The Ultimate Guide to Microcurrent Therapy for Skin: Benefits and How It Works (We Asked an Expert)

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Microcurrent devices have transitioned from esthetician spas and dermatologists' offices into the homes of skincare enthusiasts.

What's made these devices so popular is that they claim to lift, tone, and sculpt your skin and face. In other words, they can create that snatched look you may notice after a good facial.

Wondering if it's worth adding a microcurrent device to your skincare routine? You've come to the right place.

We consulted Dr. Courtney Rubin, a board-certified dermatologist at Comprehensive Dermatology of Pasadena and the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of clinical skincare brand Fig. 1 Beauty, to get the answers to all of your most-asked questions. 

Then, we rounded up the best microcurrent facial devices from NuFace, Foreo, and more for you to shop below!

What is an at-home microcurrent device?

Also referred to as a facial toning device, an at-home microcurrent device is a skincare tool that allows you to stimulate facial muscles with a low level of electrical current. 

“These devices usually utilize electrodes and some kind of conducting gel to transmit low levels of electrical current to facial tissues,” explains Dr. Rubin. These electrical currents then stimulate the muscles in your face and cause contractions, which results in a lifted, sculpted appearance.

Apart from the device, you'll need a conductive gel. "This creates an interface between the device and the skin to allow the current to pass," Dr. Rubin explains.

What are the benefits of using at-home microcurrent facial device?

“At-home microcurrent devices can help to lift, tone, and sculpt the face by stimulating facial muscles," our expert says. "With consistent use, you'll notice your skin will have a tighter, firmer, contoured appearance." 

Some devices offer additional features, like the Therapy Microcurrent Wand from Luce Beauty, which simultaneously delivers red light therapy.

Do at-home microcurrent devices actually work?

Like with any skincare product or treatment, the key to achieving the best results from an at-home microcurrent device is consistency. So you'll have to use it more than once, and ideally on a schedule to notice a difference. 

Dr. Rubin explains that “results are usually temporary and require repeat and sustained use of these devices to keep up." 

She reccomends a weekly basis or several times per week, depending on the device you choose.

Shop the best at-home microcurrent facial devices

From the the bestselling NuFace Mini to an option from Foreo, keep reading to shop microcurrent devices that give you a snatched look without a trip to the spa or the derm.