Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the purpose of using galvannic current in skincare treatments?

1. To provide moisture to the skin

2. To enhance product penetration

3. To irritate the skin

4. To promote exfoliation

The correct answer is: To enhance product penetration

Using galvanic current in skincare treatments primarily serves to enhance product penetration. This low-level electrical current creates a pathway for active ingredients in skincare products to more effectively penetrate the skin barrier. The two main effects of galvanic current that facilitate this process are iontophoresis and disincrustation. Iontophoresis involves the introduction of positively or negatively charged substances into the skin through the application of a galvanic current. By matching the charge of the product with the current, the active ingredients are driven deeper into the skin, maximizing their effectiveness. In contrast, disincrustation utilizes the current's ability to soften and emulsify sebum and impurities in the skin, which is beneficial for deep cleansing and preparing the skin for further treatments. This process opens up the pores, allowing for deeper absorption of topical treatments applied afterward. While moisture is important for skin health, galvanic current does not function primarily to provide moisture itself. Similarly, promoting exfoliation and irritation are not typical purposes of galvanic therapy in a skincare context. Thus, enhancing product penetration is the most accurate representation of the purpose of using galvanic current in treatments.