1. Device Overview

The Phothera Aquex is an advanced tap water iontophoresis device used for the safe, effective treatment of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) of the hands, feet, and underarms. It is designed for ease of use, maximum efficiency, and safety, with programmable treatment profiles and multiple safety features:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

2. Indications & Mechanism of Action

• Indicated for the treatment of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) of the hands, feet, and underarms.
• Therapy is suitable for ages 4+, but children must be supervised by an adult. Ages 12+ may be unsupervised if approved by guardians and able to understand instructions:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
• Mechanism: Low electrical current passes through skin immersed in tap water, disrupting nerve signals that stimulate sweat glands. The effect is temporary and reversible; continued maintenance is required for long-term benefit:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

3. Safety & Contraindications

• Use only the official Aquex AC power adapter and original accessories:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
• Do not use if you have a pacemaker, ICD, are pregnant, or have metal implants in the treatment path (e.g., IUD in abdomen for hand/foot treatment):contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Contraindicated in: patients with epilepsy, suspected/known heart problems, piercings or metal in treatment area that cannot be removed, untreated wounds, skin infections, or large lesions in the treatment area.
• Remove all jewelry from the area to be treated before use.
• Never use near water sources except as instructed, and keep away from children when not in use.
• Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

4. Side Effects & Safety Considerations

• Mild tingling, burning, or temporary redness may occur:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
• Blisters or minor skin irritation at electrode contact are rare but possible.
• Superficially dry skin may occur—use moisturizer after each session.
• If pain, blistering, or unusual irritation occurs, stop therapy and consult your physician.
• See the manual for a full list of important safety considerations (e.g., room temperature, outlet requirements, cable care, and safe cleaning agents):contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

5. Components & Setup

• Control Unit: Main device with LCD screen and profile/treatment controls.
• AC Adapter: Wide-range adapter with plug options for international use.
• Treatment Tubs: The case opens to become two water trays for hand/foot therapy. Fill with hand-warm tap water.
• Electrodes & Covers: Place aluminum or stainless steel electrodes in trays; cover fully with provided towels (prevents burns and skin contact).
• Cables: Attach securely to back of control unit and electrodes.
• Optional: Axillary (armpit) applicators and electrodes for underarm therapy.
• Always use well-lit, stable surfaces away from bathrooms or humid rooms for setup:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

6. Operating Instructions

1. Connect the AC adapter to the device and wall outlet.
2. Insert cables into back of unit and electrodes.
3. For hand/foot therapy: Fill trays with enough hand-warm tap water to cover the treatment area.
4. Place one electrode in each tray, fully covered by a towel. Connect cables firmly.
5. Remove all jewelry from the area being treated.
6. Switch on device (main power switch).
7. Select or adjust treatment profile: Duration (1-60 min), Dose (6-60 volts), Current type (Direct, Pulsed, Variable Pulsed), and Pulse Width (PC 60%, VPC 70-90%, DC 100%).
8. For most adults: Start with 20V/90% pulse for hands, 30V/100% pulse for feet, 8V/60% for underarms; children start lower (see table in manual p.24):contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
9. Gently immerse hands/feet, or clamp axillary applicators in place.
10. Treatment starts automatically when circuit is closed. Progress bar will appear on display.
11. Interrupt by removing hands/feet; resume by re-immersing.
12. When finished, wait for the target flag on the display, then turn off device and disconnect electrodes/cables.

• Do not switch the device off while in contact with electrodes/water—may cause an unpleasant shock (not dangerous but avoidable).
• For armpit therapy, never exceed 15V.
• For best results, follow initial phase (daily or 3x/week for ~10 sessions), then maintenance phase (1-3x/week as needed).

7. Cleaning & Maintenance

• Unplug device before cleaning; use only mild soap and water for trays and electrodes. Do not use solvents or alcohol.
• Dry all parts thoroughly after each session. Air-dry towels and trays with case open.
• Descale electrodes with vinegar or citric acid if calcium deposits form.
• For multi-patient or clinical use: Disinfect trays, electrodes, and cables with surface disinfectant, replace towels and sponge applicators for each patient.
• Device is essentially maintenance-free, but must be cleaned regularly for longevity:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

8. Troubleshooting

• Device won’t power on? Check that AC adapter is properly connected and outlet is working.
• Error codes on display:
  • E0: Circuit not closed or improper start—remove and re-immerse hands/feet.
  • E1: Short circuit between electrodes—check setup and that towels/electrodes do not touch.
  • E2: Overtreatment protection—pause use for 2-3 weeks or until sweating returns, then retry.
• If device works on another person, OTP (overtreatment protection) may be active:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Low/no current? Try different water (tap, non-carbonated mineral), check for cable or electrode issues.
• Persistent issues: contact Phothera support. Only ship in the original case after cleaning and drying all parts.

9. Warranty & Support

• Warranty: 4 years from new, can be extended by manufacturer reconditioning (up to 10 cycles).
• Contact:
  • Phone: 1-216-831-0600
  • Email: service@phothera.com
  • Website: www.phothera.com

10. Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should I use Aquex? Daily or every other day for initial phase, then 1-3x/week for maintenance.
• Is it safe for children? Yes, ages 4+ under adult supervision; always start at lower settings:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Can I use it for armpits? Yes, with included axillary applicators—never exceed 15 volts for underarm skin.
• How long does a session last? Typically 10-15 minutes per session, as prescribed.
• What if I experience irritation or pain? Stop therapy and consult your doctor. Cover minor wounds with petroleum jelly before use.
• Can I use tap water? Yes, but if water is too soft, try non-carbonated mineral water for better conductivity:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
• How do I clean electrodes? Wipe dry after each use; descale with vinegar/citric acid as needed:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• What should I do if an error code appears? Refer to the troubleshooting section or manual for guidance.