Direct current causing a chemical reaction is called what?

Direct current that induces a chemical reaction is referred to as galvanic. This term is derived from the name of Luigi Galvani, an Italian scientist known for his work in bioelectricity. In a galvanic treatment, the application of direct current generates chemical changes at the electrodes, which can be utilized in various cosmetic and therapeutic applications, such as enhancing penetration of products into the skin or performing iontophoresis.

The specific effects produced by galvanic current are due to its continuous, unidirectional flow, which results in electrolytic reactions. This differs significantly from other currents such as faradic, which involve alternating current used for muscle stimulation, or microcurrent, which is a low-level electrical current that mimics the body’s natural ion channels but does not primarily involve chemical reactions. Infrared, on the other hand, pertains to a type of light energy that is used for heating purposes or promoting circulation but does not result in a chemical reaction. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for appreciating the applications and effects of different types of electrical currents in medical aesthetics.