Iontophoresis at home: indications and application

Exposure to electricity provokes the production and movement of ions. Direct current is like gusts of wind blowing in the same directions and spreading small particles. Galvanic current has a permanent effect, constant current pulses have a “running” effect. Charged particles are repelled from the electrode, moving into the deeper layers of the skin. In other words, the same ions appear from an electrode with a minus charge. The same principle applies to positive charges.

Iontophoresis in cosmetology

During this event, they usually use various cosmetic or medicinal products, thanks to which they can actually achieve different effects. It all depends on the purpose of the event.

During the event, various means are used to influence the skin.

How did iontophoresis come about?

The usefulness of the effect was first noticed in the 18th century, but it began to be used in medical practice at the beginning of the 20th century, when scientist Stéphane Leduc from France presented his works to the public.

This effect began to be actively used at the beginning of the 20th century.

Scientists of that time called the procedure very promising in terms of delivering drugs into the human body through the skin. Unfortunately, iontophoresis could not be used in medicine for quite a long time, because the skin is an excellent barrier to the penetration of various substances. Some other factors also interfered. And in our time, doctors do not use iontophoresis too often (it is used, for example, to correct excessive sweating), but this method has found its application in cosmetology. The procedure was first used in beauty salons in 1935.

Interesting ! There is a certain probability that iontophoresis was widespread in France in the last century, but it was not possible to find out exactly what medications doctors used then.

Many things prevented the use of iontophoresis

Now the demand for the procedure has decreased, as cosmetology is developing, and specialists have developed many more convenient methods for administering the necessary drugs. It is not always necessary to use complex equipment, and in some cases even the intervention of a cosmetologist is not required (transdermal system). However, hardware cosmetology still lives and is used in many beauty centers.

Iontophoresis was previously very popular

How are drugs delivered?

During iontophoresis, medicine can be delivered to a specific area of ​​the body. Usually, substances are delivered to the right place through the excretory ducts of the sebaceous and sweat glands. Less commonly, through the distance between cells and the cells themselves.

The injected agents enter the epidermal layer and accumulate in the superficial layers of the dermis. The injected medication penetrates the skin by one and a half centimeters. After manipulation, a special “depot” appears that slowly supplies the drug to the cells.

Important ! This process lasts from three hours to twenty days.

The active substances of the injected products enter the skin layers

By applying direct current to the skin, it is possible to introduce both small medicinal particles and larger ones carrying a charge of electricity through the skin and mucous membranes.

Disincrustation

This word refers to one of the types of iontophoresis, in which an alkaline solution is introduced using a negatively charged electrode. The procedure is carried out with the aim of deep cleansing the skin of the face, the area of ​​​​action is mainly the T-zone, since through it it is possible to influence comedones and remove secretions from the sebaceous glands. In addition, deep penetration of the necessary active substances can be achieved.

Important ! Skin cells are provided with moisture, and blood vessels become more permeable.

Disincrustation is one of the types of iontophoresis

Types of devices for independent use

Device for iontophoresis at home Gezaton Beauty Iris

To carry out the procedure at home, you need to purchase a special device. The most popular devices are considered to be products from the Gezaton company; the following models produced under this brand are in demand:

• Beauty Iris. The device operates in three modes (galvanic current, classic and Lotti microcurrent). When used in combination, the attachments provide hydration and saturation of the skin, optimization of local blood circulation and lymph flow.
• Galvanic Beauty SPA. The device has three modes of exposure (galvanic current, vibration, infrared radiation). When used in combination, the device leads to deep cleansing of the skin, removal of toxins, increased elasticity and reduction of wrinkles.
• M 910. A simple and affordable model for beginners, ideal for first experience and use at home. It produces only galvanic current, ensures deep cleaning and delivery of beneficial substances deep into the dermis.

Attachments for the Gezaton Beauty Iris device

Drugs used

Iontophoresis does not allow the introduction of any substance. Electrolytes are usually used - these are substances that dissociate into ions in water. The solvent component is distilled water. Some proteins and amino acids cannot be broken down into their simplest elements in an aquatic environment.

Important ! This problem can be solved by introducing special solutions, but this does not apply to all substances.

A variety of drugs are used during the procedure

Volume of substances administered

The volumes of injected ions are related to:

• current strength;
• duration of action;
• concentration of the active substance;
• skin health.

The volume of substances administered depends on many factors.

Non-woven masks with cosmetic products

Typically, “DIZAO”, “VOV” or “Beauty Style” masks are used, containing hyaluronate or collagen. An excellent alternative is placental or placental-collagen masks.

Important ! The main thing is that these masks are based on water, and they must also conduct electricity well.

The price is low - around seventy rubles apiece.

Masks containing hyaluronate and collagen are quite popular today.

Drugs

Vitamin C in ampoules

This vitamin copes well with photoaging and excessive pigmentation of the skin. The skin rejuvenates, acquires a healthy color, and collagen production begins in the body. To carry out iontophoresis, you need to dilute the product with water in a one to one ratio. The product is administered using an electrode that has a “minus” charge.

Important ! It is advisable to use ascorbic acid for this procedure in any month of the year.

The price of ten ampoules starts at thirty rubles.

Vitamin C in ampoules

A nicotinic acid

This substance takes part in oxidative processes in the body. For the iontophoresis procedure, it is necessary to dilute this acid with water in a one to one ratio. Blood circulation improves and blood vessels dilate.

Important ! A negatively charged electrode is used to administer nicotinic acid.

The price of ten ampoules is from sixty rubles.

A nicotinic acid

Hyaluronate

Hyaluronate has a positive effect on the regenerative abilities of the skin, as a result of which small scars or scars are “erased.” A single injection is enough for visible results: wrinkles are eliminated, the skin is rejuvenated, and appearance improves. The price of a serum with this substance is around two thousand rubles.

Hyaluronate

Hardware

Electrodes for the procedure can be different - there are balls, rollers, disks, masks for the entire area of ​​the face. One electrode is enriched with direct current, and the second completes the electrical circuit. It is the second one that interacts with the human body. Now the equipment is so developed that a specialist can easily change the polarity, although many scientists call such actions questionable. Such conclusions are associated with the possible risk of losing any iontophoretic results, since a sudden change in polarity neutralizes the effect of electrodes with the opposite charge.

Important ! If previously there was a “pushing” of the necessary substances, then the opposite ions will “pull them out”.

There are a variety of iontophoresis devices.

Frequently used devices.

1. Gezatone I-8003 Harvester with Michelle ultrasonic module is supplied complete with a roller electrode, a ball, and a cylinder. It is possible to change the polarity during the procedure.
2. Gezatone M-3392 “4 in 1” combine. The device is small in size and is sold complete with a cylinder electrode, a roller and a ball.
3. Gezatone I-9006 has ten functions, which include iontophoresis and disincrustation. There are three metal electrodes. An excellent option for a cosmetology clinic of any level.

   
   Gezatone devices are extremely popular today

4. Decomedical DEC Galvanic device allows performing iontophoresis, electrophoresis, disincrustation and galvanic stimulation. There is a cylinder electrode, a dome electrode, a sharp electrode, and a roller electrode.
5. Decomedical JML04. Involves iontophoresis, galvanic therapy, disincrustation and electrophoresis. There is a handpiece, several types of electrodes, and the polarity can be changed during the procedure.

Devices from Decomedical are considered no less popular.

Advantages of this impact

The procedure we are considering allows us to ensure the introduction of the required concentration of the drug directly into the problem area, preventing it from penetrating other parts of the body.

Important ! With the help of iontophoresis, it is possible to administer medicine to the area where painful changes have already occurred: problems with blood supply, capillary stasis, inflammatory processes of various natures.

When a drug is introduced into the body using electricity, the risk of suffering from side effects is extremely low. This is due to the fact that they enter the body in their purest form and do not affect the digestive system. Also, the concentration of the drug in the blood is not too high, the current reduces sensitivity and at the same time has a positive effect on the immune system.

Administering medication using electric current does not have negative consequences

Thanks to this procedure, it is possible to ensure a long-term effect of the drug, since a special “storage” is created in the skin.

Important ! The procedure does not cause pain or injury to the skin, and clients do not complain of discomfort.

The therapeutic effect of injected drugs can be enhanced, since they enter the body in an ionized state, and the effect occurs against the background of galvanization.

The effectiveness of the drug is enhanced by exposure to current

What cosmetic products are used?

Any beauty cocktail will not be suitable for the procedure.
In iontophoresis, special polarized preparations are used, and they are intended only for one of the electrodes. The packaging usually indicates the corresponding marking - “-” or “+”. The composition of the products depends on the purpose:

• moisturizers include hyaluronic acid;
• anti-aging contain ascorbic, nicotinic acids, aloe extract, vitamin B12;
• nutritious foods are prepared on the basis of vitamin E and plant extracts;
• For problem skin, products with salicylic acid, zinc, and sulfur are suitable;
• Caffeine and purine get rid of a double chin.

For a comprehensive solution to problems, the compounds are mixed. It is more convenient to choose water-based products for this - they combine more easily and penetrate the skin better.

You only need to remember one thing: the ions in the ingredients must be unipolar.

The variety of products does not mean that if you try to repeat the manipulation at home, you will have to purchase the entire arsenal of a cosmetology salon. You can also use ordinary ingredients, the main thing is to understand their properties. So, a 1-3% soda solution is suitable for cleansing the skin. It dissolves sebum well and gets rid of blackheads.

Technical terminology

Plus and minus

Iontophoresis is always carried out under the influence of positively and negatively charged electrodes.

The negative charge is the cathode. It is usually marked in black.

The positive charge is the anode. It is indicated by red shades.

Cathode and anode - the basis of iontophoresis

Passive and active electrodes

The small electrode has high current density, bright impact. It is called active, it can be single or bifurcated, affecting the affected surfaces of the skin.

Accordingly, a large area electrode is called passive. It is given to the patient's hand or placed somewhere on the body. It is quite advisable to use it for medicinal purposes. They also resort to the method of bipolar iontophoresis - the negative electrode ensures the absorption of negatively charged ions, the positive electrode - positively charged ions.

Use active and passive electrodes

Polarity

When talking about polarity, experts mean the charge of active particles of a substance. Ionic particles are able to reach deep tissue structures. Ions with a minus charge can be introduced using the same electrode.

Some specialists at cosmetology centers are trying to select special “charged” preparations. This approach is not entirely correct, since the products are not “charged” with ions; they can disintegrate into them due to the action of electricity. Therefore, the list of suitable components is not very long. Such substances are drugs used in iontophoresis or microcurrent therapy.

Important ! Some manufacturers write on the product packaging which pole should be used.

The doctor must understand what “polarity” is

If you need to enrich tissues with drugs, it is unacceptable to change the charge of the active electrode during manipulation.

In the case where different polarities are often used, the effect of the procedure will be distorted, since the ions will not be able to properly “treat” the problem area.

Incorrect polarity impairs the effect of iontophoresis

Types of electrodes

The main types of electrodes for iontophoresis:

• labile;
• stationary;
• electrodes for galvanic baths.

There are different electrodes, and each of them is suitable for specific purposes.

Important ! Labile electrodes are used for sliding effects. The electrodes are made of metal and have different shapes, which are selected based on the goals being pursued.

A cone-shaped electrode is used in combination with a gel or aqueous solution. If you use it on dry skin, without additional products, the skin will not be able to pass the medicine sufficiently, and discomfort will also occur.

Cone electrodes must be used together with gels

Stationary electrodes are special plates that transmit electricity. They need to be attached to the skin. They can be made of metal, rubber, graphite.

Place them on the skin for a period of time from ten minutes to half an hour. So the specialist must place a cloth or paper up to a centimeter thick under the electrode. The lining is moistened with either plain water or saline solution. The drug is also used for iontophoresis. The substrate is used to improve the passage of current, as well as to prevent irritation of the skin (they can be provoked by the electrode). After each procedure, the used material is washed or disinfected, although it is best to use disposable wipes.

It is necessary to use pads for better current flow

The electrodes used in galvanic baths are graphite plates. They are placed in a bowl of water.

Important ! Water or another solution used acts as an electrode; accordingly, the agents needed for administration are absorbed from the liquid.

Carrying out the procedure at home

It’s easier and cheaper to conduct sessions at home, but you should take your actions seriously.

Do not ignore contraindications and follow each of the 6 steps.

1. Remove all jewelry containing metal from your head. These can be precious things and jewelry. Be sure to remove hairpins, bobby pins, and elastic bands with metal elements from your hair.
2. Cleanse your skin. First, remove your makeup and wash your face with your usual product, then disinfect the treatment area. Regular chlorhexidine or alcohol-containing solutions are suitable for this.
3. If present, apply a product that increases current permeability. Such products add looseness to the epidermis. Cell membranes become more receptive and the applied serum penetrates better.
4. Take a piece of gauze. Fold several times and soak in soda solution. Apply a compress to your face. Give a 20-minute massage with an electrode with a negative charge, and then spend 2 minutes on a positive one. This will help further cleanse the skin of deep impurities.
5. Remove the compress and repeat the steps with gauze, moistening it in the active cocktail. For initial treatment, choose the electrode that matches the polarity of the solution. During the massage, hold the second one in your other hand through the protective pad.
6. Remove the compress. Wipe your skin with a moisturizing toner. Disinfect the electrodes.

Start with 5 minutes spent on active processing and monitor your condition. If there are discomfort and pain, refuse the artisanal procedure and trust a professional.

Selecting a device

The choice of devices for iontophoresis is extensive, but there should not be any particular difficulties in finding the right one.
If you are not ready to spend hours comparing parameters, when buying a device for home use, it makes sense to pay attention only to the clear controls and small size. SWI-STO II (III), Nevoton AK201 and several Gezatone models meet the requirements:

• M910 with basic functions;
• M775 with a bonus in the form of exposure to infrared rays - great for those with dry and aging skin;
• M708 with attachments for specific areas.

If you understand a little about the operating principles of the devices, look at the power, performance and shape of the electrodes.

Small ones – cone-shaped or oval – are comfortable for the face. Before purchasing, it is also useful to check quality certificates and study reviews of the seller on the Internet.

Still, you have to work with your face, and few people probably want to harm themselves in addition to their existing shortcomings.

The strength of the current used in iontophoresis

Galvanization and iontophoresis must be carefully “measured” in terms of the strength of the electric current and the duration of the procedure.

The strength of the current is selected based on the client’s sensations, so that the effect is felt strongly enough, but at the same time does not provoke pain or severe discomfort.

The doctor must individually select the current strength for the patient

Before starting manipulations, it is necessary to set the range of the current produced. It is permissible to use 0-5 mA on the face, 0-50 mA on the body. The skin in different areas changes its susceptibility to current. For example, more sensitive areas are on the neck or eyelids, less on the cheeks and forehead. It is worth noting that this parameter is purely individual and may vary depending on the time of day.

Important ! If you feel pain, tell the specialist and he will reduce the current.

Depending on where the work will be done, you need to set a certain current range

The duration of exposure is 5-25 minutes, which is related to the area of ​​exposure and the goals being pursued.

Typically, ten to twenty repetitions of iontophoresis are required, which are done daily or every couple of days.

Several iontophoresis procedures are needed for initial changes

Carrying out the procedure in the salon

Before the manipulation, the specialist conducts a survey and examination.
At this stage, you need to honestly talk about the existing contraindications, so as not to further harm the body. If the doctor gives the go-ahead, the patient is placed on a couch or offered to sit in a chair. The skin is thoroughly cleaned and, if necessary, lubricated with conductive gel. The entire face or just the treated area is covered with a fabric compress soaked in a beauty cocktail. Afterwards, the area is exposed to an active electrode for 5-15 minutes - simply moved over the surface. No pain should be expected; to the patient, the manipulation seems like a light massage.

After the compress is removed, the remaining gel is removed. To consolidate the result, the procedure is usually completed with a mask according to indications, and then sent home. The person does not require any recovery.

What is skin conductivity related to?

Different tissues of our body respond to electric shock to varying degrees. This property is associated with the concentration of ions and the intensity of the fluid exchange process. The stratum corneum of the skin is the main difficulty. Of course, resistance cannot be compared with electrical insulation, but it is still noticeable. Thus, the ability of the skin to respond to applied effects is associated with the stratum corneum.

Skin can make it difficult for current to pass through

Current conductivity.

Factors affecting current conductivity.

Important ! Before the iontophoresis procedure, you need to additionally degrease the skin.

Damaged parts of the skin perceive electric current more strongly.

When hairs get under the electrode or areas where nerves exit are touched, discomfort is possible.

Each part of the human body is characterized by its susceptibility to current.

There are many factors that influence current conductivity

When the procedure begins, electricity meets the resistance of the stratum corneum of the skin. The main part of the current energy is spent precisely on overcoming this section, which is why reactions that are significant for galvanization occur here.

From the above, we can conclude that the effect of electric current will be less as the depth of the tissue increases.

Contraindications

Iontophoresis has its certain limitations. Thus, manipulation cannot be carried out in case of intolerance to current, in the presence of a pacemaker and metal implants, in case of cancer, chronic dermatological diseases, diseases of the endocrine system, nervous disorders and epileptic seizures.

In addition, contraindications include hypertension, pathologies of an infectious nature, heart and vascular disease at the acute stage, and damage to internal organs. The period of childbearing or breastfeeding is also prohibited.

How to prepare for manipulation?

Before starting iontophoresis, you must carefully remove dirt, grease and cosmetics from the skin using special products. It is highly not recommended to do a cosmetic massage using fat-containing preparations or use fatty masks before the event. It is more advisable to carry out such procedures some time after the procedure.

It is necessary to carry out preparatory measures before the procedure

If the treated area is covered with hair, it must be removed (for example, if the thighs will be treated). A couple of days after hair removal, iontophoresis can be done. This is explained by the poor conductivity of current by the hair; moreover, because of it, a person may feel discomfort during manipulation.

Important ! If necessary, the hair on the treated area is removed. It is better if a cosmetologist does this.

If you have very dry skin that is prone to flaking, it is recommended to use a scrub to remove the stratum corneum.

What factors can provoke discomfort?

1. Very strong current.
2. Disturbances in the interactions between the electrode and the skin: it is poorly pressed to the skin, the special gel or solution is dry, the lining is poorly moistened, the electric current touches the hairs on the skin.

   
   Discomfort may occur due to improper preparation for the procedure.

3. Problems with the integrity of the skin barrier: minor damage to the skin after various cosmetic procedures or due to excessive dryness of the skin, inflammatory areas - pimples, sunburns, allergies, various skin diseases; thin stratum corneum due to peelings, masks and other factors.
4. Accumulation of electrolysis products: too thin or insufficiently processed lining, prolonged exposure to the same area (redness of the skin is a characteristic sign).

Do not act on one area of ​​skin for a long time

Effect

Iontophoresis is a universal procedure with a high impact. Results are visible after 1 procedure. According to reviews, it helps fight pigmentation and even out skin tone. After iontophoresis, a significant reduction in pimples, acne and blackheads is noticeable.

The procedure eliminates fine expression and age wrinkles. Sessions are often performed for flaking skin. If the patient has very oily skin, this will normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Iontophoresis is also used to eliminate bags under the eyes.

Photos before and after

Photos before and after the course of iontophoresis procedures No. 1

Photos before and after the course of iontophoresis procedures No. 2

Photos before and after the course of iontophoresis procedures No. 3

Price

We will indicate the average cost for one procedure in different cities of Russia.