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What should you know about galvanic iontophoresis?

Equipment and setting used in Iontophoresis
Illustration: Equipment and setting used in 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.

City

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.

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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.