Best Microcurrent Facial Devices for Home Use

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Microcurrent facial devices may provide the perfect alternative to Botox and expensive spa facials. These handheld machines claim to lift and firm the skin around your face and neck in just minutes a day.
While microcurrent technology was developed in the 1980s, it’s just now becoming a beauty trend. Dozens of manufacturers have rushed to meet the demand for at-home microcurrent facial machines.
So, which microcurrent device is the best?
The following guide explores the use of microcurrent technology, its benefits, and the best products for at-home microcurrent facials.
Microcurrent machines send low levels of electrical current through the body. The electrical current stimulates facial muscles, which helps tone and lift the face.

Microcurrent facial devices come in a wide range of sizes and styles. Some devices also include multiple intensity settings or operating modes. However, the main function of the device is to stimulate the muscles in your face.

The microcurrent facial machines are handheld devices with two metal contacts or spheres. The metal contacts touch your skin, which completes the circuit and allows current to flow through your muscles. The electrical current stimulates the muscles just below the surface of the skin.

What Are the Benefits of Microcurrent Facial Devices?

A microcurrent facial machine may help tone the muscles in your face. Toning facial muscles helps lift the skin to combat the signs of aging. The electrical current helps tighten and smooth the connective tissues and muscles in the face. It may take years off your appearance.
Along with helping to tighten and tone facial muscles, a microcurrent facial machine may help with:
  • Blood circulation.
  • Collagen and elastin production.
  • Slow the signs of aging.
  • Improves pigmentation and sun damage.
  • Instant results.
  • Penetration of skincare products.
Microcurrent technology can increase elastin production by 45% and the thickness of collagen by 10%. It also increases blood circulation, which promotes healthier cellular activity. These benefits increase the ability of the machine to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Using a microcurrent facial machine may slow the effects of aging by improving the health of your skin and underlying muscle. The increased blood circulation, collagen, and elastin help your skin maintain its elasticity. With healthier skin and facial muscles, you should also find it easier to apply skincare products, such as exfoliators and moisturizers.

Best Microcurrent Facial Devices to Use in 2022

NuFACE Advanced Facial Toning Kit

NuFACE Advanced Facial Toning Kit

Best Microcurrent Device for Instant Results (Best Overall)

The NuFace Advanced Facial Toning Kit stands out for being the only FDA-approved at-home microcurrent device, and for its ability to deliver fast results. Most people notice positive results after several sessions. However, you need to keep using the device five times per week for the first 60 days to get full results.

The device is a little bigger compared to some options but has an ergonomic design. The large metal contact spheres also make it easier to maintain a circuit with your skin.

Pros

  • The only FDA-approved microcurrent device for at home use.
  • Comes with conductive gel.
  • Includes a comfortable, ergonomic design.
  • Has easy-to-use controls with multiple intensity settings.
  • Comes with interchangeable attachments.
  • 1-year warranty.

Cons

  • The NuFace primer gel is relatively expensive.

FOREO BEAR Microcurrent Facial Toning Device

FOREO BEAR Microcurrent Facial Toning Device

Best Compact Microcurrent Device

The FOREO BEAR is more compact compared to the NuFace device. It easily fits in the palm of your hand and includes two large spheres for completing the circuit. Along with microcurrent technology, the machine has ultrasonic vibrations to produce faster results.

The device comes with the FOREO serum, which may not offer the best conductivity. To achieve the best results, you may need to purchase a separate conductive gel.

Pros

  • Is one of the most compact microcurrent machines.
  • Produces ultrasonic vibrations.
  • Includes five intensity settings.
  • Offers a compatible mobile app.
  • User-friendly.

Cons

  • Does not include a suitable conductive gel.

NuFACE FIX Line Smoothing Device

NuFACE FIX Line Smoothing Device

Best Microcurrent Device for Small Areas

The NuFace FIX line smoothing device is not a full-sized microcurrent machine. The small machine is intended as a quick-fix solution for targeting fine lines and wrinkles. You get a handheld machine, charging cable, and conductive gel.

It includes smaller spheres, which prevents you from targeting a larger area. However, the smaller design is great for travel. This is one of the most efficient options for those that just want to target a few problem areas.

Pros

  • Comes with conductive gel.
  • Is best suited for targeting small problem areas.
  • Is one of the more affordable options.
  • Travel-friendly.

Cons

  • Not suited for targeting the entire face and neck.

ZIIP Beauty Microcurrent

ZIIP Beauty Microcurrent

Best Microcurrent Device with Different Types of Waves

ZIIP Beauty Microcurrent Device uses microcurrent and nano-current technologies to deliver effective results. Nano-current has a much smaller electrical wavelength than microcurrent, which allows it to easily reach deep into the layers of the skin, offering long-lasting results. Using the ZIIP mobile app, you gain a variety of additional settings for personalized treatment.

Along with tightening and toning facial muscles, the device may help give your skin a natural glow. It is suitable for all skin types and comes with conductive gel. However, it is also a costly device.

Pros

  • Comes with a charger and travel bag.
  • Syncs with the ZIIP mobile app for additional settings.
  • Comes with conductive gel.
  • Is one of the most compact microcurrent machines

Cons

  • The most expensive recommendation.

FOREO BEAR mini Microcurrent Facial Toning Device

FOREO BEAR mini Microcurrent Facial Toning Device

Best Microcurrent Device for Beginners

The FOREO BEAR mini microcurrent device is a smaller version of the FOREO BEAR device. It provides many of the same features, including access to a mobile app for custom treatments. It also includes multiple intensity settings.

As with the full-sized FOREO BEAR device, the mini version comes with a FOREO serum. The serum does not provide the best connection with the skin for achieving an electrical current. You may need to use a different gel. However, this device is still affordable and convenient to use.

Pros

  • Is compact and easy to hold.
  • Is perfect for travel.
  • Includes three intensity settings.
  • Delivers ultrasonic vibrations.
  • Great for beginners.

Cons

  • May need to use different conductive gel.

Vanity Planet Essia Ultrasonic Wand

Vanity Planet Essia Ultrasonic Wand

Best Microcurrent Device with Cleansing Mode (Ultrasonic Spatula)

The Vanity Planet Essia Ultrasonic Lifting and Exfoliating Wand is a unique device that focuses on both high-frequency oscillation technology and microcurrent technology to offer deep cleansing and firming facials. However, it has a smaller surface area compared to most of the other devices.

You can only target small areas at a time. Yet, this ultrasonic skin scrubber is still a great choice for dealing with the early signs of fine lines and wrinkles. It includes three operating modes: exfoliate, moisturize, and lift.

Pros

  • Has compact design with a charging base.
  • Includes ultrasonic vibrations for faster results.
  • Provides three different operating modes.
  • Easy to use.

Cons

  • Only suitable for targeting small areas at a time.

Yeamon 4D Microcurrent Face Massager

Yeamon 4D Microcurrent Face Massager

Best Microcurrent Device with 4D Massage Rollers

The Yeamon 4D machine includes multiple functions. It delivers a microcurrent and vibrates the skin. You can choose from five vibration modes and speeds to create a custom at-home treatment. The machine is larger compared to other options but has a narrow handle that is easy to grip.

Several customers have mentioned that the instructions are not helpful. The controls and settings can also be a little confusing. However, after playing around with the device for a few minutes, you should have no problem figuring it out.

Pros

  • Includes a digital display.
  • Provides enhanced benefits in vibration mode.
  • Includes a blue light therapy mode.
  • Comes with a travel bag.
  • Lightweight.

Cons

  • Instructions are not quite clear.
  • Does not come with conductive gel.

How to Choose the Best Microcurrent Facial Devices

How to Choose the Best Microcurrent Machine

Any of the recommendations listed above should offer positive results with multiple sessions. However, everyone has different needs. Some of the features to consider when choosing a microcurrent machine include:

Size and grip:

Look for microcurrent machines that can fit in your hand. If you have smaller hands, you may want to avoid some of the larger machines, as they may become uncomfortable to hold for an entire session.

Intensity settings:

Microcurrent machines also have different intensity settings, which makes it easier to find the setting that works best for you. Several options include ultrasonic oscillation. The ultrasonic vibrations enhance the benefits of microcurrent technology by providing more stimulation.

Portability and accessories:

If you plan on using the device on vacation, look for portable options. You can find machines that are compact and easy to pack. Some microcurrent machines come with extra accessories, such as moisturizers and conductive gel. The accessories may save you from needing to buy extra items.

Cost and warranty:

The final considerations include the cost and warranty. If you have a limited budget, you may not be able to afford the high-end options. However, if you buy an expensive machine, make sure that it comes with a warranty in case you get a defective device.

How to Use a Microcurrent Device at Home

Each brand has slightly different instructions for using microcurrent facial machines. However, the process typically involves the following steps:

  • Wash your face
  • Apply conductive gel
  • Select the appropriate setting
  • Gently glide the device over your face
  • Wash off the gel
  • Apply a moisturizer

Procedure:

You should start your at-home treatment by washing your face. Washing your face eliminates grease and oil that may limit the conductivity of the machine and gel. Apply the gel to small areas, starting with your jawline. You can add more gel as needed as you move the machine around your face.

Most machines include multiple intensity settings. If you are using the machine for the first time, start with the lowest intensity. After several sessions, try increasing the intensity. If you experience any additional discomfort, switch back to a lower intensity.

Place the machine directly against your gel-covered skin. Gently glide the device around the contours of your jawline. Move at a slow pace and repeat the movement several times. After gently moving the machine across your jawline several times, move on to your brow, cheeks, neck, and other areas of the face. You can even use it on your arms and legs.

Continue gliding the machine across your face for 5 to 15 minutes. When you are done, wash the gel off your face and apply a moisturizer to finish your treatment.

Contraindications for Microcurrent

While microcurrent machines are safe, some individuals should avoid using the machine without talking to their doctors. Here are some of the main contraindications to microcurrent use:
  • Epilepsy
  • Pregnancy
  • Pacemaker
  • Cancer
  • Phlebitis
  • Metal plates
  • Thrombosis

If you suffer from any of these issues or have any other health concerns, speak with your physician before using a microcurrent machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ - Best Microcurrent Facial Devices for Home Use

How Often Can You Use Microcurrent Facial Devices at Home?

You can use at-home microcurrent machines multiple times per week. Each session can last 5 to 15 minutes. Professional treatments involve larger currents and longer sessions, requiring you to space them out longer compared to at-home treatments.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from Microcurrent?

Most people notice results after their first session. After about five minutes of use, you should notice a visible improvement in the tone of your facial muscles. However, you need to keep using it to get full results.

Are Microcurrent Results Permanent?

The results will not last without continued treatments. However, the results of microcurrent sessions are also cumulative. If you use a microcurrent machine weekly, you can gradually achieve longer-lasting results. The longer that you use the machine, the longer the effects last.

Do You Need Conductive Gel with Microcurrent?

The conductive gel is needed to help the electrical current flow from the device and through your skin. Without the gel, you may not achieve a strong enough current to produce any positive effects.

Can You Feel Microcurrent?

The microcurrent produces a mild tingling sensation. You may also feel the muscles tighten or twitch momentarily as you move the machine around your face. However, it does not produce noticeable discomfort or pain.

Conclusion

Microcurrent facial devices are safe and pain-free. You may experience a mild tingle, but the device is non-invasive. You simply allow an electrical current to pass through your face, which helps tone and tighten the muscles.

For best results, you should try to use the microcurrent device 5 to 15 minutes per day up to 3 times per week. You should also ensure that you choose the right microcurrent facial machine. All the recommendations are highly rated devices used by thousands of satisfied customers.

Judy Rose

Hi, it’s Judy!

I’m a passionate skincare specialist and writer. I have more than 7 years of experience as a beauty, fashion, and lifestyle writer and editor, and I’m extremely passionate about what I do.