10 Best Microcurrent Devices to Tighten Your Skin and Reduce Breakouts

Dr. Karan Lal, Director of Cosmetic Surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona

“Microcurrent devices use low-level electric voltage to stimulate the skin and muscles of the face,” says Dr. Lal. “Our muscles of facial expression are intertwined within a system called the SMAS–Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System—which helps coordinate facial movement. Over time, this system becomes weaker. Microcurrent devices are thought to stimulate and activate this system. This is why after use, you can see a subtle lift.”

“They are safe, but reminder they are causing electricity to move through your skin. For this reason, patients with epilepsy, pacemakers, defibrillators, and/or other implantable devices avoid microcurrent devices,” warns Dr. Lal. Always make sure to read the instructions for your device. “These devices, when used per the recommendations, provide safe results. If you aren’t using the product as recommended, you could get redness, blisters, and burning.”

Although you may see results immediately, “Be mindful, the lift is temporary, but over time the thought is it will help sustain a snatched look,” says Dr. Lal. “You will likely see a snatched appearance after use, but this will be gone within a few hours at max. It takes months and even years to see sustained improvement, which will be subtle. You want to use it daily to get the best results.”

If you want stronger and longer-lasting results, consider an in-office treatment. “As a cosmetic laser surgeon, in-office treatments provide better and longer lasting results,” says Dr. Lal. “Treatments like Ultherapy, Skintyte, EMFACE, and Endymed Pro are great non-invasive options that can give you a more robust outcome. All non-invasive options in the office, however, also provide temporary results; thus maintenance treatments are required over time. Often times I’ll recommend in-office procedures to kick start and then recommend microcurrent devices to maintain results.”