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Microcurrent Facial Toning at Home: What It Is and What to Expect

Microcurrent is a very low-level electrical current, measured in millionths of an amp, passed across the skin through a metal head. People use it for a more toned, lifted look along the cheekbones and jawline. Skin Perfection's microcurrent device is the Derma Rescue LED Microcurrent, which combines microcurrent with LED light and galvanic modes in one handheld unit.

How Microcurrent Is Thought to Work

The idea behind microcurrent comes largely from lab research. In a 1982 lab study on rat skin samples, not people, currents of 50 to 1,000 microamperes raised ATP, the energy molecule cells run on, three- to fivefold over controls, while currents above 1,000 microamperes no longer raised it and 5,000 microamperes lowered it slightly. Whether the same effect happens in human facial skin with a home device has not been shown.

What Results to Expect

Human studies are few. In a split-face study of 22 adults who used a home device combining radiofrequency, red LED and microcurrent twice a week for 8 weeks, skin texture improved significantly, but wrinkle size, wrinkle depth and face volume did not change significantly, and no side effects were reported. A realistic expectation is smoother-feeling skin and a short-term toned look after each session, with regular use to keep it up. Microcurrent is not a substitute for a surgical facelift.

Derma Rescue LED Microcurrent

Product Modes Best for Price
Derma Rescue LED Microcurrent Microcurrent with titanium head, red LED 630 to 660 nm, blue LED, galvanic cleanse and nourish A toned look along the cheeks and jawline, plus LED in the same session $129.95

The Derma Rescue LED Microcurrent uses a titanium head for microcurrent: you touch the silver oval with a finger to complete the circuit, then glide the head over the face. The manufacturer's directions call for daily sessions during the first month, then 1 to 2 times a week. For how microcurrent compares with LED light, see our skin care tools guide.

How to Use Microcurrent

  1. Cleanse and remove all makeup.
  2. Apply a conductive water-based gel or serum. A water-based peptide serum works, and keeps the head gliding.
  3. Glide the head slowly upward and outward over the jaw, cheeks and forehead. Avoid the eye area.
  4. If you also use LED, do it after microcurrent, then apply moisturizer.

Read the manual's safety precautions first. Ask your doctor before using microcurrent if you are pregnant or have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device. Skip areas with broken or irritated skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does microcurrent really work?

The evidence is limited. One split-face study of a home device that included microcurrent found smoother texture after 8 weeks, but no significant change in wrinkle depth or face volume. Most of the theory comes from lab studies, not people.

How long do microcurrent results last?

The toned look is temporary, which is why devices recommend ongoing sessions. For the Derma Rescue, that means daily use for the first month and 1 to 2 times a week after that.

Does microcurrent hurt?

It should not. You may feel a light tingle or nothing at all. If you feel stinging, stop, add more gel and keep the head moving.

Do I need a gel for microcurrent?

Yes. A water-based gel or serum helps the current pass across the skin and lets the head glide. Oils do not conduct electricity well, so avoid oil-based products under the head.

Is microcurrent safe for everyone?

No. Follow the device's contraindications, and ask your doctor first if you are pregnant or have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device.

Sources

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

About the Author
Written by Kari Thomas, cosmetic formulator and founder of Skin Perfection.