When to Use Beauty Device？

Choosing from the selection of high-tech skin-care devices on the market, from LED masks to ultrasonic spatulas, can be downright overwhelming. But if you've spent any time at all researching what's out there, chances are you've heard of microcurrent devices.

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These tools are designed to stimulate your facial muscles to create a more lifted look, and are often likened to a "workout for your face." Taylor Worden, a celebrity esthetician and founder of Taylor Worden Skin, goes so far as to refer to the devices as "non-surgical facelift machines." You may already be familiar with popular at-home microcurrent tools, such as NuFace devices and the Foreo Bear.

The catch: At-home microcurrent devices cost a pretty penny, ringing in at anywhere from $150 to nearly $400. Before you drop a lot of cash on one of the beauty tools, learn everything you need to know about microcurrent devices, including how they work, their benefits, and how to use them for optimal results.

What is a microcurrent device?

"Microcurrent devices use low-voltage electricity to give your facial muscles a workout," says Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist. "They deliver little shocks to the muscle, [which] helps tone the muscle and boosts cellular activity."

Think of using these devices as lifting weights, but for your face, says Worden. The best at-home microcurrent devices are a DIY alternative to professional microcurrent facials, which are typically carried out with machines that utilize higher-voltage electricity for more pronounced results. "An in-office treatment is like a two-hour session with a personal trainer, at-home devices are like walking for ten minutes on a treadmill," says Dr. Shirazi. You can achieve results &#; albeit subtler changes &#; by using the at-home devices with consistent use, says Rachel Nazarian M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group.

What are the benefits of microcurrent devices?

Microcurrent therapy helps strengthen facial muscles by increasing the production of ATP, explains Dr. Shirazi. If it's been a minute since your last science class, ATP is your cells' energy source, which your body can use to carry out various functions including muscle contraction. The gentle electricity emitted from microcurrent devices triggers an increase in ATP production, which allows for muscle contraction that strengthens facial muscles over time, according to a study in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.

As you get older, the muscles in your face begin to atrophy causing the appearance of loose skin, Emma Goodman, an esthetician, previously told Shape. The natural decrease in muscle strength with age can contribute to signs of aging in various regions of your face, such as your chin and eyelid areas. The hope with microcurrent therapy is to strengthen those muscles, encouraging a more lifted appearance, explained Goodman.

Additionally, microcurrent may help stimulate collagen production, since ATP is also used for collagen production. Collagen is a protein in your skin that helps give it structure, contributing to a plump, firm complexion.

Who should avoid microcurrent devices?

Few clinical trials have examined the side effects of microcurrent therapy, but dermatologists generally consider it safe for those who don't have any contraindications (reasons that someone should avoid a given treatment), says Dr. Nazarian.

Contraindications for microcurrent therapy include having a cardiac pacemaker or metal implants, according to Hadley King M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. The currents that a microcurrent device emits may interfere with functionality of pacemakers or cause heating of the metal implants. "It's best to talk to your doctor if you have epilepsy, heart conditions, a pacemaker, metal plates or pins, or if you are pregnant as there may be risks and contraindications for microcurrent treatment," adds Dr. Shirazi. You also shouldn't use microcurrent therapy if you've just been injected with any neurotoxins, such as Botox, which have the opposite effect of relaxing your muscles, says Worden. "You should wait at least two weeks to do microcurrent if you have had Botox," she says.

How should you use a microcurrent device?

If you decide to invest in a microcurrent device, it's important to follow its accompanying directions closely, says Worden. As a rule of thumb, though, "you want to use it three times a week for five to ten minutes," she says. Some brands, such as NuFace, advise using a device for five days a week for the first 60 days, then dropping down to three days a week. Dermatologists stress that consistency is important if you want to achieve results from these at-home devices.

For most devices, you'll need some type of conductive gel or serum to help the current reach the muscles and help the device glide on your skin without major stinging. Typically, brands that sell microcurrent devices also offer a suitable gel. If you're looking for a more inexpensive option, though, you can try aloe vera gel mixed with salt. Aloe vera is 99 percent water and when water is paired with salt it creates a conductive path for electricity.

Make sure you're starting with a clean face before applying any gel and using the device to avoid spreading bacteria. "Place the device on the skin, making sure to apply a slight pressure to assure full contact between the electrodes and the skin," says Dr. King. "Move the device using a very slow linear motion along the jawline." You'll want to use similar motions when using a microcurrent device on other areas of your face, such as your cheekbones and forehead.(Devices typically come with detailed instructions on how to use them.) Once you're done with the treatment, remove the gel &#; unless it's a designated leave-on treatment &#; and you can follow up with your skin-care routine.

You should watch out for any irritation from the gliding or rubbing of the device, which can worsen some skin conditions, such as acne, if you aren't using the tool correctly, says Dr. Shirazi. Brief tingling and facial twitching can also occur as a result of the voltage, says Worden.

Plan on rinsing your microcurrent device after each use and giving it a more thorough clean at least once a week. "Dirt, oils, bacteria, and yeast can all be found on dirty massagers, and therefore lead to breakouts," says Dr. King. Place a few drops of antibacterial dish soap to scrub the device or a cleansing wipe to ensure you're not exacerbating skin concerns, such as acne.

"Ideally, [a microcurrent device] would be used as a part of an anti-aging regimen, [but] more for preservation than actual repair, given its subtle results and need for consistent use," explains Dr. Nazarian. In other words, it's important to manage your expectations when it comes to using your at-home microcurrent device. Microcurrent therapy is more for prevention and modest rejuvenation as opposed to actually reversing existing anti-aging concerns, says Dr. King.

Ultimately, the devices have some enticing potential benefits, provided you commit to using them regularly. If your skin-care goals include a more lifted and sculpted face, then you might find that a microcurrent device is a worthy addition to your routine.

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Beauty insiders and celebrities have long been touting the benefits of microcurrent facials. You may have heard stories about how the treatment produces impressive (and nearly instantaneous) results when it comes to fighting signs of aging.

And while normally, you would have to take a trip to the spa to see if the rumors are true, a number of at-home microcurrent devices have been popping up across the beauty space, allowing people to try it right from the comfort of their own homes.

The thing is, these devices can be pretty pricey. So to see if they're actually worth the purchase, we consulted two top aestheticians to learn more about how the treatment works and which at-home options will actually provide results.

How does microcurrent work? | Do they really work? | How to use it | Best microcurrent devices | Meet the experts

How does microcurrent work?

Microcurrent devices use low-level electrical impulses to stimulate the muscles in the face, says Lara Kaiser, an aesthetician in New York City.

The treatment also stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), Los Angeles-based celebrity aesthetician Gina Marí adds. Essentially, you're stimulating "food" for the cells to allow them to work more efficiently.

"What we always want to do when we're working with any type of technology when it comes to skin care treatment, is that we want to work on the cellular level," Marí says. "We want to stimulate the cells, we want to feed the cells and get some activity happening there."

Do at-home microcurrent devices really work?

Typically, the microcurrent machines that are used during professional treatments are larger and have a higher current than the at-home devices, Marí says. But while they're less powerful, that doesn't mean you won't still see the benefits.

Like traditional exercise, even if you're seeing a trainer once a week, you're still going to have to do some workouts on your own to see results. The idea is the same here, Kaiser says. She recommends at-home devices to her clients as a way to maintain results between appointments. They're also good to have on-hand in moments when you feel like your complexion needs a little boost before a big event or Zoom call.

How to use an at-home microcurrent device

As much as we'd like a quick one-and-done solution for all of our skin concerns, you shouldn't expect that from this (or any skin care treatment, really). The results are temporary, Marí says. Typically, when starting out, you can expect the results to last a couple of days. "You will see longer-lasting results with more consistency," she adds. And the more comfortable and confident you get with using the tool, the better the results will be.

According to Kaiser, the device can be used every other day. Once again, just like a workout, "you want to give your muscles a day off here and there," she says. The amount of time that you use it for depends on the device, but typically, it's around five to 10 minutes &#; many have a set timer to let you know when it's done. Most devices also come with conductive gel that you apply before the treatment. Though some TikTokers have said they use different products like aloe vera or water, Marí advises against it.

"You're un-intensifying your treatment by not using the proper products to go hand in hand with that," she says.

Best microcurrent devices

Microcurrent on a budget: Skin Gym Microcurrent Wand

Settings: 5 | Powered by: Battery operated (not included) | Serum included? No

This new microcurrent device from Skin Gym features two sphered prongs that can be used along the jawline, laugh lines, brow line and forehead, says the brand. Reviewers say they've seen an improvement in firmness and fine lines in just a few uses.

For smaller coverage: NuFACE Fix Line Smoothing Device

Settings: N/A | Powered by: Rechargeable battery | Serum included? Yes

If you're unsure if you're ready to commit to buying one of the bigger devices, a targeted microcurrent treatment tool is one way to test the waters. Say you have deep 11 lines between your eyes, crow's feet or wrinkles around your mouth that were causing concern, NuFACE's smaller device could be a good place to start to address those, Kaiser says. Though, she notes that once you start seeing results in one area, you're likely going to want to tackle other spots on your face, like your jawline or forehead &#; and that will be harder to do with a smaller tool.

Viral on social media: Solawave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand

4-in-1 Skincare Wand

What we like

• Very simple to use
• Also helps soften skin
• Built-in red light

Something to note

• Has taken customers about one month to start working

Settings: 1 | Powered by: Rechargeable battery | Serum included? No

In addition to red light therapy and &#;therapeutic warmth&#; technology, this skin care wand also uses the power of low-level microcurrent therapy to tone facial muscles and smooth wrinkles, according to the brand. Associate editor Shannon Garlin says she&#;s been using this device for over a year and loves the relaxing effects. &#;The warming effect and gentle vibrations feel like I&#;m getting a nightly facial massage,&#; she says.

Better yet, it&#;s said to help fight signs of aging and keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.

Settings: 3 | Powered by: Rechargeable battery | Serum included? Yes

The mini version of NuFACE's popular tool is a favorite among multiple Shop TODAY staffers, including myself. I find that when I remember to use it regularly &#; keeping it by my bed so I can do it at night while I watch TV or read is helpful &#; I notice a difference in the overall brightness in my face and my skin feels tighter, both instantly and over time.

Shop TODAY editorial director Adrianna Brach says that she's been using the gadget about once a week for the last five years and adds that it's "one of the better beauty tool investments I've made."

"It's so easy to use and I love that I could use it while watching TV on my couch and then see results so quickly," she says.

Editor loved: NuFACE Trinity Facial Toning Device

Settings: 5 | Powered by: Rechargeable battery | Serum included? Yes

NuFACE&#;s microcurrent device is arguably the most buzzed-about and most-recommended product in the category &#; and it was a top pick from both of the experts that we spoke to. To use it, NuFACE suggests applying the included NuFACE Gel Leave-On Primer and then gliding or holding the device over the natural contours of the face &#;for an instant, visible lift.&#;

Shop TODAY editor Julie Ricevuto says that she loves her NuFACE Trinity device. &#;I always see a difference when I&#;m dedicated to using it,&#; she says. &#;Plus, it&#;s a relaxing way to end your day with a mini spa-like moment while watching TV before bed. It doesn&#;t feel like a chore!&#;

NuFACE&#;s range of microcurrent devices has also garnered a fan base on TikTok, with videos featuring the products racking up more than 391 million collective views.

Multiple LED light settings: TheraFace Pro Microcurrent Facial Device 

Settings: 3 (+3 LED light settings) | Powered by: Rechargeable battery | Serum included? No

Much like Therabody's beloved massage guns, the Therabody comes with multiple device heads that you can swap out to target different areas of your face and try different treatments, including LED light therapy, percussive massage and microcurrent.

"I have been using the Theraface consistently for many months now and really love the device for its versatility," shares social editorial assistant Annie Shigo. "There is red light, blue light, microcurrents and even shaping tools included. I notice a huge difference using it after a shower, and love that the red light therapy tool can be used anywhere unlike many face masks."

Recommended by a pro: ZIIP Beauty GX 2 piece

Settings: 1+ (more with the ZIIP application) | Powered by: Rechargeable battery | Serum included? Yes

Created by aesthetician Melanie Simon, ZIIP Beauty&#;s microcurrent device also came recommended by both experts. &#;The cool thing about the ZIIP Beauty is that it comes with an accompanying app where she actually talks you through each treatment setting,&#; Marí says. There are how-to videos for multiple types of facials and targeted treatments.

Worth the cost: The Recovery Lab PureLift Face Non-Invasive Facelift

PureLift Face Non-Invasive Facelift

What we like

• Three color selections
• Some saw results in less than one week
• Expert-recommended product 

Something to note

• Pricey product 

Settings: 3 | Powered by: Rechargeable battery | Serum included? No

While the PureLift Face is a pricier option, Kaiser calls it her "favorite," saying that she loves the results. It features Triple Wave Patented EMS Technology, using varying frequencies, which according to the brand, can target different layers of the skin and muscle. Just apply the conductive serum gel and go.

Frequently Asked Questions

While it may sound uncomfortable, the process should be pain-free. Because you're dealing with electrical currents, people who are pregnant, have epilepsy, seizures, or any electronic-implanted devices like pacemakers or cochlear implants or metal braces should steer clear of the treatment, Marí says.

Microcurrent facials can help to lift and tighten the muscles in the area and stimulate collagen and elastin , helping your skin look smoother, brighter and more rejuvenated. Kaiser likened it to "a Pilates class for your face.&#; "You'll get a nice lift," Marí says. "It's great for women like my age, where you're starting to maybe get some jowling activity on the lower face. It's great for the neck, great for around the eye area." It's also a good anti-aging treatment for people who might be reluctant to try more invasive options, like Botox or fillers. But it's not just for aging concerns, Kaiser adds that she also uses it on patients who are struggling with acne. "That cellular energy helps accelerate healing."

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Meet our experts

• Lara Kaiser is a facialist, brow specialist and beauty expert at Carrie Lindsey Beauty in New York City.
• Gina Marí is a celebrity aesthetician and skin care expert based in Los Angeles.