Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What type of current is typically used in electrotherapy treatments?

1. AC

2. DC

3. Interrupted

4. Static

The correct answer is: DC

The correct answer is direct current (DC), which is used in many electrotherapy treatments because it provides a constant flow of electrical charge in one direction. DC is particularly effective for specific treatments such as iontophoresis, where it helps to deliver medications through the skin. By using a steady and continuous electrical flow, DC can achieve therapeutic effects that are beneficial in esthetic applications, including stimulating tissues, enhancing product absorption, and reducing inflammation. In contrast, alternating current (AC), while used in certain therapies and for various devices, typically cycles back and forth and may not provide the same targeted effects as DC when it comes to iontophoresis or specific treatment objectives. Interrupted current (which may involve pulsing) and static electricity also serve different roles in treatments and do not offer the same consistency and targeted benefits that DC does in electrotherapy settings. Understanding these distinct applications underscores why direct current is preferred for electrotherapy treatments in esthetics.