1. Galvanic Body Treatment
Unit B13
Week 17

2. Today’s objectives
Introduction to Galvanic & identify the equipment & products used.
Identify the effects of the treatment.
State the benefits, effects & indications of Body Galvanic.
Identify contra-indications & safety precautions of the treatment
State contra-actions, aftercare & treatment advice.
Set up the working area and perform the treatment safely & effectively for the advised treatment time.

3. Introduction
The aim of a body galvanic treatment is to soften areas of stubborn fat and disperse any fluid that is retained in the area. Therefore, the treatment disperses the lumpy fat cells associated with cellulite.

4. How it works
The effect is achieved by using the properties of the current and often the active ingredients within a gel substance, which has a stimulating effect. The products improve the interchange of tissue fluids in the area; in addition, the treatment also produces the specific benefits of the galvanic current. This treatment creates a slight warming and tingling sensation when applied, which the client must be informed about.

5. Iontophoresis and body galvanism
Galvanic currents are used in the following two ways in a body treatment:
1. Iontophoresis - introduces water-soluble anti-cellulite substances for specific effects using both the positive and negative pole (depending on manufacturer’s instructions). This substance will be repelled into the skin to produce the desired effect.
2. Body Galvanism - uses pads that are soaked in saline solution. The active electrode is the cathode (negative). The inactive electrode is placed opposite the active electrode.

6. Body Use Used in slimming treatments.
To improve the appearance of a cellulite condition.
To stimulate the circulation of blood and lymph.

7. Anatomy and Physiology
Acids are produced under the positive pole (the anode)
Alkalis are formed under the negative pole (the cathode)
The propelling of ionised cosmetics into the skin is called iontophoresis
The galvanic current stimulates the metabolism in the tissues and the localised movements of tissue fluids through the cell membranes. Tissue fluids are drawn towards the – pole (known as electro-osmosis) which may help to improve the appearance of lumpy tissue.

8. Electrical Science
The treatments effectiveness works upon the electrical principle
Like charges repel
Opposite charges attract
The electrode creates the chemical effects & is known as the active pole
The other electrode is known as the indirect or indifferent pole.
The tissues fluids of the human body have electrolytic properties. They contain ions and therefore allow the current to pass through the human body. Both positive and negative connections are required when performing the treatment.
You select the appropriate pole according to the effect you want.

9. Effects Created at the Poles
Acid reaction
Reduces redness of the skin
Astringent effect pores tighten
Firms tissues
Soothing effect on nerve endings
Alkaline reaction
Increases redness of the skin
Pores relax
Softens tissues
Stimulating effect on nerve endings
Effects at the anode + pole
Effects at the cathode - pole
Negative pole to begin treatment for 10 mins 1st treatment.
Positive for 2 mins to rebalance the skin.
Red pad on the problem area.
No more than 2 mA

10. Contra-indications Loss of skin sensation Broken skin
Excessive fillings
Metal plates or pins within the area
Pacemaker
IUD coil
Varicose veins
Pregnant client.
Clients should be advised not to receive UV or heat treatment directly after this treatment.
Recommended that the client undergoes treatment 2-3 times per week for a course of 10 sessions.
Internal metal may cause localised concentration of current causing internal burning.
Body galvanic should not be applied over the kidney, sciatic nerve or breast area.

11. Health & Safety Galvanic burns caused by current concentration
Tucks or folds in the covering
Unevenly moistened viscose covers
Inadequate electrode insulation
Skin test must be carried out
Remove all jewellery, any metal or water from the area.
Ensure the client does not touch the metal on the couch.
Clients must not lay on the electrodes this could also cause a galvanic burn.

12. Treatment for a galvanic burn
If a galvanic burn occurs, it needs to be treated in the same way as a chemical burn, flush with lots of cold water, cover with a sterile dry dressing, and recommend the client seek medical advice immediately. Application of lavender essential oil may assist the healing process.

13. Availability and use of homecare products
An anti-cellulite body product - which should be applied in gentle upward and circular strokes to the effected area 1-2 times a day.
Body brushing - using a dry body brush apply in upward strokes to the effected area for 5 minutes per day.
Herbal capsules - can be taken daily to help eliminate toxins and fluid from the body.
Soothing product - may be applied to soothe the erythema following the treatment application. Such as rose water or cool water.

14. Aftercare advice
Following a galvanic treatment, it is recommended that the client avoid any form of heat treatments, lotions/creams or UV for 6-8 hours. Additional heat to the area could make the erythema that occurs as a normal reaction to the treatment more intense.
Drink lots of water to flush out the toxins.
Advise about importance of a healthy balanced diet and the avoidance of processed foods.
Daily body care routine.
Advise when to return for treatment- if the client is taking a course of treatments they should receive treatment 2-3 times per week for 10 sessions.
Contra-action advice.

15. Practical Demonstration of Body Galvanic Treatment.
Take notes if required.
Following the demonstration, set up the working area and perform the treatment safely & effectively for the advised treatment time.

16. Today’s objectives
Review Galvanic & identify the equipment & products used.
Identify the effects of the treatment.
State the benefits, effects & indications of Body Galvanic.
Identify contra-indications & safety precautions of the treatment
State contra-actions, aftercare & treatment advice.
Set up the working area and perform the treatment safely & effectively for the advised treatment time.