This procedure employs the use of weak electric current to slow down sweat production. It requires the purchase of a battery-operated device with a removal pad. The pad is soaked either with tap water or a dilute solution of aluminum chloride in tap water. The device is placed in the armpit and turned on for approximately 20-30 minutes. During this time, the low voltage electric current is used to drive the tap water with or without aluminum chloride into the duct of the eccrine sweat gland to create a plug. This plug prevents the release of the sweat into the armpit. Devices are also available for the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
The primary drawback to this technique is the time required to administer the treatments. With continued use, it is possible to cut back on the frequency or sessions from daily, to twice weekly, to once weekly. It is key to maintain the plug in the sweat duct for efficacy. Once the plug is gone, the previous rate of sweating will return. Unfortunately, iontophoresis can only decrease the amount of sweating, not stop it completely (12).