolve and come out. On the surface of the skin, fats interact with a special solution previously applied to the face, turning into soap.

In terms of effectiveness, disincrustation is comparable to manual facial cleansing, but it has an important advantage: it is not accompanied by pain and discomfort, even with a fairly low threshold of pain sensitivity. The painlessness of the procedure is due to the insignificant strength of the electric current used.

Disincrustation uses galvanic current

The essence of disincrustation

During cleaning, the patient's face is treated with a device that produces a galvanic current, the strength of which is 0.6-1.5 mA. Facial treatment is performed with a negative electrode. This may be a roller with a sponge surface impregnated with an electrolyte solution. Other types of electrodes are pre-wrapped with a napkin soaked in disinfectant. Another option is to apply a cotton pad, gauze, or sponge containing a solution to the patient's skin. During the procedure, special attention is paid to problem areas, the T-zone. Finally, the polarity of the electrode is changed and short-term treatment is performed to restore the acid-base balance of the skin.

Main stages of the procedure

No specific preparation is required for galvanic facial cleansing. Throughout the procedure, the patient has a neutral electrode in his hand, which is necessary for the generation of galvanic current. The session is conducted as follows:

1. Preliminary stage. Before starting the procedure, you need to cleanse your face of decorative cosmetics;
2. Electrode preparation. It should be wrapped in a napkin soaked in disinfectant, or a soaked fabric mask can be placed on the patient’s face. The electrode can be made in the form of a roller with a sponge surface that absorbs an electrolyte solution;
3. Treatment with a negative electrode with an emphasis on the T-zone and problem areas (acne on the cheeks, facial wrinkles, nasolabial folds);
4. Changing the polarity of the electrode and short-term treatment to restore the acid-base balance;
5. Application of an intensive restorative agent.

In most cases, the procedure is completely painless, but sometimes it may be accompanied by a tingling and tingling sensation. The session lasts from 20 to 30 minutes depending on the condition of the skin. To consolidate the effect, it is recommended to conduct 4 sessions with a difference of 2-4 weeks. After the course, the condition will need to be maintained by repeated disincrustation once every 2-3 months.

Mechanism of action

During galvanic cleaning, or, as it is also called, galvanotherapy, devices are used that generate a direct current of special strength with low voltage. It is used in cosmetology for electrophoresis - an electrokinetic process, the essence of which is the movement of dispersed phase particles in a gaseous or liquid medium under the influence of an external electric current. This phenomenon was discovered by Moscow University professors P. Strakhov and F. Reis at the beginning of 1809. Electrophoresis is used in medicine and cosmetology to ensure deep penetration of small particles of a substance applied to the surface into the layers of the skin.

Approaching a negatively charged electrode to the skin is accompanied by the attraction of positive ions. Under the influence of current they turn into active atoms. The result of their activity is a decrease in pH and a change in the skin environment from acidic to alkaline.

Galvanization lowers pH and changes the skin environment

After these processes, the galvanophoresis solution begins to act. In many cases, 5% sodium chloride, 2% sodium salicylate, or 1% sodium bicarbonate are used as a disincrustant. Another option is to use a special solution provided with the device by the manufacturer. To achieve an additional therapeutic or cosmetic effect, it is sometimes enriched with magnesium, potassium ions and aloe vera extract in liquid form.

A change in the skin environment under the influence of alkali leads to saponification of triglycerides, which form the basis of sebum. They come to the surface and are then easily removed by hand. An additional effect is achieved under the influence of acidic electrolysis products. They weaken and gradually destroy the connections between the cells of the stratum corneum (keratocytes), due to which its re-epithelialization occurs.

In addition to the main effect, galvanic current provides micromassage of the face, stimulating metabolic processes in cells, activating local bleeding and lymphatic drainage.

What is galvanization?

Initially, galvanization was used as a method of physiotherapy. Later, experts noticed its positive effect on the skin of the face and suggested using the same devices to treat dermatological problems. This is how this technique came to cosmetology.

During the procedure, biologically active components penetrate the skin due to the assignment of an electrical charge to them. For this purpose, the action of direct current is used. Its power may vary depending on the condition of the body, the desired effect and existing problems.

Under the influence of current, not only substances enter the skin, but also stimulate their synthesis in the body itself. This releases endorphins, acetylcholine, heparin, histamine, prostaglandins and other active compounds. They act on skin vessels, expanding their lumen. Due to this, more blood flows to the tissues, which provides them with nutrition and accelerates gas exchange.

As a result of galvanization, the skin looks healthier and more rested. This is ensured by several effects:

• expansion of pores and removal of toxins and impurities from them;
• removal of dead cells of the upper layer of skin;
• local acceleration of blood circulation;
• reduction in the amount of sebum produced;
• getting rid of comedones by saponification;
• increase in skin turgor.

The action of the current is not accompanied by unpleasant sensations, unlike mechanical methods of cleaning pores. In this case, no injuries appear on the skin, which means the risk of infection tends to zero.

Since galvanization creates a depot of useful substances in the body, healing does not stop after disconnecting the device from the network.

The positive effect after the procedure continues to appear for several days.

Indications

According to experts, galvanic facial cleansing is especially effective for oily and problematic skin, when the use of lotions and washing gels is not enough to remove impurities. The procedure promotes intensive removal of dirt, sebum and deep cleansing of pores.

Indications for skin disincrustation are:

Disincrustation is carried out for skin imperfections

• comedones, acne;
• the appearance of the first age-related changes;
• early photoaging;
• melasma;
• seborrhea;
• formation of areas of pigmentation after inflammatory diseases.

Indications for use

There are a number of problems that cosmetologists recommend solving with this procedure. Among the main indications for the use of electric current are:

• deep contamination of the facial skin that conventional cleansers cannot cope with;
• acne and blocked hair follicles;
• Melasma is a disorder of facial skin pigmentation;
• the first signs of aging;
• seborrhea;
• sagging skin;
• swelling and bags under the eyes.

Facial skin pigmentation disorder (melasma)

Contraindications

The most serious contraindication is the presence of a pacemaker. In such cases, exposure to electric current can lead to unpredictable consequences.

The procedure is also not performed for the following diseases and conditions:

• dry and sensitive skin;
• the presence of abrasions and cuts on the skin at the sites where the electrode is applied;
• acute purulent inflammatory processes;
• dermatitis;
• herpes;
• eczema;
• molluscum contagiosum;
• vitiligo;
• rosacea;
• fever;
• bronchial asthma;
• blood clotting disorder;
• hypertension;
• heart failure;
• neurotic conditions;
• oncological diseases;
• epilepsy;
• individual sensitivity to electric current or components of electrolyte solution;
• pregnancy.

Galvanization is contraindicated for pregnant women

The undesirability of cleaning during pregnancy is associated with changes in hormonal levels and the possible negative impact of galvanic current on the development of the fetus. It is not recommended to perform the procedure during menstruation or the week before it.

Effect of current and types of galvanization

To understand how facial skin cleansing occurs, you need to understand how this procedure works. A low-power electric current, penetrating into the deepest layers of the dermis, activates cell regeneration processes.

Under the influence of galvanization, metabolism begins to improve, hormones are produced, and blood vessels dilate. The current also helps special solutions applied to the face before the procedure begin to penetrate the skin. All this has a positive effect on the condition of the dermis.

The galvanization procedure in modern cosmetology is presented in two options. The first of them is disincrustation. It is carried out if it is necessary to do deep cleansing of the facial skin. The procedure involves the use of galvanic current and a special alkaline solution. It is applied to the skin, and the supplied electricity helps it penetrate deep into the dermis and sebaceous glands. There the alkaline solution begins to turn into soap.

Effect of galvanic current on the skin

The combined action of the product and galvanic current helps remove all impurities from the pores, and also accelerates the rate of regeneration of the epidermis. Among the main indications for desincrustation are oily skin, enlarged pores, and rashes on the face. It is also worth noting that this method of cleaning is not suitable for girls and women with dry skin.

The second type of galvanization in cosmetology is iontophoresis. This procedure involves the use not of a simple solution, but of special medicinal products. They are applied to the face and become charged under the influence of galvanic current.

Thus, medicinal preparations penetrate into the deep layers of the dermis already changed, in the form of a special solution. Due to the fact that the drugs are affected by current, they are easily absorbed into the blood and acquire a special increased activity.

Iontophoresis for the face

Since the ionization method is also aimed at removing excess fluid and other metabolic products from the body, it is often used not only for the face. This type of galvanization can also be used to combat cellulite.

Expert opinion

Tatyana Somoilova

Cosmetology expert

To quickly achieve positive changes in facial skin, you need to undergo a course of several procedures. As a rule, they are held once every two weeks. To cleanse your face, 4-6 procedures are enough. To consolidate the result, galvanization is repeated a couple of months after the last session.

Efficiency

• The effect of galvanophoresis is primarily manifested in the deep cleansing of pores and the release of sebaceous plugs, due to which the skin begins to breathe and become saturated with oxygen. The result is an acceleration of metabolic processes and a general improvement in skin condition.
• Disincrustation helps get rid of acne, blackheads and pimples, improve complexion, and regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands.
• The procedure helps soften and moisturize the skin, relax tissues, and facilitate the removal of decay products.
• For aging skin, cleansing helps restore elasticity, increase skin tone, smooth out small wrinkles, and improve facial contours. This effect is achieved due to the ability of galvanic current to stimulate collagen production, improve skin structure and accelerate lymphatic drainage.
• Cleaning is a safe and effective way to speed up skin regeneration. It has been proven that after the procedure, epidermal cells acquire a denser structure, resulting in healthier skin.
• Galvanophoresis helps clear sinuses and reduces nasal congestion.

Advantages

The main advantages of the procedure:

Disincrustation cleanses the face for a long time

• Promotes thorough cleansing of the skin.
• It is completely painless and does not create discomfort.
• Does not require special skin preparation.
• If the recommendations are followed, it does not lead to undesirable consequences.
• An additional lifting effect is achieved.
• Affordable in terms of price.
• Combines perfectly with other cosmetic procedures.
• Galvanic facial cleansing can be done at home.

Disincrustation technique

Apparatus for disincrustation

1. The skin is cleansed using conventional products: gels, milk.
2. The entire face is covered with an even layer of a special alkaline composition and proceed directly to the procedure itself.
3. Check the device: current intensity regulator (it should be set to zero) and polarity. A negative charge is required for cleaning. Having configured the device, proceed to the procedure.
4. They turn on the galvanic current and begin to move the electrode along the chin. The patient is informed about the possibility of a feeling of warmth, slight tingling and a metallic taste in the mouth.
5. Gradually increase the intensity of the current, continuing to influence the chin area. If discomfort occurs, the current strength is slightly reduced.
6. They continue to treat the skin, moving along the massage lines. The T-zone is especially carefully treated: chin, upper lip, nasolabial folds. When cleaning the neck, it is necessary to avoid exposure to the thyroid gland area. Movements should be smooth.
7. After 10-15 minutes, soap forms on the face: it is easily washed off with plain water.
8. Change the polarity of the electrode to positive and re-treat the entire face, which allows you to restore the normal level of skin acidity. This is a very important point in the disincrustation process.
9. The intensity of the galvanic current is gradually reduced to zero.
10. Completely removes any remaining cleansing liquid from the face.
11. A restorative mask is applied.
12. After removing the mask, moisturizer is applied to the face.

The duration of the session depends on the condition of the skin, the presence of certain problems and on average is 20-30 minutes.

Preparations for electroplating in cosmetology

What products are used during the procedure depend on its type. Drugs for disincrustation and iontophoresis will be very different. For the first type of galvanization, special alkaline solutions are used. Usually the main agents are sodium carbonate or sodium chloride. Also, professional cosmetic preparations, in addition to the indicated compounds, may contain potassium or magnesium. These substances help enhance the effects of galvanic current.

For iontophoresis, completely different drugs are used. As a rule, a variety of vitamins, acids, plant extracts, and mesotherapy cocktails are used as therapeutic agents.

Mesotherapy cocktails

The specialist himself chooses this or that drug, guided by the condition of the patient’s skin, as well as what problem this or that drug should be aimed at solving. For example, gyluronic acid helps smooth out wrinkles, and salicylic acid fights inflammation and skin impurities.

After the procedure

• It is not recommended to use cosmetics within 12 hours after cleaning.
• For about 3 days, the facial skin remains highly sensitive. For this reason, it should be protected from ultraviolet rays, mechanical, chemical influences, do not use aggressive cleansers, and do not visit the beach, solarium, bathhouse, sauna, or swimming pool.
• To speed up skin restoration, it is recommended to regularly apply restorative masks based on cosmetic clay and other natural ingredients.
• A necessary condition for facial skin care after galvanic cleansing is the use of an intensely moisturizing cream.

Possible complications

Facial cleansing using galvanic current is rarely accompanied by undesirable effects, however, their occurrence is not excluded. If the rules of the procedure are violated, the device is configured incorrectly, or contraindications are ignored, the following complications sometimes occur:

• prolonged redness of the skin;
• swelling of facial tissues;
• increased dryness, peeling, itching;
• excess secretion of sebum (results from too frequent cleansing);
• retention of a metallic taste in the mouth;
• allergic reactions;
• dermatological diseases.

Chemical peeling during disincrustation is prohibited

The essence of the procedure for deep atraumatic facial cleansing

The name “atraumatic cleaning” speaks for itself. The purpose of this procedure is maximum delicacy, which in some cases is very important and necessary. For example, careful manipulation of skin tissue is mandatory for sensitive skin, rosacea, and pregnancy.

Deep atraumatic facial cleansing is performed using a complex of special cosmetic preparations that loosen the epidermis, exfoliate the stratum corneum, and then dissolve impurities, remove sebaceous deposits, and eliminate acne.

The main difference between atraumatic facial cleansing and other similar manipulations is the absence of mechanical impact on the skin. The procedure is performed without the use of tools and devices. Sometimes, with an atraumatic method, ultrasonic treatment is used, which does not injure tissue. Cosmetics do not have hard particles and practically do not contain aggressive elements.

Important! Speaking about deep atraumatic facial cleansing, one cannot fail to mention that this is a mild chemical peeling, which involves thorough preparation of the skin and comprehensive care after the manipulations are completed. During the procedure, the skin is not subject to negative influence.

Steaming the epidermis leads to the opening of pores and the penetration of active acid components into the deeper layers of the skin. As a result, intercellular connections are weakened, which promotes exfoliation (or exfoliation) of keratinized particles.

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At the same time, chemicals soften impurities and change the structure of sebum, thereby facilitating thorough cleansing of sebaceous ducts and the removal of superficial milia and comedones.

The procedure allows you to completely dissolve some of the dirt that clogs the pores.

• Acids stimulate cell proliferation in the basal layer of the epidermis, resulting in rejuvenation of the cellular composition of the skin.
• The synthesis of elastin and collagen fibers becomes more intense, resulting in increased skin elasticity and smooth out small wrinkles.
• The renewed cells have a high moisturizing factor, which allows you to maintain a normal level of skin tissue hydration.

The effect obtained as a result of these processes is renewed, young and moisturized skin.

Thanks to its delicate effects, atraumatic cleaning has no contraindications and is suitable for everyone. The technique is used as a basic or preparatory procedure before more aggressive manipulations.

This type of cleansing is most useful for those who:

• thin, sensitive skin;
• rosacea;
• predisposition to the formation of keloid scars;
• post-acne;
• comedones and stubborn acne.

For teenagers and pregnant women, it is enough to perform only atraumatic cleaning. There are no restrictions (by age, gender, season). Therefore, this delicate procedure can be considered universal.

Compatible with other procedures

To obtain better results and increase efficiency, galvanic cleansing is recommended to be combined with other facial skin care techniques.

• According to experts, it is optimal to combine disincrustation with manual cleaning, in which closed comedones are removed manually or using a special tool in the form of a spatula or spoon.
• A good result is also obtained when combined with vacuum cleaning, during which a device is used to draw out contaminants from the pores.
• Deep cleansing and accelerated skin regeneration are ensured by combining galvanic current cleaning with mechanical or laser peeling. During the latter, the laser beam automatically scans and polishes skin defects.
• The effect of electric current can also be combined with ultrasonic cleaning, the effect of which is to push contaminants out through ultrasound, which creates a special vibration in the cells.

Combining galvanophoresis with chemical peeling is strictly prohibited. Acids increase the load on the skin, resulting in an increased risk of injury and complications.

How is galvanic cleaning performed?

No special preparation is needed before cleaning. But you definitely need to consult a cosmetologist. He will examine the epidermis for damage and skin pathologies. It is also necessary to identify diseases for which the procedure is prohibited. To do this you need to visit a doctor.

Immediately before the session, the face is cleansed of makeup. It is advisable for women to come to the procedure without makeup. The presence of surface contaminants can reduce the effectiveness of the technique to a minimum and even cause the development of an inflammatory process if dirt penetrates into enlarged pores.

Then the cosmetologist prepares the electrode and adjusts the operation of the equipment. A special solution is applied to the skin, which conducts electricity and takes part in removing sebum. Next, turn on the current and begin the cleansing. It occurs with a negative charge.

After a few minutes, the charge is changed to positive and the epidermis is treated again. This is very important for normalizing the acidity of the skin. Gradually, the intensity of the electric current is reduced to zero.

At the end of the cleansing, remove the solution from the face and make a mask to restore tissue. After it, treat the skin with moisturizing cream. The session lasts approximately half an hour.

To carry out galvanization, it is not necessary to visit a beauty salon. The procedure can be carried out at home. To do this you will need to purchase a special device. At home, the session is performed almost the same way:

1. the skin is cleansed of cosmetics;
2. Soda solution is applied to the face. Instead, you can buy a gel designed specifically for this procedure;
3. a negative charge is turned on and the epidermis is processed along massage lines;
4. positive polarity is turned on and face processing is repeated;
5. the remaining liquid is washed off.

On the cosmetology market you can find a wide range of different devices for galvanic facial cleansing. They all have different characteristics, service life, and functionality. The Gezatone Beauty Lifting device model M910 is very popular.

This device is capable of influencing the skin with various galvanic currents. It works using water-based solutions. The device allows substances to actively penetrate deep into the dermis and draw out impurities. The equipment is also used for introducing rejuvenating or therapeutic agents into the skin.

Another popular device for galvanizing is the Nevoton AK-201. Designed for deep cleansing of different skin types: oily, dry, normal. The device is easy to use and helps dissolve dirt in the pores.

Galvanization is permitted with such cosmetic procedures for cleansing the skin as:

1. manual cleaning. It involves removing closed comedones by hand or using special tools;
2. vacuum cleaning. To carry it out, a device is used that sucks out dirt from the pores;
3. laser peeling. This procedure involves the elimination of epidermal defects under the influence of a laser beam;
4. ultrasonic facial cleansing. It involves pulling out impurities from the pores using ultrasound, which creates vibration in the tissues.

Attention! Galvanic cleaning cannot be performed together with chemical peeling. Otherwise, the likelihood of complications and damage to the dermis increases.

Is it possible to carry out the procedure at home?

To carry out the procedure yourself, you must have a special device, knowledge of the basic rules of cleaning, and the direction of massage lines.

You can carry out disincrustation yourself

In general, galvanic cleaning at home is almost no different from a salon procedure.

• The skin of the face is cleansed with milk or simply washed, then treated with tonic.
• Apply an alkaline solution to the face. You can use ordinary soda solution as a conductor. It is prepared at the rate of 2 teaspoons of soda per glass of water. Another option is to purchase a ready-made gel.
• Set the device to negative polarity mode.
• The entire face is treated, strictly following the direction of the massage lines.
• Switch the device to positive polarity and re-process the face.
• Remove the remaining solution.
• Apply a mask. At home, you can prepare a mask from clay, aloe juice and mineral water, which has restorative and antiseptic properties. It is kept for about 15-20 minutes, then washed off with warm water.
• Apply nourishing cream to the face.

The number of procedures is determined depending on the result obtained.

Carrying out the procedure at home

To rejuvenate and cleanse the dermis, it is not necessary to make an appointment with a cosmetologist. Electroplating can also be done at home. To do this, it is enough to purchase a special portable device and medicinal products for cleaning the skin.

Devices for the procedure

There are a number of proven devices for galvanizing, among which the following are especially popular:

• Gezatone Beauty Lifting m910 . The device allows you to carry out the procedure at home. It is possible to alternately use both positive and negative charges. Used to rejuvenate and heal the skin.
• Gezatone Galvanic Beauty SPA m777 . This device is also a massager that combines the function of galvanization and microcurrent therapy.
• Electroplating UMS-12 “Golden Spoon” . An excellent device for combating fine wrinkles, skin impurities, and age spots.

Preparations for the procedure

To carry out effective galvanization, it is not enough to purchase a portable device for supplying electric current. The second important component of the procedure are special medicinal products that are sold in pharmacies. As a rule, the packaging indicates what charge the product has. The following preparations are best suited for electroplating at home:

• Beauty Style Complex . These gels are based on spring water. The packaging of the drug includes five ampoules with various effects and compositions. Some of them are aimed at rejuvenation, others at combating dermal pollution, and others at hydration and nutrition.
• Teana ampoules . This is a special serum used for galvanization. It is used to eliminate wrinkles and give the skin a healthy appearance. One package of the drug includes ten ampoules with serums of various effects.
• If disincrustation is carried out, it is possible to use ordinary saline solution.

How to conduct

To do galvanization at home, you must follow the following sequence of actions:

• Before the procedure itself, you must first cleanse your facial skin.
• Apply a special preparation or alkaline solution to the dermis.
• The required charge is set on the device.
• Start moving the device over your face. Particular attention is paid to the chin, skin in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle, and forehead. It must be remembered that you need to move the device only along the massage lines.
• After the procedure is completed, the skin is lubricated with a tonic lotion, then a special soothing mask is applied.

Massage lines along which the device must be moved
Expert opinion

Tatyana Somoilova

Cosmetology expert

The time for galvanization directly depends on its type. If iontophoresis is performed, then effective facial cleansing will take from 15 minutes to half an hour. Disincrustation, on the contrary, takes very little time - 1-3 minutes.

Reviews

“With my oily skin, this cleanser was just perfect for me. I have never received such an effect from any cosmetic product. In just 3 procedures, the face was almost completely cleared of excess fat, the pores were completely invisible, and the unpleasant shine disappeared. The procedure takes only 20 minutes, and the effect is simply amazing. However, if you have dry skin, this method can only do harm.”

Natalya, 26 years old.

“I have combination skin with enlarged pores. The cosmetologist said that galvanic cleaning would be perfect for me. The procedure is very simple. Some kind of solvent is applied to the face, then a roller roller is passed over it. Under the influence of microcurrents, impurities are melted and saponified, at the same time the pores open, and everything unnecessary comes out. All that remains is to remove the dirt with a napkin. As a bonus, I was promised skin lifting, but it doesn’t seem to be hanging on me yet. This procedure is very good to do before mechanical cleaning. This is an excellent option for people with fragile blood vessels who are not suitable for more aggressive procedures. The effect lasts a little longer than a week."

Elena, 28 years old.

“I believe that for problem skin, such a procedure is simply necessary. My face, to put it mildly, was not in ideal condition: everything was covered with rashes and spots from acne. But what bothered me the most was acne. They appeared in groups of about 2 over the course of a week on the forehead, temples, and cheeks. The clinic said that the reason was male hormones. Several medications, gels and ointments were prescribed. I took the medicine for 3 months and the effect was good. But external remedies didn’t help at all. The doctor recommended disincrustation. Course – 10 sessions (1 per week). The point is that the nozzle of the device is dipped into the solution and moved over the face. The feeling is great, the result is satisfactory. After 2 months, the acne became significantly smaller, and post-acne also disappeared. In addition, the skin was toned and the complexion improved. For 10 procedures (including a mask) I paid 5,000 rubles. Normal price. Buying medicines was much more expensive.”

Inna, 30 years old.