If you’re after sculpted cheekbones, a defined jawline, or lifted eyebrows, the best microcurrent devices offer professional-level results from the comfort of your home. A microcurrent device is a high-tech beauty tool that's been gaining popularity as a quick at-home microcurrent alternative to pricey in-office treatments. Just as you hit the gym to tone up your physique, you can also chisel your facial features by working out your face. While this can be done by performing facial massages with your bare hands or even a facial roller, few tactics rival the significant effects of microcurrent.
Our top picks
- Best Overall: NuFace Trinity Starter Kit, $350
- Best for Beginners: Ziip Halo, $349
- Best for Travel: Foreo Bear 2, $399
- Best Multiuse: Therabody TheraFace Pro, $399
- Best Hands-Free: 7E Wellness MyoLift QT Plus Facial Toning Device, $329
- Best Affordable: Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand, $169
What do microcurrent devices do?
Long used by estheticians and dermatologists during in-office treatments, microcurrent tools address a slew of skin concerns with low-level electrical currents, Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, tells Glamour. “These innovative devices stimulate facial muscles, enhance tone, and reduce sagging in a way that’s noninvasive and safe, providing an alternative to surgical facelifts,” she says. These effects, along with reducing puffiness and increasing circulation, can be seen almost immediately post-treatment, though there are long-term benefits as well. Shamara Bondaroff, a New York–based master esthetician specializing in microcurrent facials and founder of SB Skin, adds that with regular use microcurrent devices also work to stimulate collagen and elastin production, which can ultimately minimize the appearance of wrinkles.
How do microcurrent devices work?
This may shock you, but unlike other skin care tools, you can’t just glide a microcurrent device directly across a clean face. For the electrical current to effectively reach deep into the facial muscles, the gadget needs to be used in tandem with a water-based conducting gel (a majority of at-home devices come with one). “Electricity needs to have a conductor for the electrons to flow,” says Bondaroff. “Without one you are not reaping the benefits of the machine, and it will just stay on the top layers of your skin, which can cause a zappy and stingy feeling.” While some tingling sensations and muscle contractions are completely normal when using these tools, if you feel a painful zap, that means you’re not using enough conducting gel.
Once you apply a conductive gel (and thoroughly read your device’s manual), turn the tool to the lowest setting and slowly glide it along your jawline, cheeks, brown bone, and forehead in upward sweeping motions. Most manufacturers recommend using microcurrent devices once a day for 5 to 10 minutes, though the exact treatment time varies by device.
What special features should I look for in a microcurrent device?
Given the high-tech nature of microcurrent devices, many brands have designed apps that sync with the tool and allow you to follow along with targeted treatment tutorials. “A good app is important for microcurrent novices to diagnose skin type and skin goals, and drive them toward bespoke tutorials,” Sarah Akram, a celebrity esthetician and founder of Sarah Akram Skincare in Alexandria, Virginia, tells Glamour.
Beyond app compatibility, there are a few different features to consider before purchasing a microcurrent device. Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group and clinical instructor at Mount Sinai Hospital, highly recommends looking for tools with FDA approval to ensure the tool is safe for at-home use. She also suggests seeking out options with multiple intensity levels so you can adjust the device to suit your skin’s sensitivity and comfort level.
The best microcurrent devices
Ready to experience all of the benefits of microcurrent? Below you’ll find nine of the most highly rated microcurrent devices, all of which have been vetted by derms or tested by our team of beauty pros.
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
