New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the purpose of iontophoresis?

1. To cleanse the skin

2. To infuse products into the deeper layers of the epidermis

3. To reduce redness in the skin

4. To exfoliate dead skin cells

The correct answer is: To infuse products into the deeper layers of the epidermis

Iontophoresis is a technique commonly used in esthetics that involves the application of a small electrical current to the skin to enhance the delivery of active ingredients from skincare products into the deeper layers of the epidermis. This method facilitates the penetration of these products, making them more effective than when applied topically without assistance. The use of electrical currents during iontophoresis allows positively or negatively charged ingredients to permeate through the skin barrier, effectively enhancing absorption and ensuring that the active components reach targets within the skin. This is particularly beneficial for ingredients like vitamin C or other anti-aging compounds that work best when they penetrate deeply. While other methods and treatments can cleanse the skin, reduce redness, or exfoliate, their mechanisms and purposes differ from that of iontophoresis, which specifically focuses on increasing product infusion into the skin. Understanding this specialized function helps highlight the unique benefits and applications of iontophoresis in a skincare regimen.