The best at-home microcurrent devices to lift and firm skin, according to experts
They use mild electrical currents to stimulate the muscles, which can give skin a lifted, firmer appearance.
FaceGym Pure Lift Facial Skincare Tool
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$799.00
The dermatologists I spoke to told me that while microcurrent tools do offer benefits from the microcurrent alone, there are other attributes to look out for to get the most from the technology.
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If used correctly and consistently, microcurrent devices can lend the appearance of more lifted, firmer and smoother skin. In addition to expert recommendations, our list also includes options that we’ve tried as well as other highly rated options.
This tool is a favorite for Dr. Deanne Mraz, a board-certified dermatologist in Westport, CT, since it has microcurrent technology in combination with customizable settings and attachments for cleansing, as well as percussive and LED therapy. (The percussive therapy uses massage to relieve tension and increase circulation, according to the brand.)
While it’s pricier and more complicated to use than other devices, you can get a lot done with this one versus cluttering your countertop with several other devices, says Mraz. It also comes with three massager attachments, an LED light therapy attachment, a facial cleansing attachment, conductive gel, a carrying case, storage stand and charging cable.
FDA-cleared: yes | Treatment time: 8 minutes | Number of levels: one
For a no-frills, microcurrent-only option, Mraz points to this tool. Not only does it have five levels of microcurrent — so you can start at a low intensity and work your way up as you get more comfortable with it — but it also has two small nodes for getting into smaller areas. Plus, “the sensors are easy to clean,” says Mraz. (You can just wipe them clean with a damp cloth after each use.) The device comes with a bottle of the brand’s Pure Lift Collagen Serum, although you can use it with any water-based serum, and a charging cable.
FDA-cleared: yes | Treatment time: 10 minutes | Number of levels: five
I’ve used a few microcurrent devices, but my favorite so far has been the Ziip Halo. It has a small shape (about the size of a computer mouse) that’s easy to move around my face, and it’s the only device to use both microcurrent and nanocurrent technology; nanocurrents (which are smaller than the former) work on a cellular level in skin, which make for longer lasting results, according to the brand. My skin looks less puffy and a bit smoother after a few months of intermittent use.
“It’s a lightweight design and has a silicone grip, so it doesn’t slip during use,” says Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “It also has an app that connects to the device which makes it more fun and interactive for the user.” The Ziip Halo comes with a charging cable and the brand’s conductive serum.
FDA-cleared: yes | Treatment time: 4 minutes | Number of levels: one
Mraz calls this a good option for someone who wants a straightforward, easy-to-use device — or the person who’s not sure about how consistent they’ll be. Plus, she says, “I like that because of its shape, you can safely get pretty close to the eye area versus some of the bigger, bulkier devices.” Instead of microcurrent, however, it uses a galvanic current, which helps your serums and moisturizers better absorb into skin, according to the brand. (Unlike microcurrent, it’s not invasive — and therefore won’t activate muscles.) It also has red LED light therapy, facial massage and a warming sensation, which can help reduce puffiness, according to Solawave.
FDA-cleared: applied + pending | Treatment time: 3 minutes | Number of levels: one
Foreo is a popular brand among our NBC Select editors. What sets Foreo Bear apart is that it can deliver results in as soon as little as two minutes a day, according to the brand. It has 10 microcurrent levels, giving you the most control over the intensity of any device on this list, and you can use it on both the face and neck. The Foreo Bear is made of 100% silicone (so it’s waterproof), comes with a charging cable, stand, and travel pouch and lasts up to 90 uses on a single charge, according to Foreo.
FDA-cleared: yes | Treatment time: 2 minutes | Number of levels: 10
The NuFace device pairs with an app that will offer and guide you through various routines. “I love the design, which is super small and compact, and there’s no pain or discomfort with each treatment,” says Nazarian. While the device comes with the two knobs to conduct the microcurrent, this set also has a targeted lip and eye attachment to give you a more concentrated treatment, which makes it a favorite of Yadav. “The small tips are great at getting into the arch of the brow,” she says. It comes with a storage cradle, charging cable, conductive gel and moisturizer.
FDA-cleared: yes | Treatment time: 5 to 15 minutes | Number of levels: three, plus a boost button
This compact microcurrent device, designed for advanced users, stimulates collagen production and blood flow, according to the brand. Using its soft touch keypad, you can adjust the mode, level and time. There are two modes: erase (combats fine lines) and educate (tones and lifts your face and neck areas) — each mode has two levels that adjust the intensity of the treatment. The MyoLife Mini includes the device (which has two probes to mimic professional technique and target specific areas), three masks (lip, eye and forehead) that connect to the device for a hands-free treatment, conductive gel and a charging cable. It has a 4.1-star average rating from over 190 reviews on Amazon.
FDA-cleared: yes | Treatment time: 5 to 10 minutes | Number of levels: two for erase, two for educate
Microcurrent technology works on a few different levels to improve skin’s texture, tone and elasticity, according to Mraz. Here’s a breakdown of what it can do for the skin:
The biggest factor in getting results from microcurrent devices is how often — and how consistently — you use them. In most cases, you’ll only maintain them if you use them regularly, so Mraz recommends factoring in your schedule and lifestyle when you’re shopping so that you go with a device that you actually have time to use regularly. That goes for both the treatment time, which can range from two minutes to more than 20, based on how you use it, as well as the frequency. “Most will recommend using it five times a week for the first two months or so, and then maintaining results with a schedule of three times a week,” she says.
Next, look to see whether it’s FDA-cleared, says Yadav. (More on that in a moment.) She also recommends looking for brands that have clinical studies to back up their claims. “A lot of at-home devices can be gimmicky,” she says. “Evidence of efficacy with clinical studies, as well as high-quality before and after photos, will help you to avoid spending a lot of money on something that doesn’t work.”
Finally, seek out additional attachments. Some come with interchangeable heads or attachments, while others can be paired with those sold separately. “Look for microcurrent that also combines LED light therapy for amplified skin benefits,” says Mraz. (LED light therapy has the potential to improve acne, inflammation, and healing.)
Also, Yadav recommends looking for a device with a head that features prong-style electrodes, since these “are better at delivering targeted energy than an applicator with a flat surface,” she says.
Although this won’t make or break it, FDA clearance means that the FDA has assessed the product and determined that its technology can be marketed as safe, effective and substantially equivalent to another legally marketed device. (FDA approval, meanwhile, requires a rigorous legal and testing process.)
However, since these devices are operating at a much weaker strength than those found in doctors’ offices or used for serious medical purposes, some experts say that even FDA clearance may be more of a marketing advantage rather than a true measure of the device’s efficacy. Still, “it is a sign of more rigorous testing and extensive research,” says Mraz.
These devices require a long-term commitment and our experts recommend keeping this in mind when considering adding one to your routine. “Consistency and a desire to do it several times a week is key, otherwise you won’t see results and you might be better off saving that money to use for in-office treatments or to upgrade your at-home skincare,” says Mraz.
To that end, Mraz recommends getting your topical skin care in order, such as moisturizers and sunscreens. After all, “microcurrent devices work most effectively on hydrated skin,” she says.
While the exact usage varies, generally, you need to first apply a conductive gel or serum to clean, dry skin. This slippery layer not only allows the device to glide over skin, but also helps to conduct the microcurrent to your skin.
Each microcurrent device has its own protocol, some of which — as in the case of the Ziip and the NuFace devices — are available through a corresponding app. It typically involves moving the device several times across small sections of your face until you’ve treated your entire face and neck.
While it might depend on the brand, you can generally expect to devote a few minutes each day, every day. “Commit to five minutes a day a minimum of five days a week for at least eight weeks before judging the results,” says Mraz. While the lifting effect may be immediate (since the microcurrent is actively toning the muscle), you’ll see its other benefits over time, as the collagen and elastin synthesis occurs gradually.
Then, to maintain the results, “use it at least three times a week long term,” says Nazarian. She recommends using a slippery primer or gel — some of which come included with the device — to help it glide on skin and enhance penetration.
It’s unlikely that you can do too much microcurrent, since these devices’ power is generally weaker than any device found in a dermatology office. Research on the topic found that aside from temporary redness and swelling, there were no adverse reactions associated with microcurrent devices. (That said, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.)
They should be safe to use in most people, says Nazarian. In addition to people who’ve received injectables like dermal filler or neuromodulators in the past two weeks, those who are pregnant, have heart conditions or epilepsy, or have metal implants or a pacemaker should not use microcurrent — especially without the guidance or supervision of a doctor, says Yadav.
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
I am a freelance beauty writer and editor who has been covering beauty and health for more than a decade, including topics like ceramides and products for people with dermatitis. For this article, I spoke to three dermatologists to narrow down the best microcurrent devices to shop, and highlighted their recommendations about what to consider when shopping.
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