Dermatological applications of iontophoresis

Transdermal drug delivery is applicable to only a few drugs because the stratum comeum is an excellent barrier to percutaneous absorption. Iontophoresis is a non-invasive technique which increases the drug deliveries into the skin through an electric current. In iontophoretic systems, the movement of ionized drugs is facilitated by electrical energy according to the basic electrical principles of "like charges repel each other and opposite charges attract". Iontophoresis has been explored for many dermatological applications with considerably successful reports. This article reviews the principles and advantages/limitations of iontophoresis, the factors affecting iontophoresis and its applications in various dermatological conditions.