Iontophoresis for excessive sweating

At a glance

How it works

How it works is not fully known. The current may block sweat ducts for a time. Results depend on the strength and length of each session.

Where iontophoresis fits

It is one of the best-studied non-drug treatments for hands and feet. It often comes before pills or Botox. Underarm treatment is possible, but pads are harder to place well.

Home devices

Dermadry, Hidrex USA, and RA Fischer all make home devices. They differ in power, comfort, body-area kits, warranty, parts, and price. Typical prices range from about $499 to $950. No device is best for everyone.

Treatment schedule

A common starting schedule is 20 to 30 minutes, three to five times a week. Once sweating improves, sessions may drop to once every one to three weeks. Sweating usually returns if maintenance stops.

Water and current type

Plain tap water is standard. Some clinics add glycopyrrolate to the water, but this needs medical guidance. A pulsed current may feel gentler than a steady current.

Safety considerations

Do not use it with a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device. Ask a clinician about use during pregnancy or over broken skin. Tingling, redness, and dry skin are common. Raise the current slowly and stay within the device instructions.

What to consider

• • Type: tap-water device with a small electrical current
• • Schedule: 3-5 times a week at first, then every 1-3 weeks
• • Cost: clinic fee per visit or about $499-$950 for a home device
• • Use: in a clinic or at home with the right device
• • Body area: best studied for hands and feet

Side effects and reasons this may not be safe for you

• • Mild tingling during treatment (expected)
• • Dry or red skin
• • Temporary pain if the current is too high
• • Not for people with implanted electrical devices
• • Do not use over broken skin

Compare this option

• Compare: dermadry vs hidrex vs ra fischer →

Sources for this treatment

Important numbers and approved uses on this page link back to the research or official information that supports them.

Frequently asked

Which home iontophoresis device should I get?

Choose based on the body areas you need to treat, comfort, power, warranty, parts, and price. See the device comparison for a side-by-side view.

How long until I see results?

Some people improve within two to three weeks. Full results may take four to six weeks. Cutting sessions too soon can let sweating return.

Is iontophoresis covered by insurance?

Coverage varies. An insurer may ask for a clinician's note and proof that a strong antiperspirant did not work.

Read next

• Check my sweating →
• Where sweating happens →
• How we research our guides →

Where this fits