Microcurrent facial devices: what they are, how they work and top picks

One of the latest crazes to hit the skincare market is microcurrent facial devices. While they might look a little daunting at first – an electrical current that touches your face doesn’t sound very appealing! – a microcurrent facial device can completely transform your skin and beauty routine.

Just like the best LED face masks, microcurrent facial devices have emerged from the dermatologists offices and made their way into people’s homes. They’re all over social media, like TikTok and Instagram, and many celebrities swear by them, including Jennifer Anniston, Hailey Bieber and Margot Robbie.

But what are microcurrent facial devices? How do they work? And most importantly, do they actually deliver good results? Before you add one to your basket, here’s everything you need to know about microcurrent facial devices.

What is a microcurrent facial device?

A microcurrent facial device is a palm-sized gadget that delivers an electrical current to the muscles and skin cells of the face. Microcurrent facial devices actually originate from the 1800s where they were used to treat injured muscles and partial facial paralysis, like Bell’s palsy.

Most microcurrent facial devices you’ll find today have a ‘V’ shape with a handle and two globes or spheres which make contact with the skin. The electrical currents come from the globes and flow through your facial muscles to stimulate and tone them, while reducing sagging and increasing collagen production and blood circulation.

Microcurrent facial devices are non-invasive, and while you might feel a tiny zap when you use one, they’re safe and relatively painless. Where you might feel a sting is if you use your gadget without the water-based conducting gel it comes with.

For the electrical current to work effectively, it needs to be used with a conducting gel or serum. The gel acts as a conductor to let the current flow and get deep into your skin. Using a microcurrent facial device without the gel means it won’t get as deep into your skin as it needs to, and it can also be painful.

How to use a microcurrent facial device

Depending on the brand you choose, you should receive the microcurrent facial device, its charger and a conducting gel in your purchase. It’s always important to follow the products’ instructions, so make sure to read them thoroughly before you use your new device.

To give a brief explanation on how to use your microcurrent facial device, you’ll need to start with clean and dry skin before applying the conductive gel. Next, turn on your device to its lowest setting and move it up your skin in a sweeping motion. Focus on your cheeks, forehead and jawline to get that lifted look.

Typically, the microcurrent facial device will turn itself off after its completed a treatment, which takes anywhere from 3-10 minutes. Skincare experts recommend using your microcurrent facial device 4-5 times a week, but this will depend on the device you have, so again, read the instructions!

Using a microcurrent facial device: Pros

The main benefits of using a microcurrent facial device is to get lifted and toned skin. As it works to stimulate your facial muscles, you’re essentially giving your face a workout, so you should notice your cheeks, forehead, jawline and brow bone looking higher, more lifted and sculpted.

Aside from tighter and healthier looking skin, a microcurrent facial device can also address other skincare concerns, like improving your circulation and stimulating collagen production for fewer wrinkles.

Using a microcurrent facial device: Cons

Unfortunately, nothing is without its faults so a microcurrent facial device might not be for everyone. For safety reasons, you shouldn’t use one if you have heart issues, epilepsy or you’re pregnant. In terms of skincare, if you have chronic acne, sensitive skin or are experiencing a flare-up, you should avoid using a microcurrent facial device. Before you use one, make sure to talk to your doctor or dermatologist.

T3's Top 3 microcurrent facial devices