Facial Galvanic

A galvanic current can be used for both Face and Body work. Basically the principals are the same, but for now we will concentrate on the face. Galvanic works on the principal of producing chemical substances under the electrodes used in the treatments. These in turn have specific effects on the skin and underlying tissues. The current applied to the tissues generally increases blood and lymphatic circulation but it is used more for the specific treatments below.

There are two ways in which we use this treatment;

§  Desincrustation

§  Iontophoresis

Desincrustation

This treatment is always worked with the Active electrode, using a negative polarity. Therefore the Indifferent electrode, the one held by the client is positive. The chemical produced under the Active electrode is Sodium Hydroxide its primary use is to deep cleanse the skin. Desincrustation is performed for between 5 to 10 minutes depending on skin type and is more suited to a greasy seborrhoeic acne type skin, but all skin types, except extremely sensitive benefit from this type of cleanse and is performed by the therapist with discretion.

Benefits of a negative (-) polarity

§  Improves circulation

§  Deep cleanses the skin

§  Removes the surface dead skin cells and sebum

§  Opens pores

Iontophoresis

This treatment is used to pass products through an unbroken skin by the use of the galvanic current for particular skin types or specific skin conditions, e.g: oily or dry skin or acne or couperose skins. Gels or ampoules are used that have been ionised and according to the manufacturer’s instructions the Active electrode uses a negative or a positive polarity. i.e. If the product is ionised negative (-) to positive (+) the active electrode should be negative and if the product is ionised positive (+) to negative (-) the active electrode should be positive. Iontophoresis is performed for 5 to 7 minutes always reversing the polarity of the active electrode for the last 1-2 minutes of the treatment to restore the pH balance of the skin which is disturbed by the galvanic current.

Benefits of a positive (+) polarity:

§  Hydrochloric acid is produced under the electrode

§  Closes pores

§  Helps reduce redness and heat

§  Penetrates positively (+) charged products into the skin

Iontophoresis normally follows Desincrustation, but, if only the cleanse is performed, the reversal of polarity is used at the end of the treatment.

For more information on our Electrotherapy Machines please visit our website at; http://www.thecarltongroup.co.uk.