Review of the Dermadry Iontophoresis Treatment Device for Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating, often in the underarms, on the palms of the hands, or on the soles of the feet. Not only is hyperhidrosis embarrassing, it can also make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
There are only two proven ways to treat hyperhidrosis at home: with topical treatments or with iontophoresis. Topical creams and solutions can irritate the skin, which is why many people choose to use iontophoresis. The folks at Dermadry were kind enough to send me their iontophoresis device to review* and these are my thoughts.
Iontophoresis works by sending electrical current through water. In my case, because my hyperhidrosis affects my hands and feet, that water is in large containers in which I place my hands or feet. As the electrical current moves through the water and into the skin, it carries along tiny minerals that are present in tap water. Over time, those minerals plug up the skin’s pores and prevent sweating. This is not pseudoscience — it is a medically-proven treatment option that works well for many people.
You can make an iontophoresis device at home with a large battery, some wire, and a couple of pans. A few years ago, I even designed a more user-friendly device that people could build. But if you aren’t tech-saavy, you have concerns about safety, or you want a sleek and refined option, then the Dermadry device may be for you. It does require a prescription in the US, but Dermadry has teamed up with physicians to make that prescription easy — and free — to get online.
When I first unpacked the Dermadry device, I found the build quality impressive. The device and the accompanying accessories come in a plastic briefcase-like container. That makes it easy to store out of the way when it isn’t in use and the two halves of the case are where you will pour water and place your hands or feet. There are also special electrodes and pads if you need to treat your underarms.
Setting up the device is straightforward. You place the two large electrode plates in the case, cover them with the provided towel pads, and fill the case with a few cups of water. Two cables connect the electrodes to the device and the final cable provides power from a standard wall outlet. All you need to do after that is select which part of your body you need to treat and the power level you want.
When you place your hands or feet in the water, the device will automatically begin supplying current. Polarity is important, so the device switches the polarity on its own during your treatment. Different people react to the electricity differently, so you can adjust the level of current to suit your body. After finishing the treatment, which takes 10–20 minutes depending on the selected options, you can pour out the water and pack everything back in the case (leaving the towels out to dry).
After using the Dermadry for the past couple of weeks, I can confidently recommend it. It works exactly as intended and I had no problems with its functionality. I’ve tried many products to treat my hyperhidrosis over the years and this is very effective. In just the time I’ve been using the Dermadry device, the amount of sweat from my hands and feet has reduced dramatically. If I had to make one complaint, it would be that the case should be easier to drain. But that is a minor gripe and not something that should dissuade you.
If you suffer from hyperhidrosis, then you already know how much of an effect it can have on your life and wellbeing. The Dermadry device is a real solution for treatment at home. If you want to try it, you can use this link and the coupon code “serialhobbyism” to receive $50 off of your purchase on the Dermadry website.
*I was given the Dermadry device to review for free, but I was not paid to write this review. This is not a sales pitch. These are my own thoughts and feelings.
