Galvanic Facial Template

A galvanic facial is a skincare treatment that uses a mild direct current to cleanse pores and push water-soluble serums deeper into the skin. The free download is a printable consent and health-screening form, and the guide below sets out the full protocol, from contraindications to the treatment record.

The treatment runs in two phases. First, desincrustation uses the negative pole to soften sebum in oily or congested skin. Then iontophoresis drives a serum in, with the pole matched to the product’s charge. Below you’ll find the settings for each phase, the screening questions to ask first, and the aftercare to give the patient.

Key takeaways

Galvanic facials run in two phases: desincrustation cleanses with the negative pole, and iontophoresis infuses water-soluble products with a polarity-matched pole.

Screen every patient for pacemakers, metal implants, broken skin, active infection and uncontrolled epilepsy, and defer elective treatment during pregnancy.

Oily or congested skin does well with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, while dehydrated and aging skin usually needs monthly maintenance.

Practice management software like Pabau stores intake and consent forms digitally, and Pabau Scribe, our AI scribe, drafts the treatment note into the patient record.

What is a galvanic facial?

A galvanic facial applies a mild direct current to the skin to move water-soluble active ingredients through its outer layer, the stratum corneum. Specifically, it pairs two phases, desincrustation and iontophoresis, and each one uses the opposite polarity for a different result.

Estheticians run it with a galvanic machine and two electrodes, a positive pole (anode) and a negative pole (cathode). So, by choosing the pole and a matching serum or gel, you can tailor the session to oily, acne-prone, dehydrated or aging skin.

Every session needs a signed consent, a contraindication screen and a treatment note. So that paperwork load is what medical spa software is built to carry. Many practices also standardize the first assessment with downloadable intake consultation templates.

How galvanic current works on the skin

Galvanic current relies on a simple rule: charged particles (ions) repel particles with the same charge and attract the opposite charge. In a galvanic facial, that movement therefore carries water-soluble actives further into the skin than applying them by hand.

The positive pole (anode): Produces an acidifying, astringent effect on the skin. In the iontophoresis phase, it drives positively charged (acidic) serums, such as vitamin C, glycolic acid or hydrating essences, into congested, oily or inflamed skin. Duration: usually 3-10 minutes depending on current intensity.

The negative pole (cathode): Produces an alkalizing, soothing effect. In the iontophoresis phase, it infuses negatively charged (alkaline) products, such as calming botanical serums or hydrating gels, into dehydrated or sensitive skin. It also runs the desincrustation phase, softening and emulsifying sebum so it’s easier to remove during extraction.

Current is measured in milliamps (mA). Most professional machines let you set it between 0.5 and 2.0 mA to match patient comfort and skin sensitivity. Higher current pushes product deeper, but it also raises the risk of irritation on sensitive or damaged skin.

Desincrustation vs iontophoresis: the two phases

Every galvanic facial follows the same two-phase structure, and each phase has its own clinical job.

Many practitioners run desincrustation only on oily or congested patients, weekly or bi-weekly. Other skin types, by contrast, go straight to iontophoresis. Combining both phases in one session takes about 20-25 minutes.

What the treatment does for the skin

The benefits span several skin concerns, which makes the treatment a flexible addition to a med spa or skin care menu.

• Enhanced product absorption: Iontophoresis drives active ingredients 5-10 times deeper than topical application alone, getting more out of serums, essences and specialized treatment gels.
• Deep skin hydration: The current increases cellular permeability, so hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, botanical extracts) penetrate fully and boost skin moisture.
• Deep cleansing and pore refinement: Desincrustation softens sebum and comedones, improving skin texture and reducing the look of enlarged pores over several treatments.
• Reduced oiliness and congestion: Regular sessions with alkaline serums help normalize sebaceous gland activity, which especially helps acne-prone and combination skin.
• Anti-aging support: Better ingredient penetration amplifies collagen-boosting serums, peptides and antioxidants, supporting skin firmness and elasticity over time.
• Improved skin radiance: The current’s stimulation and the hydration delivered by iontophoresis leave skin plumper, smoother and more luminous straight after treatment.

Step-by-step treatment protocol

Follow these 12 steps in order so every galvanic facial runs the same way and leaves a complete treatment record. Only two of the steps put current on the skin, and the settings card below shows the pole, current and time for each.

1. Patient intake and contraindication screening: Review the patient’s completed consent and health-screening form from the downloadable template. Confirm there are no absolute contraindications: pacemakers, metal implants in the treatment area, active skin infections, broken skin or uncontrolled epilepsy. Ask about pregnancy, document every answer, and get written informed consent before treatment.
2. Skin analysis and treatment planning: Assess skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive), identify key concerns (acne, dehydration, aging, pigmentation), and choose the phase sequence. Oily or congested skin starts with desincrustation. Every skin type then moves to iontophoresis with a targeted active.
3. Cleanser application: Apply a gentle cleanser or makeup remover and massage for 1-2 minutes to remove makeup, sunscreen and surface impurities. Rinse with cool water and pat dry.
4. Exfoliation (optional): A light manual or chemical exfoliation (gentle scrub, enzyme powder or light peel) before the current can improve results. Skip it on sensitive or damaged skin.
5. Desincrustation phase (oily or congested skin only): Apply an alkaline gel or saline solution to the face. Select the negative pole electrode and set current to 0.5-1.5 mA based on patient comfort. Move the electrode in upward strokes for 5-10 minutes, focusing on the T-zone and congested areas. Stop right away if the patient reports discomfort or tingling.
6. Gentle extraction (if suitable): After desincrustation, perform gentle manual or suction extraction on comedones if the patient consents. Over-aggressive extraction irritates the skin, so work cautiously.
7. Second rinse: Rinse the face thoroughly with cool water and pat dry, removing any leftover desincrustation gel.
8. Iontophoresis phase: Apply the selected serum, essence or hydrating gel, matched to the pole you’ll use. Acidic actives such as vitamin C or glycolic acid take the positive pole, while calming or hydrating serums take the negative pole. Set current to 0.5-1.5 mA and move the electrode upward across the whole face for 3-10 minutes. Pause over areas of concern (crepey skin, acne, dehydration) as needed.
9. Final rinse and skin analysis: Remove the electrode, rinse the face with cool water and pat dry. Assess skin texture, hydration and any immediate reactions.
10. Post-treatment skincare: Apply a hydrating toner or essence, then a lightweight serum matched to the patient’s skin type. Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) for daytime appointments. Avoid occlusive moisturizers straight after treatment to prevent congestion.
11. Patient education and homecare: Advise the patient to avoid sun exposure, hot water and actives (retinoids, vitamin C, acids) for 24 hours. Recommend a homecare routine with the same active ingredients used in the session to extend results. Book the next appointment by skin type and goal: weekly to bi-weekly for congestion, monthly for maintenance.
12. Log the treatment record: Record the date, time, skin type, phases, products and current used, reactions or patient feedback, and homecare advice. Add before-and-after photo documentation to the patient record if the patient consents.

Pre-treatment consultation checklist

Use this screening framework during the intake consultation to catch contraindications, assess skin type and tailor the treatment plan.

• Absolute contraindications (do not treat): A pacemaker or other implanted electrical device, or metal braces, wires or implants in the treatment area. Also decline active skin infection or herpes lesions, unhealed or sunburned skin, uncontrolled epilepsy, and active chemotherapy or immunosuppression.
• Relative contraindications (use caution or defer): Pregnancy (defer elective treatment) and sensitive or reactive skin. Wait 7-14 days after chemical peels, laser treatment or microdermabrasion, and at least 48 hours after anti-wrinkle injections or fillers. Active acne with pustules calls for lower current and iontophoresis only.
• Skin type assessment: Ask about baseline hydration, oiliness, sensitivity and the current skincare routine. Observe skin texture, pore size and any visible congestion, redness or dehydration.
• Treatment goals: Primary concern (acne, aging, dehydration, dull skin), desired outcome (clearer skin, firmer appearance, better hydration, radiance) and frequency preference (maintenance or corrective).
• Product allergies or sensitivities: Ask about reactions to vitamin C, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, botanical extracts or fragrance. Note them in the patient record to guide serum selection.
• Informed consent signature: Have the patient sign a consent form that covers contraindications, expected outcomes, possible side effects (mild redness, sensitivity) and aftercare instructions.

Contraindications and safety precautions

Galvanic facials are generally safe with proper screening and technique. So the absolute and relative contraindications below are what prevent adverse events.

• Pacemakers and electrical implants (absolute): Galvanic current can interfere with pacemaker function, a serious cardiac risk. Screen for this first and note the answer in writing.
• Metal implants in the treatment area (absolute): Braces, wires or titanium implants can conduct current unpredictably, causing burns or discomfort. Treat around these areas, or defer if the metal is widespread.
• Broken, sunburned or infected skin (absolute): Current through a damaged skin barrier raises irritation, infection risk and pain. Wait 7-14 days for full healing.
• Pregnancy (relative, defer elective treatment): No fetal harm is documented, but many practitioners defer cosmetic electrotherapy as a precaution. Discuss it with the patient and record the decision.
• Uncontrolled epilepsy (absolute): Electrical stimulation can trigger seizures. Screen carefully, and defer if seizures are uncontrolled or the threshold is unclear.
• Acute skin inflammation or active acne pustules (relative): Lower the current, use iontophoresis only (skip desincrustation), or defer until the inflammation settles.
• Recent invasive treatments (relative, wait 7-14 days): Chemical peels, laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion and microneedling disrupt the skin barrier. Allow full healing first.
• Recent anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers (relative, wait 48 hours): Let the product settle first to avoid displacement or bruising.
• Undiagnosed metal sensitization or contact dermatitis (relative): Some patients react to metal jewelry or have unexplained dermatitis. Patch test the gel and electrode on a small area first.

Record the screening in formal, informed consent paperwork to protect the patient and the practitioner. Then use a standardized intake form, like the downloadable template above, and file it with the patient’s permanent treatment record.

Choosing a machine and conductive products

Professional galvanic machines differ in current output, electrode types and safety features, so check these specifications before you buy.

Machine selection criteria: Look for FDA-cleared devices (Class II medical device status in the US) or CE marking in the EU. The machine should allow adjustable current (usually 0.5-2.0 mA), label electrode polarity clearly and shut off automatically after a set time. Some machines, for example, run desincrustation and iontophoresis in sequence with built-in timers, which reduces practitioner error.

Product compatibility: Use only water-soluble products formulated for galvanic treatments. They’re usually labeled as ionizable or conductive. Oil-based products and thick creams won’t conduct current well and can block ion penetration. Then match each product to the patient’s skin type and the phase’s polarity. Common categories include:

• Alkaline desincrustation solutions (sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide bases)
• Vitamin C serums (acidic, positive-pole products)
• Hydrating essences
• Botanical calming gels
• Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) toners

Electrode quality: Professional machines usually use stainless steel, brass or carbon electrodes. Product residue and corrosion impair conductivity, so clean and sterilize electrodes between patients according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Offering galvanic facials also means tracking machine maintenance, product inventory and each patient’s treatment history. As a result, logging the products used in each session lets you reorder matching homecare items and make personalized recommendations.

Who is a good candidate for a galvanic facial?

Most skin types can benefit when the phase, product and current are adjusted to the patient.

Oily and congested skin: These patients are prime candidates. Desincrustation with an alkaline solution deep-cleans pores, clears sebum buildup and reduces acne-causing bacteria. Repeat weekly or bi-weekly, then follow with a clarifying or antibacterial serum by iontophoresis to maintain results.

Dehydrated and aging skin: This skin responds well to targeted hydration. As a result, iontophoresis of hyaluronic acid, peptides or botanical hydrating gels leaves skin plumper, more elastic and visibly firmer. Book sessions monthly or every two weeks.

Sensitive or reactive skin: Proceed with caution. So use lower current (0.5-1.0 mA), shorter phases (3-5 minutes each) and gentle, fragrance-free products. Skip desincrustation and use soothing iontophoresis only. These patients usually do better on monthly maintenance than on weekly sessions.

Combination skin: Tailor the protocol by zone. An oily T-zone may benefit from desincrustation, while dehydrated cheeks and the sensitive eye area get gentle hydrating iontophoresis. Use separate electrodes or shorter contact time on sensitive areas.

Post-procedure or damaged skin: Wait 7-14 days after chemical peels, laser or microdermabrasion. Once the skin has healed, galvanic facials can support barrier repair and boost post-procedure serums, which makes them useful in aftercare protocols.

Four intake questions triage most candidates:

• Is your skin sunburned or injured?
• Do you have a pacemaker or metal implants?
• Are you pregnant?
• What is your main skin concern?

Recording the answers in skin clinic software keeps everyone on your team working from the same patient profile.

How to fill in and store the template

The download is a two-part form: a consent section the patient reads and signs, and a health-screening form they complete before the first session.

What’s in the form: A treatment overview, potential benefits, possible side effects and a contraindication list, followed by the consent declaration and clinical photo consent. It asks 11 yes/no questions, covering pregnancy, skin conditions, allergies, active infection and prescription medication. Five free-text prompts then capture medical history, treatment goals and past reactions.

What it leaves to your notes: The form has no treatment-settings section. So record the phases, products, current and duration from the protocol above in your treatment notes for each session.

Customization: The PDF prints as-is. To add your practice’s logo or your own cancellation and consent wording, rebuild it as a digital form in your practice software.

Ongoing tracking: Keep the signed form with the treatment notes from every session. Together they track product allergies, the preferred polarity and results over time, so you can show the patient their progress at recall appointments.

How Pabau handles intake, consent and treatment notes

Many practices run a form like this on paper today. Usually, the patient fills it in at reception, someone scans it, and the practitioner types up the treatment note after the session.

Practice management software like Pabau moves each of those steps into the patient record. Patients complete the health-screening form and digital consent forms on their phone before the appointment. As a result, their contraindication answers are waiting in the record when the session starts.

After the session, Pabau Scribe, our AI scribe, turns your spoken summary of phases, products, current and skin response into a treatment note. Before-and-after photos attach to the same record, so the next practitioner can see what was used last time.

Keep galvanic facial records in one place

Pabau’s digital forms, patient records and Pabau Scribe capture intake, consent and treatment notes for every galvanic facial. Your team stops retyping notes after each session.

Book a demo

Conclusion

A galvanic facial is only as safe as the screening before it. Get the contraindication questions answered and signed before any current touches the skin, and match the pole to the product every time.

Standardizing on one form and one protocol pays off at the second visit. With the last session’s products, current and skin response on file, you adjust the next treatment instead of working from memory.

Paper works as long as someone files every form, every time. Book a demo to see how Pabau keeps galvanic facial intake, consent and treatment notes in one patient record.

Continue your research

Need a fuller facial assessment before the first session? Free facial consultation form template covers skin history, concerns and goals in one intake.

Want a structured way to record skin type? Skin analysis form template for estheticians gives you a consistent baseline to compare galvanic results against.

Looking for a session-by-session record format? HydraFacial treatment record template shows how to log settings, products and skin response for a device facial.

Want to track results across a treatment series? Med spa before and after photos explains how to capture and store visual outcomes consistently.

Frequently asked questions