Microcurrent machines use electricity to give your face a lift – without surgery. Two electrodes pass a mild electrical current back and forth, stimulating the muscles beneath the skin and causing them to visibly perk up after just one treatment. A series of treatments can result in even more permanent improvements.

Celebrities and medical estheticians alike swear by this trendy new treatment, but is it right for you? We investigated the history of microcurrent machines, how they’re used, and the best at-home microcurrent machines for your consideration.

The Science Behind Electrical Muscle Stimulation

The central nervous system sends signals in the form of electrical currents to muscle tissues, causing them to contract. The charge from the electrodes in microcurrent machines stimulates targeted areas by mimicking these signals – even if the muscles are paralyzed or otherwise immobile.

Microcurrent machines were originally used to treat patients suffering from Bell’s palsy, a facial paralysis that often affects only one half of the face. It soon became apparent to researchers that microcurrent machines could also be used to rejuvenate facial muscles in patients without paralysis. This marked the beginning of the use of microcurrent machines in aesthetics.

As the name suggests, the current used in microcurrent machines is very small – far below the electrical threshold that could harm a human.

A conductive gel is first spread over the skin, much like during an ultrasound, to keep the current from reacting with the skin and to ensure that it penetrates into the muscle instead. The gel also insulates you from experiencing any tiny shocks. In fact, some people find the process so relaxing that they actually fall asleep during their treatments.

Are Microcurrent Facials Right for Me?

Microcurrent facials carry a much lower risk than surgery or injectables. However, it does take more treatments to achieve a cumulative effect, and these effects may not be as permanent as those of an actual facelift.

Although microcurrent machines won’t completely erase deep lines and wrinkles, they do produce subtle changes over time.

Some estheticians view microcurrent facials as a defense against aging, and recommend getting monthly maintenance treatments starting as early as in your 20s. Because of the number of appointments needed, this can end up costing thousands of dollars.

Several at-home microcurrent machines have recently entered the market. As with most devices adapted for consumer use, they don’t offer as much power as the professional versions. Treatment may take longer and results may not be as substantial, but these machines only cost a fraction of the price of professional treatments.

Which Device to Take Home

You’ll want to make sure that you’re purchasing a quality at-home microcurrent machine that will actually give you results. Check out our affordable LED/Microcurrent machine.