Iontophoresis

Last Updated: August 18, 2026

Excessive sweating—clinically known as hyperhidrosis—is frustrating. It gets in the way of professional handshakes, ruins paperwork, and simply makes daily life uncomfortable. Whether you are reading this from abroad looking for solutions or you are right here in Nepal, there are proven ways to manage it.

At Derma Clinic, patients have access to advanced hyperhidrosis treatment, featuring medical-grade iontophoresis for sweaty hands (palmar), feet (plantar), and underarms (axillary).

Iontophoresis is widely recognized by dermatologists as a highly effective, first-line option for managing excessive sweat without the need for surgery or heavy medications.

Understanding Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is a safe, FDA-cleared medical procedure that uses a mild electrical current to temporarily pause the sweat glands in targeted areas.

How It Works

The science behind it is actually quite simple and relies on standard tap water:

  1. Setup: The affected hands or feet rest in shallow medical trays filled with water.
  2. Activation: A specialized device passes a very mild, controlled electrical current through the water.
  3. The Result: This current interacts with the natural minerals in the water to create a temporary, microscopic “plug” in your sweat ducts. This blocks the sweat from reaching the skin’s surface.

For patients with highly resistant sweating, clinical staff can safely add natural additives like baking soda to the water to improve the treatment’s effectiveness.

Iontophoresis Treatment Costs at Derma Clinic

We keep pricing straightforward and affordable. Below is the detailed cost structure for iontophoresis sessions at our Kathmandu clinic:

Treatment AreaPrice (Per Session)Description
Both Hands (Palms)Rs. 1,000Bilateral treatment of both hands
Both Feet (Soles)Rs. 1,000Bilateral treatment of both feet
Hands + FeetRs. 1,500Comprehensive bilateral treatment

Note: Initial package deals are available to help bring down the cost of the first few weeks of treatment. Please ask our front desk about these packages.

What to Expect During Treatment

Getting your sweating under control is a gradual process. Here is how the treatments are structured:

Initial Consultation

Before starting, a specialist will check your medical history to make sure iontophoresis is safe for you. (For example, it is not recommended for individuals with pacemakers or certain metal implants).

The Treatment Session

You simply sit and place your hands or feet in the water trays. The clinic staff slowly turns up the current until you feel a mild tingling sensation. You sit comfortably like this for about 20 to 40 minutes.

Frequency and Maintenance

Consistency is the most important part of this treatment.

  • Starting Out: You will need 2 to 3 sessions a week. Most people notice their hands or feet getting significantly drier after 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Maintenance: Once your sweating has stopped, you will only need to come in once every 1 to 4 weeks to keep the sweat ducts blocked.

There is no recovery time. You can go straight back to work, typing, or exercising the moment you leave the clinic.

Benefits of Choosing Iontophoresis

  • No Needles or Drugs: It completely avoids surgical risks (like compensatory sweating caused by ETS surgery) and avoids daily pills.
  • Highly Targeted: It only stops sweat exactly where you need it to, without affecting the rest of your body’s ability to cool down.
  • Cost-Effective: It is much cheaper over time compared to buying expensive clinical antiperspirants or paying for surgical procedures.
  • Safe and Simple: Side effects are minimal. If your skin gets a little too dry, standard hand lotion fixes it easily.

Why Visit Derma Clinic?

Finding reliable care for hyperhidrosis can be tough. Derma Clinic provides a comfortable, professional environment for local residents, expats, and international visitors.

Every treatment plan is overseen by qualified specialists, including our primary consultant dermatologist Dr. Utsav Sharma. We use medical-grade devices to ensure the electrical currents are consistent and safe, and we tailor the settings to match your skin sensitivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sessions do I need before my hands actually stop sweating?

Most people need about 6 to 10 initial sessions (usually spread over 2 to 4 weeks) before they experience real, lasting dryness.

Does the electric current hurt?

Not at all. It feels like a mild tingling or “pins and needles” sensation. The clinical staff will always adjust the machine so it stays completely comfortable for you.

Can I use my phone while my hands are in the water?

Since both hands need to remain submerged in the trays to complete the electrical circuit, you won’t be able to scroll on your phone. We recommend listening to a podcast or music, or simply relaxing during your 20-minute session.

Will my hands get too dry or start peeling?

Sometimes the treatment works so well that your skin might feel a bit dry or chalky afterward. Applying a basic moisturizer between sessions easily takes care of this.

Can I do this if I have cuts or scrapes on my hands?

Yes, but the current can sting open cuts. We will simply apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) over any scratches or paper cuts before you put your hands in the water to protect them.

Is this a permanent cure for my sweaty feet?

It is not a permanent cure, but it is a long-lasting management tool. To keep the sweat away, you will just need to drop in for a quick maintenance session every few weeks.

Are these treatments available right now in Kathmandu?

Yes, Derma Clinic is fully equipped with iontophoresis machines and is currently accepting patients for this treatment.

Further Reading & Clinical Resources

To learn more about the science of sweat and global treatment standards, you can check out these trusted resources:

Book Your Session

Do not let sweaty palms or feet dictate your daily life. Iontophoresis is a practical, effective way to get your comfort back.

Book your appointment today and get started.