In galvanic facial treatment, which pole is used to open the pores to enable penetration of active ingredients?

• A. Positive pole
• B. Negative pole
• C. Lymph drainage device
• D. Direct current

Answer: (B)

In galvanic facial treatment, penetration of active ingredients is driven by iontophoresis, and the effect depends on which electrode is used on the skin. Placing the negative pole on the face creates an alkaline environment at the skin surface because hydroxide ions are generated at the cathode. This alkaline shift softens and slightly expands the intercellular layer, effectively opening the pores and increasing permeability so the active ingredients can penetrate more easily. The positive pole would produce an acidic environment, which tightens the surface and reduces permeability, so it’s not used for enhancing penetration. So, the negative pole is the one used to open the pores for ingredient penetration.