Electroporation is a technique used mainly to help introduce chemicals or treatments inside the cells by boosting the permeability of the cell membrane. This occurs through the introduction of high electrical energy which creates small channels on the cell membrane to allow the passage of the intended chemicals.
This was mainly used in microbiology and genetic studies. Electroporation clinical applications include cancer treatment, as well as gene therapy, and vaccine development.
Recently, dermatologists introduced the concept of electroporation in skin treatment (dermal electroporation) to intensify the effects of the chemical materials used such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C serum, whitening serum, and other materials to solve some skin problems such as aging signs. This is called transdermal drug delivery which offers the advantage to deliver the drug without being metabolized as what happens in the oral route.
Electroporation is a safe painless way to create temporary pores in the cell membrane of the deeper skin layer through high voltage electric waves for a short time to increase the skin permeability and absorption of the applied nutrients or treatment to treat certain skin conditions or skin rejuvenation.
Studies have shown that electroporation helped introduce molecules to the deeper layers of skin 90%more than other conventional methods. It is a painless and less invasive technique when compared to the micro-needling method. Electroporation can create up to 500 more channels than that formed by the iontophoresis technique.
The main problem facing dermatologists is the selective permeability characteristic of the skin owing to its stratum corneum layer which while provide protection to the body, prevents the passage of specific chemical composition compounds (large molecules and hydrophilic materials).
Electroporation was the key to increasing skin permeability and enhancing the absorption of the intended treatment materials through the introduction of high voltage electric energy for a short time (a few seconds). It is a safe, non-invasive, painless option to address multiple skin problems such as:
Average Cost
$90
Price Range
$30 to $150
Although Electroporation is a safe technique, it may elicit temporary cell membrane damage by creating micro pores that may result in the death of a few cells, which only occurs when using an inappropriate electric current.
Your dermatologist will give you some post-operative instructions to follow. That may include:
We understand you may want to change your plans due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and its health implications.
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Skin electroporation is a safe painless technique that is suitable for all skin types. But few side effects may be seen due to improper adjustment of the electric current or overuse, such as itching or pricking sensation, few cell death, or skin dehydration due to water loss. These risks can be avoided by the correct use of the electric current, application time, and frequency according to the doctor’s recommendation.
How does electroporation work?
The electroporation technique involves the application of a high voltage electric pulse for a short time. This time is sufficient to open small channels or pores in the outer layer of the skin to allow the passage of specially formulated treatments or nutrients to help solve the addressed skin problem. Don’t worry these pores are not permanent, they close once the electroporation device is stopped.
Is Dermal Electroporation suitable for everyone?
Dermal Electroporation can be used for all skin types, but it is not indicated in the following medical conditions: epilepsy, pregnancy, breastfeeding, patients with bone implants, and cancer patients. Also, some local conditions may contraindicate the use of electroporation such as active skin infection, allergy, atopic dermatitis, warts, photosensitivity, and dry irritated skin.
What are the side effects of Electroporation?
Electroporation is non-invasive, painless, suitable for all skin types, and has no side effects unless unsuitable voltage is selected which may lead to itching and pricking sensation and sometimes cell death. These risks can be avoided by the correct use of the electric current, application time, and frequency according to the doctor’s recommendation.