Is iontophoresis associated with a negative or positive charge?

Iontophoresis is a technique that utilizes electric current to drive ionized substances into the skin, enhancing the penetration of certain active ingredients. In this process, the charge associated with the ions being delivered plays a crucial role. When using iontophoresis, the electrodes can be set to either a positive or negative charge, but the charged ions in the product you are introducing determine how this technique is applied.

When a product containing positively charged ions is used, the positive electrode (anode) is typically utilized to facilitate the process. This allows the positively charged ions to be pushed into the skin, which is crucial for treatments where this type of ionic delivery is desired. Therefore, iontophoresis is often associated with the use of a positive charge when delivering these specific ingredients into the skin.

Understanding the importance of the ionic nature of the substances being applied helps to justify the selection of the positive charge in many facial treatments, especially those aimed at enhancing hydration, lifting, or treating specific skin concerns.