Outline Galvanic
- What is a galvanic machine and how does it work?
- What are the benefits of using a galvanic machine in skincare treatments?
- Can a galvanic machine help improve skin tone and texture?
- Is a galvanic machine safe to use on all skin types?
- How often should a galvanic machine be used for optimal results?
- Can a galvanic machine help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles?
- Are there any specific skincare products that should be used with a galvanic machine?
- Does a galvanic machine require special training to use correctly?
- Can a galvanic machine help with deep cleansing and detoxification of the skin?
- Are there any side effects or precautions to consider when using a galvanic machine for skincare treatments?
1. What is a galvanic machine and how does it work?
1.What is Galvanic?
A galvanic machine is a skincare device that uses low-level, continuous direct electrical current to perform two main functions on the skin:
Iontophoresis (product penetration)
Desincrustation (deep cleansing)
Here’s how it works:
Direct Current (DC):
The galvanic machine sends a steady direct current into the skin. This current has two poles: positive (+) and negative (−). The esthetician or client holds one electrode, and the other electrode is used to treat the skin.
2. Two Main Functions:
Desincrustation (Deep Cleaning):
Uses the negative pole.
Helps soften sebum and debris trapped in the pores.
Ideal for oily, congested, acne-prone skin.
Often uses an alkaline (baking soda) solution to create a chemical reaction called saponification, turning oils into soap, making them easier to remove.
Iontophoresis (Product Penetration):
Uses positive or negative pole, depending on the product charge.
Pushes water-soluble, charged serums deep into the skin.
Positive pole tightens the skin, calms, and reduces redness.
Negative pole stimulates circulation and softens tissues.
3. Why It’s Effective:
Improves deep cleansing beyond manual extractions.
Increases absorption of treatment serums into deeper layers of skin.
Enhances hydration, tone, and texture.
2. What are the benefits of using a galvanic machine in skincare treatments?
Deep Cleansing (Desincrustation):
Softens hardened sebum and impurities deep in the pores.
Makes extractions easier and less damaging to the skin.
Especially beneficial for oily, acne-prone, and congested skin.
Enhanced Product Penetration (Iontophoresis):
- Pushes active ingredients from serums deep into the skin layers.
- Makes treatments more effective by delivering nutrients directly to where they are needed.
Improves Skin Hydration:
- Helps water-based serums penetrate deeper, improving moisture retention.
- Leaves skin feeling softer, plumper, and more hydrated.
Boosts Circulation:
- Increases blood flow and oxygen to the skin tissues
- Gives skin a healthy, natural glow.
Firms and Tightens the Skin:
Using the positive pole can tone the skin by tightening tissues.
Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and puffiness.
Calms and Soothes the Skin:
The positive charge also helps soothe sensitive skin, reduce redness, and minimize irritation.
Supports Healing:
Stimulates skin regeneration and healing, especially after acne or minor trauma.
Non-Invasive and Gentle:
No needles, no downtime, and suitable for most skin types when used properly.
3. Can a galvanic machine help improve skin tone and texture?
1. Boosts blood circulation:
The electrical current stimulates better blood flow, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the skin. This gives a healthier, more even tone.
2. Enhances hydration:
By pushing water-based serums deep into the skin (iontophoresis), it improves the moisture level, making the skin look plumper, smoother, and softer.
3. Deep cleans clogged pores:
Through desincrustation (using the negative pole), it removes dirt and hardened oils from deep within the pores, preventing bumps and roughness, and leaving the skin clearer and more refined.
4. Tightens and firms the skin:
Using the positive pole, the galvanic machine helps contract the tissues slightly, which can tighten pores, reduce puffiness, and smooth out fine lines — leading to a fresher, firmer skin texture.
Deep cleans clogged pores:
Through desincrustation (using the negative pole), it removes dirt and hardened oils from deep within the pores, preventing bumps and roughness, and leaving the skin clearer and more refined.
5. Improves serum delivery:
Active ingredients like Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and peptides can work more effectively when they reach deeper skin layers, helping with brightening, texture smoothing, and collagen stimulation.
4. Is a galvanic machine safe to use on all skin types?
Mostly yes, but with some important cautions.
A galvanic machine is generally safe for most skin types, especially when used correctly. However, there are exceptions where you need to be careful or even avoid using it.
✅ Safe to use for:
Normal skin (for hydration and product absorption)
Dry/dehydrated skin (to push moisturizing serums deeper)
Oily/acne-prone skin (to help with deep cleansing)
Aging skin (to improve tone, texture, and firmness)
Dull skin (to brighten and smooth)
⚠️ Use with caution or avoid if the client has:
Metal implants (such as pacemakers, plates, pins, dental braces) – electricity could interfere.
Pregnancy – better to avoid just to be safe (lack of research).
Severe acne with open wounds – galvanic could irritate or worsen the condition.
Rosacea or very sensitive skin – could overstimulate and cause redness.
Broken capillaries or couperose skin – electrical current may make it worse.
Epilepsy – avoid electrical stimulation.
Heart conditions – consult a physician first.
Recent facial surgeries or injectables (like Botox, fillers) – usually need to wait 2–4 weeks.
Good practice:
✨ Always perform a thorough consultation before using a galvanic machine.
✨ Always test the sensation on a small area first and adjust the current to the client’s comfort level.
5. How often should a galvanic machine be used for optimal results?
For optimal results, a galvanic machine should typically be used:
Once every 2 weeks for beginners or clients new to treatment
Once a week for targeted treatment plans (like acne, dehydration, or pigmentation)
Every 4–6 weeks for maintenance after achieving desired results
Here’s a simple guide depending on goals:
| Skin Concern | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deep cleansing (oily skin) | Every 1–2 weeks | Until skin clears, then monthly maintenance |
| Hydration (dry skin) | Every 1–2 weeks | Focus on moisture serums |
| Anti-aging (fine lines) | Weekly or biweekly | Combine with lifting and firming serums |
| Brightening (dull skin) | Every 2 weeks | Use Vitamin C serums |
| Maintenance (healthy skin) | Every 4–6 weeks | To keep skin refreshed |
🔔 Important reminders:
Always check skin condition before each session — if the skin is irritated, wait longer.
Results build over time — it’s not an instant transformation after one session!
Customize frequency depending on how sensitive the client’s skin is and their treatment goals.
6. Can a galvanic machine help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles?
Yes, absolutely! 🌟
A galvanic machine can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by:
🌀 How it works:
Stimulating Blood Circulation:
The gentle electric current increases blood flow.
More oxygen and nutrients reach the skin, supporting collagen and elastin production (which keeps the skin firm and youthful).
Enhancing Product Absorption:
Galvanic iontophoresis pushes anti-aging serums (like peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C) deeper into the skin.
These ingredients work better when they reach the lower layers, promoting plumping and smoothing.
Firming and Tightening the Skin:
Using the positive (+) pole causes a slight contraction of tissues, temporarily tightening the skin’s appearance.
It can make fine lines look less visible almost immediately after treatment.
Improving Hydration:
Well-hydrated skin looks fuller and less wrinkled.
Galvanic helps skin absorb hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid more deeply.
🎯 Best serums to use for anti-aging galvanic treatments:
Peptide serums (for collagen boost)
Hyaluronic acid serums (for deep hydration)
Vitamin C serums (for brightening and collagen production)
📋 Quick Tip:
For wrinkle reduction, it’s usually best to do galvanic treatments once a week for 4–6 weeks, then switch to monthly maintenance.
7. Are there any specific skincare products that should be used with a galvanic machine?
Yes!
To get the best (and safest) results with a galvanic machine, you need to use specific types of skincare products — mainly water-based and ionized serums or solutions.
✅ Products that are ideal for galvanic use:
Water-Based Serums:
Must be light and non-oily so the current can flow easily.
Examples:
Hyaluronic acid serum (hydration)
Vitamin C serum (brightening)
Peptide serum (anti-aging)
Niacinamide serum (large pores, brightening)
Electrolyte Gels or Conductive Gels:
Helps improve conductivity of the electric current.
Used after applying serum and before moving the electrode on the skin.
Desincrustation Solution (for Deep Cleansing):
A slightly alkaline solution (often contains baking soda) used during desincrustation with the negative pole to soften oil and debris inside pores.
Ionized Serums (if available):
Some companies label serums as positive (+) or negative (–) charged for better compatibility.
If not labeled, you choose the serum based on treatment goals (hydrating, brightening, anti-aging) and use the matching pole accordingly.
⚡ Important Rules:
Always water-based, never oil-based. (Oil blocks electrical flow.)
Avoid heavy creams or lotions during treatment.
Check pH: Ideal serums have a pH close to the skin’s natural range (~5–6), unless you are doing desincrustation (then slightly alkaline is okay).
🎯 Quick Examples:
| Concern | Serum | Pole to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Hydration | Hyaluronic acid | Positive (+) |
| Brightening | Vitamin C serum | Positive (+) |
| Anti-aging | Peptide serum | Positive (+) |
| Oily/Clogged pores | Baking soda solution | Negative (–) |
| Large pores | Niacinamide serum | Positive (+) |
8. Does a galvanic machine require special training to use correctly?
Yes, it does!
Even though a galvanic machine seems simple, it requires special training to use it correctly and safely.
Here’s why:
🎓 Why Training is Important:
Understanding Electrical Current:
You must know how to safely use direct current (DC) on the skin without causing irritation or burns.
You need to adjust intensity based on skin type and treatment goal.
Choosing the Right Pole (+ or –):
Using the wrong pole can reverse the effect or cause skin damage.
You must match the product’s charge and the client’s needs.
Product Knowledge:
Not all serums are safe or effective with galvanic.
You need to select water-based, conductive products.
Client Safety and Contraindications:
You must know who should not receive galvanic treatment (example: pregnancy, pacemakers, metal implants, etc.).
Proper consultation is necessary to avoid health risks.
Correct Technique:
Proper application steps: cleanse → apply serum → cover with gauze (sometimes) → use conductive gel → electrode movement.
Movement patterns (lifting, smoothing, lifting out from center) matter for best results.
Sanitation and Equipment Care:
Electrodes must be disinfected properly after each use to prevent infection.
Machine settings must be maintained carefully.
📚 In most professional settings:
Estheticians must complete special courses (sometimes part of their esthetics license training) that teach galvanic theory and hands-on practice.
Some brands or schools offer certifications specifically for galvanic or electrotherapy devices.
✅ Summary:
If you’re planning to offer galvanic facials professionally (or even just for yourself), formal training or certification is highly recommended — not only for safety but also to deliver the best results.
9. Can a galvanic machine help with deep cleansing and detoxification of the skin?
Yes, absolutely! 🌟
A galvanic machine is one of the best tools for deep cleansing and detoxifying the skin — especially when using the desincrustation method.
🧼 How it helps with deep cleansing and detoxification:
Desincrustation (Negative Pole Treatment):
A negative current is used together with an alkaline solution (like baking soda and water).
This softens hardened sebum, loosens dirt, and breaks down clogged oils inside pores.
It turns oil into a soap-like substance through a chemical reaction called saponification, making extractions easier and cleaner.
Draws Out Impurities:
The electrical current helps pull toxins, dirt, and cellular waste out of the skin.
Especially helpful for blackheads, whiteheads, and congested pores.
Improves Circulation:
Increases blood and lymphatic flow, helping the skin eliminate waste more efficiently.
Prepares Skin for Better Absorption:
After detoxifying, the skin is perfectly clean and ready to absorb treatment serums like hydration, brightening, or anti-aging formulas.
🎯 Ideal for clients who have:
Oily or combination skin
Congested pores and blackheads
Dull, tired-looking skin
Skin prone to frequent breakouts
✅ Summary:
Using the galvanic machine for deep cleansing not only clears the pores but also revives the skin’s glow by removing built-up impurities and stimulating better circulation.
10. Are there any side effects or precautions to consider when using a galvanic machine for skincare treatments?
Yes, there are some side effects and important precautions to consider when using a galvanic machine for skincare treatments — even though it’s generally very safe when used correctly.
⚡ Possible Side Effects:
Mild tingling or metallic taste in the mouth (because of the electrical current — this is normal and temporary).
Slight redness after treatment (due to increased circulation, usually fades quickly).
Dryness or tightness if the treatment is overdone or the skin is very sensitive.
Increased sensitivity if used on already irritated or inflamed skin.
🚫 Precautions and Contraindications (when you should NOT use galvanic):
| Do Not Use If: | Why: |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy | Safety concerns due to electrical currents |
| Pacemaker, metal implants, braces | Risk of interference or electrical shock |
| Epilepsy | Electrical stimulation could trigger seizures |
| Heart conditions | Can affect heart rhythm |
| Severe acne with open wounds | Can worsen irritation and spread bacteria |
| Extremely sensitive or couperose skin | Can cause broken capillaries or more redness |
| Recent facial surgery or cosmetic injections | Skin needs time to heal properly |
| Active rosacea or eczema | Electrical current may aggravate flare-ups |
🧼 Safety Tips:
Always do a thorough consultation before starting treatment.
Always start with low intensity and adjust based on client comfort.
Always use proper conductive products (water-based, no oils).
Keep electrodes moving — don’t hold them in one spot for too long.
Disinfect electrodes after each use to prevent infections.
✅ Summary:
The galvanic machine is very safe and effective — as long as you know when not to use it and how to properly handle the device and products.
Frequently asked questions
- What skin type is galvanic good for?
- Though they are beneficial for all skin types, galvanic facials work particularly for dry/dehydrated skin.
- How long does it take to see results from a galvanic spa?
- Dr. Chacon says, “The majority of people notice and feel a difference right away after using the galvanic spa, but the biggest benefits will be observed after one month of constant use.”
- How long does the galvanic facial treatment take?
- A session lasts anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour.
- How many galvanic treatment sessions are needed?
- You may go for a galvanic facial twice a week, depending on your age. If you are in your 20s, you may try it once or twice in two weeks.
- What is the cost of the galvanic facial treatment?
- It depends on the area you are in, the salon, and the expertise of the aesthetician.
- How long does a galvanic facial last?
- Results of galvanic facials last for 1-2 years after completion of a series of facial treatments as recommended and with proper maintenance.
- Can I use a galvanic spa every day?
- No, galvanic spas and facial gels should be used as recommended. They are usually recommended for use two to three times a week.
Can use galvanic over sheet mask ?
Good question — but no, it’s not a good idea to use the galvanic machine directly over a regular sheet mask.
Here’s why:
❌ Why you should not use galvanic over a sheet mask:
Most sheet masks are too thick and block electrical current from passing through properly.
Serum inside the mask may not have the right conductivity (many masks are mixed with oils, heavy creams, or thick gel formulas).
The electricity needs direct contact with a water-based serum and the skin (through a thin layer like gauze or conductive gel), not a thick mask.
You cannot control the conductivity evenly if there’s a thick sheet material between the electrode and the skin.
✅ Correct way if you want to combine hydration and galvanic:
Remove the sheet mask.
Apply a water-based hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid).
Cover skin with damp gauze (optional for even conductivity).
Apply a conductive gel over the gauze or directly over the serum.
Then use the galvanic machine with the correct setting (usually positive (+) pole for hydration and tightening).
👉 After finishing galvanic treatment, you can still apply a sheet mask afterward to soothe and lock in moisture if you want extra pampering!
✅ Summary:
Galvanic first → then sheet mask after treatment = Good.
Galvanic over a thick sheet mask = Not effective, not recommended.
Protocol Iontophoresis
- Cleanse
- Apply treatment gel
- Wet paper towel wrap Negative (-), let client hold
- The esthetician hold positive wand (gel already apply), let the wand touch the client first then turn machine on
- Move around whole face or neck
- During services, the wand always contact to client face not raise off the wand
- Turn off machine before get off the face
- Once done, remove the remaining gel from your face with a wet cloth or towel
- Apply a face serum or moisturizer
- Apply SPF
- Note: If the gel dries up during the treatment, apply a little bit of water and continue. Also, make sure that the flow of current is consistent.
Protocol Desincrustation
Cleanse
Apply Baking soda, or desincrustation solution
Wet paper towel wrap Positive(+), let client hold
The esthetician hold Negativewand let the wand touch the client first then turn machine on
Move around face where they need to be treat.
During services, the wand always contact to client face not raise off the wand
Turn off machine before get off the face
Once done, clean the face with a wet cloth or towel.
Can use soothing mask + cold hammer
Hyfrequency
ionphoresis
Apply a face serum or moisturizer
Apply SPF
How to use desincrustation: AVOID
-inflamed acne
-couperose skin
-active pustules
Potential Side Effect
- Mild headache
- Tingling feeling
- Unpleasant feeling
- Metallic taste in their mouth
Pre care
Stop using any retinoids or harsh exfoliants 5-7 days before the treatment
Remove any metal jewelry before you undergo a high frequency treatment
Post -care
Avoid direct sunlight
Apply SPF
Avoid extreme weather conditions
Avoid saunas and other heat treatments
No active ingredients following treatment-AHAs, BHAs, Retinol
To use gauze or not to use Gauze
✅ Why Gauze Is Recommended in Galvanic Treatments
1. Enhances Client Comfort and Safety
Placing a moistened gauze between the electrode and the skin helps distribute the electrical current evenly, reducing the risk of discomfort or irritation. This is particularly important during desincrustation, where the current can cause a tingling sensation.
2. Improves Conductivity
A damp gauze enhances the conductivity of the galvanic current, ensuring that the treatment is effective. It facilitates the proper flow of ions, which is essential for both iontophoresis and desincrustation procedures.
3. Maintains Hygiene Standards
Using a fresh, disposable gauze for each client helps maintain high hygiene standards, preventing cross-contamination and ensuring a clean treatment environment.
4. Protects the Skin
The gauze acts as a barrier, minimizing direct contact between the electrode and the skin. This is especially beneficial for clients with sensitive skin, as it reduces the likelihood of adverse reactions.
🧴 Application in Specific Treatments
- Desincrustation: Apply a desincrustation solution to the skin, then cover the area with a moistened gauze before using the electrode. This setup aids in emulsifying sebum and preparing the skin for extractions.
- Iontophoresis: After applying a water-soluble, ionized serum to the skin, place a damp gauze over the area. Then, proceed with the electrode to facilitate deeper penetration of the product into the skin layers.
📝 Summary
While not an absolute requirement, using gauze during galvanic treatments is a best practice that enhances the safety, effectiveness, and hygiene of the procedure. It is particularly beneficial for clients with sensitive skin or when working with potent solutions.
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