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We’re officially living in the future: High-tech devices, like hair growth devices for healthier strands, red light therapy devices for the neck, and cold laser therapy devices that reduce inflammation, can and do have visible impacts on our skin and hair. Microcurrent devices, in particular, provide impressive results with minimal effort or time.
“Microcurrent is a low-level current that mimics the body's natural current, sending soft, gentle waves through the skin and tissue stimulating the muscles to provide both instant and cumulative anti-aging results,” explains Tera Peterson, the co-founder of NuFACE and a microcurrent esthetician. The best microcurrent devices tighten the skin after just one session, smoothing out fine lines and giving everything a lift in the blink of an eye.
Our picks for the best microcurrent devices in 2024
There is a slight catch—after all, nothing in life is free. In order to maintain your newly sculpted cheekbones and razor-sharp jawline, you have to consistently use the device. “You want to use it daily to get the best results,” says dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal, a double-board certified pediatric and cosmetic dermatologist based in Scottsdale, AZ. Peterson also adds that these “results are instant and cumulative. You’ll see benefits the first time you use it and long-term benefits over time with consistent use.” Luckily, using a microcurrent device doesn’t have much of a learning curve, and they’re not nearly as expensive long-term or invasive as Botox and fillers (which also aren’t permanent fixes).
If you’re ready to get started but don’t know which tool is worth the money, you’ve come to the right place. After speaking with experts, testing devices on our own faces, and reading through customer reviews, we compiled this guide to the 10 best microcurrent devices for smooth, taut skin and model-esque cheekbones.
Pros
- Small size
Cons
- Can take time to cover entire face due to size
This microcurrent device won’t take up precious space in your carry-on or bathroom shelf, making it a fan favorite. “This is an easy-to-use wand that is portable and has [a] red light, which has additional anti-inflammatory properties,” says Dr. Lal. When in use, the SolaWave device also becomes warm, which gives the skin an extra warming effect. This device helps soothe breakouts, reduce puffiness, and promote an even skin tone.
What’s Included: Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand
How to use: Apply conducive serum, glide device across skin upward and outward
Treatment time: At least 5 minutes
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “What’s not to love? The device is small enough to travel seamlessly and the shape allows you to get within the curvatures of the face. Plus, it takes 12 minutes to treat your face and is a great way to help your products seep in while providing slip. The accompanying Jelly Mist provides great slip and also doubles as a nice hydrating mix.” — Danielle James, beauty expert
Pros
- Boost button gives longer-lasting results
Cons
- Red light therapy and eye contouring attachments sold separately
Which one do dermatologists love? “The Trinity Facial Toning Device by NuFace,” says dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. “This is the most widely used device. Patients love its ease of use. It’s affordable and fits in travel bags!” The Trinity device just got an upgrade with Trinity+, which features a sleeker design and magnetic attachments and is now water-resistant. This set also comes with a gel to help the device easily glide on the skin, an anti-aging cream to maximize results, and a brush to apply the products mess-free.
What’s included: Trinity+ Smart Advanced Facial Toning Device with Facial Trainer Attachment, Aqua Gel Activator 1.69 Oz, Silk Crème Activator 0.5 Oz, Clean Sweep Applicator Brush, Wireless Charging Cradle & Power Adapter, User Manual & Quick Start Guide
How to use: Apply activator serum, hold and glide device along contours of the face in areas where lifting is desired
Treatment time: 5–15 minutes
NuFACE rating: 4.3/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “After seeing dramatic before and after videos on TikTok, I was desperate to try this device. I didn’t necessarily have high hopes, though—disillusioned by one too many products that claimed to be quick fixes, I decided to go in with low expectations. However, once I began using it, I discovered that although my results weren’t as jaw-dropping, there definitely was some visible lifting and toning. Although I’m not as consistent with it as I’d like to be, I look forward to seeing how this tool helps keep everything nice and taut through the years.” —Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer
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3
Best for Intense Toning
FOREO Bear Facial Toning Device
Now 35% Off
$214 at Walmart$329 at Nordstrom$329 at Ulta Beauty
Pros
- Very comfortable experience
Cons
- Must download the Foreo app to make device work
Think of facial toning as a workout for your skin. This device is the Barry’s Bootcamp of the skin care device world, allowing you to sculpt your face and reduce signs of aging. “This is the second most popular device amongst my patients,” says Dr. Lal. “It has five intensities. It also has an anti-shock system, so it works with your skin.” The anti-shock system allows you to have a comfortable experience, with minimal tingling or zapping that can occur with other devices.
What’s Included: Foreo Microcurrent Device, Charger
How to use: Apply conducive gel, glide device across the skin where lifting and sculpting is desired
Treatment time: 3 minutes
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using this device twice a day for the last couple months (may have skipped a few times but been consistent), and I have definitely seen results in the lift of my skin. I focus around my mouth and eye areas. The results are noticeable to me as well as my family members.”
Pros
- Multiple attachments included in purchase
Cons
- Device can feel bulky, particularly with cleansing attachment
If you’re a beauty obsessive, you may have accumulated a wide array of high-tech tools that spend more time in a drawer than on your face. This tool by TheraBody combines them all. By swapping out attachments, this tool becomes a microcurrent device, an LED therapy tool–which includes red, blue, and infrared therapy–a massager, and a cleansing tool. For an additional $99, you can also buy cooling and heating attachments for thermal therapy.
What’s Included: 8 Percussive Therapy Attachments, Hot & Cold rings, LED light, TheraFace Gel 1.7 Fl Oz
How to use: Glide device across treatment areas as needed for each attachment
Treatment time: Up to 8 minutes
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Admittedly, I don’t know exactly how the treatments work at the physiological level, but I have only had good results from using this device. Even after days when I eat more carbs or sodium (when my face usually retains more water and looks puffier), I often use the percussive and microcurrent therapies, which help activate my facial muscles and ‘redistribute’ a lot of fluid in the face, so my face looks much better defined. Although it might sound shallow, when I see that my face is more contoured, and that my skin is brighter, my mood is 10 times better.”
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Pros
- Gives long-lasting results quickly
Cons
- The device cannot be bought without the serum
If your skincare goals include hopping in a time machine, this Ziip microcurrent device might be the next best thing. Ziip encourages consumers to use the included serum, which is formulated specifically to allow the microcurrents to go through your skin. Together, this duo helps tighten the skin, relaxes fine lines and wrinkles, and gives back a glow you may have been missing.
What’s Included: Ziip Halo Device, Electric Complex Gel, 1.7 fl. oz., USB-C charging cable
How to use: Apply conductive gel, glide device across the skin where lifting and sculpting is desired
Treatment time: 4 minutes
Ziip rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Ziip reviewer says: “I’ve been using the Ziip almost daily for about 30 days and see notable texture improvement and fabulous eyebrow lift, and my eyes look much more awake. I am 57 with hooded eyes, and this has really made a difference!”
Pros
- Contains four therapies in one tool
Cons
- Some consumers find the accompanying instructions hard to understand
Despite being roughly the size of a tube of mascara or classroom marker, this skincare device packs a powerful punch. It contains microcurrent technology to exercise facial muscles, red light therapy for fine lines and texture, as well as vibration and heat therapy for improved circulation and skin soothing. For just five minutes a day, this tool will allow your skincare ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin, in addition to the four therapies it contains.
What’s included: USB charger, manual of operation
How to use: Cleanse skin, apply water-based product across treatment areas, glide device from the center of the face outwards
Treatment time: 5 minutes
Saks Fifth Avenue rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Saks Fifth Avenue reviewer says: “I LOVE IT. I saw it on an Instagram ad, and I liked it from the beginning. I have been using it every day for over four months. I already see incredible improvements in my frown lines and neck wrinkles! I travel a lot and it is very easy to pack, very light, so I take it with me wherever I go. I recommend this wand to everyone who needs it.”
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Pros
- Easy to use
Cons
- Can be time-consuming
If you want to see full-proof results in your skin, you need to go purchase The Lyma Laser. This award-winning device is made to transform your skin in a matter of weeks and has a 10-year lifespan. The Lyma Laser is incredibly powerful and improves skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.
What’s included: The Lyma Laser, complimentary 30-day supply of the Lyma Oxygen mist and glide, authenticity card, charger, soft case, cleaning cloth
How to use: Apply Oxygen Mist and Oxygen Glide to treatment area, hold laser over treatment areas or glide device across treatment areas
Treatment time: Hold over treatment area for 3 minutes or glide over treatment area for at least 15 minutes
Neiman Marcus rating: 4.7/5 stars
A Neiman Marcus reviewer says: “[I’ve] been using the laser every day for three months and have seen fantastic results, with skin glowing and wrinkles a lot less visible. The best at-home beauty device I’ve ever used!”
Pros
- Wireless
Cons
- Sells out quickly
If you want to be sure to target skin tightening in your skincare routine, this device was made for you. The Aephro Radio Frequency Machine gives you an instant facelift and is paired with cooling technology to calm the skin.
What’s included: Aephro Microcurrent Facial Device, boosting gel, gua sha tool
How to use: Apply conductive gel, glide device across treatment areas
Treatment time: TK
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Wow, this thing is awesome! I’ve been using it for less than a month and I can’t believe how much my skin has improved. It’s like having a spa at home. It has six modes that do different things for your skin, like cleaning, moisturizing, tightening, and cooling, and each of them are great.”
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Pros
- Quick results
Cons
- Bulky for travel
If you want to improve your skincare, you should include this device in your beauty regimen. The MyoLift™ Mini Microcurrent Device shows results in as little as one week. After two weeks, your skin will have an overall glow, a reduction in crow’s feet, and a minimization of redness.
What’s included: MyoLift Mini Device, 4oz Restore Gel, Applicator Probes, Charger, Lead Wires
How to use: Cleanse face, apply conducive gel, glide device across jawline, cheekbones, and other treatment areas
Treatment time: 15 minutes
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “As an esthetician, I have worked with numerous skin care devices, but the MyoLift Mini has truly impressed me. Recommended by several colleagues, I decided to incorporate it into my practice and have seen remarkable results, especially with marionette lines and around the eyes. One of the standout features of the MyoLift Mini is how quickly it delivers visible results. My clients, and even I, have noticed a significant improvement in skin firmness and reduction of fine lines after just a few sessions. The marionette lines soften, and the delicate skin around the eyes looks more youthful and lifted. I use the MyoLift Mini both professionally and personally. My clients appreciate the gentle, non-invasive approach and are thrilled with the results. The device is easy to use, and its compact size makes it perfect for at-home treatments as well.”
Pros
- Comes with multiple wands that help target specific facial areas
Cons
- Glass components are delicate
This NuDerma High Frequency Wand set includes six therapy wands designed to target specific areas of the face that you feel need some TLC. This device uses the power of Argon and Neon to enhance overall skin appearance.
What’s Included: 1 NuDerma Professional High Frequency Handle, neon-powered mushroom wand, neon-powered Y-shape wand, neon-powered comb wand with Tungsten, argon-powered tongue wand, argon-powered bent wand, argon-powered rod wand with Tungsten, quick-start treatment guides, instruction and support contact manual.
How to use: Apply serum of choice, slide across face for up to two minutes, twice a week
Treatment time: Two minutes
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Since incorporating the NuDerma Wand into my daily skincare routine, I’ve noticed a significant enhancement in my skin's tightness and overall clarity. The device's promise to boost the skin’s appearance isn't just marketing fluff; it’s a reality that I’ve experienced firsthand. The application process itself is soothing, and with each use, I feel as though I’m treating my skin to a professional spa service right at home.”
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Meet the Experts
Dr. Karan Lal is the director of cosmetic surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Tera Peterson is the co-founder of NuFACE and a microcurrent esthetician.
What do microcurrents do?
“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.”
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Are microcurrent devices safe?
“They are safe, but remember they are causing electricity to move through your skin. For this reason, patients with epilepsy, pacemakers, defibrillators, and/or other implantable devices [should] 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.”
Do the results last forever?
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. However, all non-invasive options in the office also provide temporary results, so maintenance treatments are required over time. Oftentimes, I’ll recommend in-office procedures to kick start and then recommend microcurrent devices to maintain results.”
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Why Trust Elle Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Carol Lee and Tori Polizzotto spoke with a trusted doctor and an esthetician about microcurrent devices, and ELLE.com editors tested some themselves. Lee also searched the internet for the top-rated microcurrent devices, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
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Tori Polizzotto
Tori Polizzotto is an executive assistant & writer at Hearst Magazines. She grew up in NYC as a competitive dancer and later graduated with a B.S. in Fashion Media from the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising. Tori still remembers the first time she ever read a magazine, and how it sparked her love for journalism. When she’s not writing, she’s usually falling down a TikTok rabbit hole, eating pizza, and binging reruns of Sex & The City. Follow her on Instagram!
Carol Lee
Carol Lee is the Associate Beauty E-Commerce Writer at ELLE.com, where she covers all things beauty and personal care. Before joining the team, she was an editor at Food Network Magazine and HGTV Magazine and ran the beauty section at The Pioneer Woman. Carol received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from New York University and was one of the first customers to visit Glossier’s flagship store in New York’s Soho neighborhood. Over the years, she’s tested countless makeup, hair, and skin care products, and written hundreds of articles covering the beauty space, from pieces about the trendiest launches to roundups of the best products on the market. As a Korean-American, she grew up in a sea of Korean makeup and skin care products and is a bona fide expert on the ever-expanding world of K-beauty, helping lead our coverage. Additionally, she’s also always on the hunt for the perfect lipstick and watches the same few comfort sitcoms (Frasier, Cheers, Seinfeld, New Girl, etc.) over and over again.