Treatment of Side Effects Caused by Electrically Powered Medical Skin Care Equipment / 대한피부과학회지

ABSTRACT

Radio frequency and iontophoresis are two commonly used types of medical skin care equipment, utilizing electrical energy. Radio frequency technology has become an important treatment in aesthetic medicine, and has many applications, including non-ablative tightening of the cutaneous tissue to improve skin laxity and to reduce wrinkles. Iontophoresis on the other hand uses a small electric charge to deliver medicine or other chemicals through the stratum corneum, the principle barrier to percutaneous absorption, without the use of a needle. It is used mainly for aesthetic reasons, including treatment of melasma, and for anti-aging therapy. Effective cosmetic results have been demonstrated for both these techniques in a number of studies. However, recklessness and incorrect use of the machines by unqualified practitioners can cause side effects. Here, we review the possible side effects and related coping strategies associated with radio frequency and iontophoresis.