Hyperhidrosis is a pathological condition characterized by excessive secretion of sweat by the sweat glands, above the normal amount required for the thermoregulation of the body. 

The apocrine glands are located in body parts with great concentration of hair follicles like the armpits and the genitals.

The classification of hyperhidrosis is done in different ways, but the most common is the distinction between  idiopathic and pathological Hyperhidrosis.

Idiopathic is defined as  excessive sweating, which is symmetrical and is found on the hands, feet or armpits and happens regardless of  the thermoregulation of the body. Also hyperhidrosis  due to emotional factors has mainly negative social impact . It affects sweating on the hands, feet , armpits and the face.

Iontophoresis is used to treat hyperhidrosis  on the hands, feet , armpits and the face. During  Iontophoresis  the patient  sit with both hands or both feet, or one hand and one foot, immersed in shallow trays filled with tap water ( without any pharmaceutical substance ) for a short period of time (15 to 40 minutes depending on the device) while the device sends a small electrical current through the water.  After a few sessions   hyperhidrosis  is significantly reduced and after 10-12 stops totally .

The procedure causes  disruption of the operation of the sweat glands, without destroying them as it causes temporary  deterioration of some proteins necessary for their function. It causes no permanent damage and after a while the function continues normally. The treatment must be repeated once weekly until  complete elimination  of  hyperhidrosis . The number of sessions varies between 4-8 sessions.

Iontophoresis should not be used or used only under medical consultation in following cases   :

• Cardiac disorder
• Implanted electronic devices (pace maker)
• Metallic Implanted   devices in areas where the current flows
• Pregnancy
• extended skin disease
• decreased pain sensation