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When it comes to aging, there's good news and bad news. We'll start with the bad first: Aging is unavoidable, and treating fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and uneven texture can be quite pricey depending on the in-office treatment, injectable, or product you decided to get. The good news, though? Thanks to recent technological advancements in the beauty industry, there are now tons of at-h0me microcurrent devices available at our fingertips that can plump, tone, and tighten tired-looking skin at a fraction of the price.
"Microcurrent devices are beauty tools that deliver an electrical current to the muscles and skin cells in the face," says Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. "This current works to build up the muscles in the face, which in turn lift and tighten the skin while also smoothing lines. This can stimulate the production of collagen as well, which strengthens the skin and helps with elasticity, hydration, and signs of aging."
Ahead, the best microcurrent devices to add to your anti-aging skincare routine.
Best for Contouring
Trophy Skin RejuvatoneMD — The Facial Toning System
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Best All-in-One Device
Solawave Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy & Serum Kit
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Esthetician-Loved
MyoLift™ QT Plus Facial Toning Device
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ReFa S Carat RAY -Deluxe Eye, Lip & Forehead Roller
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Pros
- Blurs fine line and wrinkles, and tightens skin over time
- Travel-friendly
Cons
This wouldn't be a best microcurrent device list without mentioning an FDA-cleared NuFace device. The brand's top-seller, the MINI+, offers three intensities that help tone, lift, and sculpt the face in minutes and comes with two activators and a brush for pre-treatment application. It also connects with an exclusive app that offers several at-home treatments for different areas of the face. Need another reason to add to cart? The T&C tried-and-true tool is easy, not time-consuming, and great to use in between your monthly facials when you want a tighter and chiseled complexion.
One reviewer says: "The few fine lines I had around my eyes and mouth are now completely gone! The jowls I had starting at my mouth/chin area have become less visible! I also had a few large pores that have seemed to vanish."
Suggested Use: 5 minutes per day, 5x a week
Treatment Levels: 3
Best for Contouring
Trophy Skin RejuvatoneMD — The Facial Toning System
Best for Contouring
Trophy Skin RejuvatoneMD — The Facial Toning System
Pros
- Comes with activator to use with the device
- Noticeable results in 5 minutes
Cons
Another FDA-cleared toning device that gets top marks for its instant sculpting effects. Featuring separate toning and lifting modes, the Trophy Skin tool gently stimulates facial muscles to increase blood flow, boosting collagen and elastin production for a plumper, lifted, and wrinkle-free visage.
One reviewer raves: "This handheld device is a miracle worker!! It's portable, convenient, stylish, and most importantly - it WORKS to combat wrinkles, lines, sagging skin, and is a necessary weapon for your anti-aging arsenal!"
Suggested Use: 10 minutes per day, 1-2x a week
Treatment Levels: 2
Pros
- Fast and noticeable results
- Super lightweight and travel-friendly
Cons
For a relaxing, at-home facial that can't be beat, look no further than Ziip's latest innovation. A T&C fave, it combines nanocurrent and microcurrent technology to sculpt the face and neck, chisel out cheekbones and the jawline, and promote a glow like none other. Plus, it's compatible with a special app that offers a selection of treatments based on your concerns.
One reviewer says: "I’m absolutely addicted to this device. The app makes it easy and fun to use. The results on your skin are incredible. I’ve been using for about a month and have had multiple people comment on how good my skin is looking. This is the only thing I’ve changed in my routine so I will attribute it to the Halo device."
Suggested Use: 4 minutes per day, 3-5x a week
Treatment Levels: 1
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Pros
- Suitable to travel with
- Provides customizable facial treatments
Cons
Behold, a do-it-all facial device that can actually do it all. The TheraFace Pro comes with six different attachments, including a microcurrent head, that can help relieve tension in the face, tighten and brighten skin, combat fine lines and wrinkles, clear away acne, and remove any lingering dirt, oil, or debris in pores.
T&C's Deputy Digital Lifestyle Director Roxanne Adamiyatt says the microcurrent attachment is her favorite part "because it really does give you instantly sculpted and de-puffed results." Another reason she loves it? It's travel-friendly. "This has been a gamechanger for me because in the past I've left my standalone versions of these attachments at home as it's not efficient packing to bring them all with me on a trip."
Suggested Use: Maximum of 8 minutes per day
Treatment Levels: 3
Cons
Talk about heavy lifting! Powered by patented triple-wave technology, the FaceGym tool is like a workout for the face. It deeply stimulates facial muscles to visibly plump, tone, and firm the skin, leaving you with a younger-looking, healthy appearance. Equally as impressive: the patented diamond-shaped probes that awaken and reenergize for a smooth, refreshed complexion.
One reviewer writes, after just one 5-minute session, "you can see instant changes, but I'm mostly excited for the long term results."
Suggested Use: 5 minutes on each side, every other day
Treatment Levels: 3
Pros
- Offers five microcurrent intensities
- Compatible with exclusive app
Cons
Want to achieve pro-quality facial results at home? Foreo's recently-updated tool won't disappoint. The handheld gadget uses 4 types of microcurrents to tighten, brighten, and contour the face and neck, while patented T-Sonic pulsations help stimulate facial muscles and awaken skin. And the best part of all? The Bear device has an anti-shock system that automatically adjusts the device’s microcurrent intensity based on your skin's resistance to electricity for the most comfortable at-home treatment.
Suggested Use: 3 minutes per area, everyday
Treatment Levels: 5
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Pros
- FDA-cleared
- Comes with hydrating activator to use with the device
Cons
Similar to its sister device, the NuBODY uses microcurrent technology that tones, firms, and smooths away the look of dimples on the abs, butt, thighs, and arms in five minutes.
Reviewers love how easy it is to use and report instant results, with one writing: "My arms are much slimmer and now I'm using it on my stomach. I recommend it 100%"
Suggested Use: 5 minutes per day, 5x a week
Treatment Levels: 3
Best All-in-One Device
Solawave Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy & Serum Kit
Best All-in-One Device
Solawave Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy & Serum Kit
Pros
- Boost skin's glow
- Instant and noticeable results
Cons
Don't be fooled by the size of this small facial toner, because in just five minutes, it can help turn back the hands of time. Combining microcurrent with red light therapy, a low-vibrating facial massage, and therapeutic warmth, the ergonomic wand glides easily across the face to reinvigorate the skin, while blurring the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles, blemishes, and dark spots. For best results, use it with the accompanying hyaluronic acid- and aloe vera-infused activator that deeply nourishes and hydrates.
Reviewers also love the device for its portability, convenience, and relaxing effects. "I’ve been using the wand and serum for a few weeks and I definitely notice a difference in my skin tone!" writes a user. "And it’s a relaxing treat I look forward to every night. I love how the wand warms up and gives me a facial massage. I’m hooked!"
Suggested Use: 5 minute per day, 3x a week
Treatment Levels: 1
Pros
- FDA-cleared
- Connects to an app for custom treatments
Cons
Trick everyone into thinking you just returned to a facial with this esthetician-loved device that zaps fine lines and wrinkles, contours facial features, and improves skin texture straight from the comfort of your own home.
Suggested Use: 5-20 minutes per day, everyday
Treatment Levels: 2
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ReFa S Carat RAY -Deluxe Eye, Lip & Forehead Roller
Powered by Solar Power
ReFa S Carat RAY -Deluxe Eye, Lip & Forehead Roller
Pros
- Doesn't need batteries or to be recharged
- Waterproof, can be used in bath
Cons
This platinum facial roller has a built-in solar panel display that converts light into a powerful microcurrent to de-puff, firm, and smooth the face, especially in hard-to-reach areas around the eyes and mouth.
One reviewer writes: "This is great for doing a daily facial massage, which is really important to actually look like yourself. With this and a vibrating wand I ended up clearing my sinuses and a bunch of puffiness in my face, and it helps your products sink in and is great for your complexion."
Suggested Use: Up to 30 minutes daily
Treatment Levels: 1
Pros
- Doubles as lip plumper
- Fast treatment
Cons
This small but mighty device is designed to be used in those hard to reach areas (think: around the eyes, lips, and nose). It not only helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also be used on the lips to create a plumper-looking pout.
One reviewer says: "This is my favorite item in my beauty routine - it’s easy and has mega results!! Especially lips!"
Suggested Use: 3 minutes 2x a day, 5x a week
Treatment Levels: 1
Do microcurrent devices actually work?
According to Dr. Engelman, microcurrent devices work well at improving the appearance of skin. By delivering electrical currents to the muscles and skin cells, the face will begin to lift and tighten while also blurring away any lines over time. "Although there is not much research on the long-term use of microcurrent therapy, some report immediate results after these facials," the pro adds. "For some, it can take a few sessions to see any changes at all though."
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What is the best microcurrent device?
All devices listed above are effective at toning, lifting, and tightening the skin. But when it comes to achieving professional-quality results, Dr. Engelman agrees that some of the best microcurrent devices on the market are by NuFace.
"I recommend the NuFace device because it provides the effects of a pro-level microcurrent device while being used in the comfort of your home," says Dr. Engelman. "By using this for only 5 minutes a day, it will help to improve facial tone and the appearance of lines and wrinkles. I also love how this device has other attachments you can buy to aid in specific problem areas, such as the lip and eyes."
Do microcurrent devices hurt?
Don't be intimidated by the devices. "Usually, microcurrent facials are noninvasive and do not hurt," says Dr. Engelman. "The currents are so low that you often can’t even feel them. If anything, you will experience a gentle hum or warmth on the skin."
Can you overdo it with microcurrent devices?
"Since the treatment is noninvasive and is not painful, there is no fear in overdoing microcurrent facials," says Dr. Engelman. "If used correctly, microcurrent devices should not cause any damage or harm to the skin."
Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more.
Certainly! The article you provided delves into the realm of at-home beauty technology specifically focusing on microcurrent devices for anti-aging skincare routines. As someone deeply involved in skincare and beauty technology, I can certainly break down the concepts involved in this piece.
The article discusses various microcurrent devices that utilize electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles and skin cells. These devices aim to address common signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and uneven texture. Here's an analysis of the key concepts:
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Microcurrent Technology: This involves the application of low-level electrical currents to facial muscles and skin cells. These currents aim to stimulate muscles, tighten the skin, and potentially boost collagen production. The devices mentioned in the article leverage this technology to provide at-home treatments for users seeking anti-aging benefits.
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Benefits of Microcurrent Devices: The article highlights several benefits, such as toning, lifting, and tightening the skin. Additionally, it mentions the potential for these devices to improve elasticity, hydration, and overall signs of aging by stimulating collagen production.
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Featured Microcurrent Devices: The article lists several recommended microcurrent devices, categorizing them based on their specific benefits, such as contouring, lifting, intense toning, and addressing sagging skin. Each device has its own suggested use, treatment levels, and claimed benefits.
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Expert Opinion: The article incorporates insights from Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Dr. Engelman validates the effectiveness of microcurrent devices for improving skin appearance and recommends NuFace devices as particularly effective for achieving professional-quality results at home.
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Usage and Safety: The article addresses concerns regarding the usage and safety of microcurrent devices. It emphasizes that these treatments are generally noninvasive and should not cause pain or harm if used correctly. However, the article also suggests following the recommended treatment guidelines.
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Testimonials and Reviews: Testimonials from users who have experienced positive results after using these devices are included, reinforcing the effectiveness and credibility of the products.
Overall, the article serves as a guide for individuals seeking at-home solutions for anti-aging skincare through the use of microcurrent devices, backed by expert opinions, user testimonials, and specific product recommendations.