What should you know about galvanic iontophoresis?

Short answer
Galvanic iontophoresis passes a low electrical current through water to temporarily reduce sweating in a selected treatment area.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Current
- Steady direct electrical current
- Medium
- Usually water contacting the skin
- Expected effect
- A temporary decrease in treated-area sweating
How the galvanic method works
The term galvanic refers to the steady direct current supplied by the device. During a session, the skin contacts water and the current travels across the treatment area. The exact biological effect is not fully predictable for every person, but sweat production may lessen for a time. The approach is most commonly discussed for excessive sweating of the hands or feet; treatment of the face or other sensitive sites needs extra caution.
Using it thoughtfully
Read the device directions before connecting the electrodes, remove jewellery, and cover small cuts only as the instructions allow. Never improvise electrode placement or increase the current to speed results. Keep the session within the recommended time and stop for sharp pain, burning, blistering, or persistent irritation. A clinician can review medicines, implanted electrical devices, pregnancy, skin conditions, and the reason for sweating before you begin. More background is available under [Iontophoresis](/treatments/laser-and-energy/iontophoresis/).
When to seek care
Get medical advice if sweating starts suddenly, affects the whole body, occurs with fever or weight change, or follows a new medicine. Seek urgent help for fainting, chest discomfort, breathing trouble, a significant burn, or a severe allergic reaction. Stop treatment and arrange review if the skin remains painful or damaged.
Questions for your doctor
Ask which body areas are suitable, what current and session plan match your device, how to protect sensitive skin, and what improvement would count as meaningful. Discuss the [Iontophoresis Device](/technology/iontophoresis-device/) and alternatives, including [Botox For Sweating](/treatments/injectables/botulinum-toxin-for-hyperhidrosis/).
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Is galvanic iontophoresis the same as iontophoresis?
Galvanic iontophoresis is a form of iontophoresis that uses a steady direct current.
Can it treat unexplained sweating?
It may address sweating in a treated area, but unexplained or widespread sweating should be medically assessed first.
Related
Related reading
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.