Microcurrents is a low-level, alternating electrical current that has been used medically as therapy since the 1980s when it was first used as an FDA-approved treatment for Bell’s palsy and muscle paralysis. Research in the years that followed revealed microcurrents to also be an excellent facial treatment for improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles, and is now one of the most cutting-edge facial and beauty technologies on the market.
How does microcurrents achieve such incredible results? Microcurrent’s low-voltage electricity stimulates muscles, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) cell growth, and collagen development in the dermis of the face. Some even claim that after a microcurrents treatment the face appears to be more symmetrical, so if you’re a classic one-side-of-the-mouth smiler, microcurrents may help even out facial lopsidedness.
These days, many of the hottest new consumer skincare products employ microcurrents. They’re used to lift and sculpt facial contours, assist in lymphatic drainage, clarify and even skin tone, prevent oncoming breakouts, increase brightness and glow, depuff the under-eye area, and reduce wrinkles.
How do you pick the best microcurrents machine? Well, that depends on your face and, very much so, your wallet. Because of its technological requirements, microcurrents, traditionally, hasn’t been cheap. Treatments at a spa can range into upwards of $200 for a 30 minute treatment (with results lasting generally 48-72 hours), and some devices are well above $400. Cutting-edge improvements, however, are making better and cheaper products everyday, and now derm-level at home tools are available at a fraction of the price.
With more affordable at-home devices, you’re able to access the benefits of microcurrent more often (3-5x a week for 5-10+ minutes), and, like most things, consistency is key. The more you use it, the longer your desired results may last.
That’s why, to many, bringing microcurrents into your daily routines with an at-home device is a no-brainer. Over time you’ll save lots of money by using one of the many amazing microcurrents devices on the market today by not having to go to the spa, and some tools combine additional therapies like LED red light and facial massage for better results.
No matter what product you choose, it’s recommended you invest in a good conductive serum or gel to capture as much of the microcurrents benefit as possible, and, as always, consult your medical provider if you experience any issues or are unsure if you can use microcurrents due to underlying medical conditions.