Ionithermie

Ionithermie is a cosmetology treatment performed in spas, intended to remove cellulite using electrical muscle stimulation combined with a lotion made of algae, seaweed extracts and amino acids.[1][2] The lotion is mixed with clay, and electrodes are placed on the clay to enact iontophoresis.[3] The specific materials vary from treatment provider,[2] such as including guarana extract,[1] and the results are generally small.[4] It uses direct current and is similar to another cellulite electrotherapy treatment called galvanization.[5]

Ionthermie was invented by French biochemist Olivier Fouche in 1978,[6][2] although a separate source claims it was invented in 1979.[5]

While it has been described as pseudoscientific,[2] one study in 2006 reported modest results.[1][7]: 120 

References

1. Feldman, Melissa (2018-03-09). "Ionithermie Cellulite Treatment Reviews: Does It Work?". Consumer Health Digest. Retrieved 2023-12-24.
2. Murad Alam, Jeffrey S. Dover (2008). Non-Surgical Skin Tightening and Lifting. Procedures in Cosmetic Dermatology Series. Edinburgh: Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 121. ISBN 978-1416059608. OCLC 213447776.
3. "Ionithermie". Skeptoid. Retrieved 2023-12-24.
4. Coleman, Kyle M.; Coleman, William P.; Benchetrit, Arie (December 2009). "Non-Invasive, External Ultrasonic Lipolysis". Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 28 (4): 263–267. doi:10.1016/j.sder.2009.10.004. ISSN 1085-5629. PMID 20123426.
5. Laskowska, Justyna; Hadław-Klimaszewska, Olga; Jankowska, Agnieszka; Zdziechowski, Adam; Woldańska-Okońska, Marta (2021). "Overview of wellness methods for people practicing sports". Wiadomości Lekarskie. 74 (2): 355–361. doi:10.36740/wlek202102133. ISSN 0043-5147. PMID 33813500.
6. Abel, Steve (2023-08-25). "What Is Ionithermie Cellulite Reduction? - Cellulite Removal". Doctor Steve Abel. Retrieved 2023-12-24.
7. Taub, Amy Forman; Sadick, Neil S. (2009), "Non-Ablative Tightening and Lifting on the Body", Procedures in Cosmetic Dermatology Series: Non-Surgical Skin Tightening and Lifting, Elsevier, pp. 119–137, doi:10.1016/b978-1-4160-5960-8.50017-x, ISBN 978-1-4160-5960-8, retrieved 2023-12-24