If you follow beauty bloggers or influencers on SkinTok (the skincare side of TikTok), you have probably seen a plethora of articles and videos on trending microcurrent facial devices. These at-home beauty devices, largely made popular by the brand NuFACE, claim to tone and tighten your face, resulting in a younger appearance. But do they really work?
What Are Microcurrent Facials?
Before getting into the details of whether or not microcurrent facials really work, let’s take a step back and dive into the science behind how they work. Microcurrents are low-level currents of electrical energy that are supposed to mimic your body’s natural electrical activity. Some limited studies have found that these microcurrents may increase something called ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which gives your cells energy. In doing so, the idea is that microcurrent facial devices may help your cells to create more collagen and more effectively self-repair.
Do Microcurrents Benefit Your Skin?
While this all sounds great in theory, the reality is that the majority of research on microcurrent therapy is in the context of physical therapy and other medical uses. We simply do not have much clinical evidence for or against the use of at-home microcurrent devices for facial toning, tightening and anti-aging. So while giving these devices a try can’t hurt anything, it also might not necessarily help, either.
Additionally, any results you do see are likely to be short-lived, and you will have to continue using the device regularly in order to maintain any results you’ve achieved.
Better Alternatives to Microcurrent Facials
If you’re not quite sold on microcurrent facials but are still looking for an effective treatment for skin laxity, wrinkles and other age-related concerns, Dr. West recommends proven in-office treatments such as:
- Injectables. If lines, wrinkles or lost facial volume are primary concerns for you, injectables like dermal fillers and/or BOTOX® or Dysport® can be effective solutions. Unlike microcurrent facial devices, injectable treatments don’t require daily maintenance and can last for months or even a year or more.
- Microneedling. If you’re looking for an improvement in your overall skin tone and texture, microneedling devices like Morpheus8 can be a great choice. This treatment stimulates collagen and cell renewal to address a variety of common skin concerns, including wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation and enlarged pores.
- Laser treatments. Sun damage, dark spots, redness, acne scars, dull or rough skin and much more can be effectively improved with laser treatments like the CO2 Laser Peel or Lumecca® IPL Skin Rejuvenation. Depending on the type of laser treatment you choose, you may only need 1 to 3 sessions to achieve optimal results.
Choosing the Best Anti-Aging Treatments for Your Skin
Whether you’re looking for in-office treatments like injectables, microneedling or lasers or an at-home skincare regimen for anti-aging, Dr. West and her team of skincare experts can help. We will assess your skin’s unique qualities, listen to your goals and trouble areas and create a customized treatment plan that’s right for you.
To get started with your consultation, call our Ann Arbor office at 734-971-0262 or get in touch with us online today!
Author: Dr. Jessica West
Dr. Jessica West is the Medical Director for the Michigan Center for Cosmetic Services in Ann Arbor. Dr. West is double board certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and by the American Board of Otolaryngology & Facial Plastic Surgery. She is known for her superior aesthetic results, strong attention to detail, artistic eye, and honest expert opinion in regards to both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
