Galvanic Facial Treatments: The Classic Ion Delivery Technique

Galvanic iontophoresis uses a DC field to push charged actives through skin: positively charged ingredients enter at the positive pole, negative at the negative. The classic two-step: positive (vitamin C derivatives, acidic cleansers — export and pore cleansing) → negative (water-soluble nutrients — infusion). One order of magnitude beyond passive topical delivery (see the family tree in needle-free infusion).

• Current: milliamp range from low settings; tingling means too high.
• Complete path: current needs a body loop — electrode placement and contact area shape feel and efficiency.
• Contraindications: pacemakers, pregnancy (abdomen), broken skin, near metal implants.
• Medium discipline: dry electrodes cause hot spots — conductive gel must be generous.

The classic, cheapest infusion technique: small investment, gentle learning curve, fits nearly all clients. It anchors the infusion module of multi-function platforms and hydration courses; electroporation delivers more but galvanic wins on stability and cost.

Metal electrode allergy?

Some clients react to nickel-type metals — choose inert plating (gold/titanium) or silicone electrodes and shorten single-point contact.

Galvanic or electroporation?

Budget and positioning: galvanic is steady, cheap, sufficient; electroporation delivers more with a more “technical” feel. Salons often start galvanic, upgrade later.

• Infusion
• Microcurrent
• Platforms