Blog image - Why Previous Attempts at Iontophoresis May Not Have Worked

Why Previous Attempts at Iontophoresis May Not Have Worked

Struggling with iontophoresis results? Find out why your previous attempts may have failed and how The Fischer Iontophoresis Device offers effective, lasting relief.
Iontophoresis is a proven treatment for hyperhidrosis, using mild electrical currents to deliver minerals from tap water into sweat glands, creating a natural barrier to reduce perspiration. However, not all patients experience success on their first try.

If you’ve found previous iontophoresis attempts ineffective, it may be due to factors like soft water, using the wrong current type, or not following the correct treatment schedule. Let’s explore these common issues and how you can overcome them.
Why Iontophoresis May Not Have Worked

1. Soft Water: The Missing Minerals

Why It Matters

Iontophoresis relies on the natural minerals in tap water—such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium—to "plug" sweat glands and create dryness. However, if your home uses a water-softening system or your area has naturally soft well water, these essential minerals may be filtered out.

How to Fix It

If soft water was the issue, try one of these solutions:
  • Add baking soda: A small amount of baking soda can restore the water’s conductivity.
  • Use an external water source: Tap into an outdoor faucet or hose for untreated water.
  • Buy mineral water: Store-bought mineral water ensures proper ion delivery.
A man pouring tap water into the Fischer iontophoresis device's water bath trays
Why Iontophoresis May Not Have Worked

2. Using the Wrong Current Type

Understanding Direct and Pulsed Current

Iontophoresis devices use either Direct Current (DC) or Pulsed Current (PC). Direct Current provides consistent ion delivery and faster results, making it the top choice for most patients. Pulsed Current, on the other hand, is gentler but less effective because it delivers ions intermittently.

Why It Matters

A device like The Fischer offers both Direct and Pulsed Current settings, allowing you to:
  • Use Direct Current for faster, more effective treatments.
  • Switch to Pulsed Current for increased comfort if sensitivity is an issue.
Why Iontophoresis May Not Have Worked

3. Not Treating Long Enough

Why Treatment Duration Matters

Iontophoresis requires consistency and a structured schedule to achieve results. Initially, you may need 20-minute sessions every other day for two weeks. Gradually, as sweating decreases, you can reduce treatments to 1–2 times per week.

Patients who stop too soon or skip sessions risk seeing little to no improvement.

How to Fix It

Follow a structured plan:
  • Start with 20-minute sessions per area every other day for two weeks.
  • Transition to maintenance mode as sweating decreases, treating less frequently.
  • Consult a specialist: An RA Fischer Treatment Specialist can guide you through adjustments based on your symptoms.
"Talk to our Treatment Specialists today to see why the Fischer iontophoresis device is the best treatment available for hyperhidrosis and to check insurance benefits."
Jennifer Jacobellis - CEO

Why Choose The Fischer Iontophoresis Device?

The Fischer device addresses the common issues that may have hindered your previous treatments.

Don’t let past challenges keep you from dryness. Explore The Fischer today and take control of your hyperhidrosis journey!
An overhead photograph of only the arms and hands of a person facing forward treating their palmar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the hands) using RA Fischer Co.'s The Fischer iontophoresis device on a white table. White water bath trays and black, metal-free silicone electrodes with ph-balancing foam inside the tray on a plain white background. The Fischer iontophoresis device is white and rectangular with a blue and grey screen. Buttons read "SET" and arrows. Logo of the Fischer device bottom right corner

Leave a Reply