Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What primary component of an electrotherapy system is responsible for providing direct current?

1. Galvanic Current

2. Alternating Current

3. High Frequency Current

4. Microcurrent

The correct answer is: Galvanic Current

The primary component of an electrotherapy system responsible for providing direct current is the galvanic current. This type of current flows in one direction and is characterized by a constant voltage and unidirectional flow of electrons. Galvanic current is commonly used in treatments for its ability to promote certain physiological reactions within the skin, such as increasing circulation, deep cleansing, and enhancing the absorption of products. Understanding the unique properties of galvanic current is essential for estheticians, as it offers benefits like iontophoresis, which helps in introducing active ingredients into the skin through the use of electric currents. Therefore, the utilization of galvanic current is vital in various facial treatments and skin rejuvenation practices, making it a fundamental knowledge area for anyone studying electrotherapy in esthetics. In contrast, alternating current reverses direction periodically, high-frequency current generates oscillating currents for different skin benefits, and microcurrent refers to low-level electrical currents used for stimulation and toning of facial muscles. Each of these currents serves specific purposes, but they do not provide direct current like the galvanic option does.