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If there are two things you need to know about me, it’s these: I’ll always remind you to wear sunscreen and I’ll rave about the benefits of microcurrent devices — sometimes in that order! You see, after more than two decades of exploring the ins and outs of microcurrent facials and the evolving product lines that make them possible, I’m a major microcurrent advocate.
So, I’ll also be the first person to tell you that not all microcurrent devices are made equal. With 24 years spent in the studio as a licensed master esthetician and just as much time spent at home experimenting with my own skincare, I’ve finally found the ultimate hero when it comes to popular compact microcurrent devices. Now, let’s get current with the best microcurrent tools!
I often refer to a microcurrent facial as a “facelift without the surgery.” The beauty of microcurrent is that it contains no needles, no lasers, and no recovery time, but offers a haul of skin-tightening and toning benefits that you’d expect with more invasive treatments. Microcurrent devices achieve these results by emitting a mild electrical current between two probes that are pressed against the skin.
The current — referred to as microcurrent, where these devices get their names — is similar to the bioelectric current already running through the body. When applied to the skin, it stimulates adenosine triphosphate (ATP) activity at the cellular level. ATP not only strengthens muscles for a toner, more contoured face but also boosts collagen production for plumper-looking skin.
If you’re anything like me, a self-proclaimed skincare fanatic, you’re probably subscribed to several esthetician YouTube channels and follow similar accounts on social media. In that case, you’ve likely seen a spike in the number of compact microcurrent devices coming across your feed. I’m in the same boat, so I recently hopped on my YouTube channel to compare at-home microcurrent devices.
Take a look at the compact microcurrent device that emerged as the one true hero!
There’s a very good reason why the FOREO BEAR 2 microcurrent device is so popular — 10 good reasons, actually! The FOREO BEAR 2 has the most levels of intensity of any device I’ve tried (and I’ve tried dozens). Intensity and frequency are essential to microcurrent effectiveness, with varying currents working to better re-educate and tone facial muscles, as well as to ensure the muscles don’t acclimate.
Think of a microcurrent facial as a full-body workout, but for your face muscles. By acclimate, I mean that your face muscles can adjust to a constant frequency—similar to how your body can adjust to the same workout over time—meaning you won’t get the best results. With four frequencies, 10 levels of intensity, and guided facials through the FOREO app, this microcurrent device is the hero product for at-home skincare.
One feature the Bear 2 offers that I love is the biomechanical vibration. This vibration has 5 different settings from lymph drainage to tapotement (drumming massage that feels devine). I find this vibration in addition to the microcurrent offers a way to combat a slowing micro circulation. (Micro circulation is the blood circulation that goes to the very top of our skin. This declines with age, making skin dull and dry.) My point is microcurrent plus vibration massage equals amazing results.
If you’ve been subscribed to my channel, you’ve likely heard me rave about the Clareblend Mini for years now. Compared to the FOREO BEAR 2, the Clareblend Mini cycles through hundreds of frequencies while working with it. However, it’s important to note that these frequencies are variable, meaning the device will switch between frequency modulations at random to avoid muscle fatigue and eventual acclimation.
Another reason why I recommend the Clareblend Mini is that it’s incredibly simple for beginners. You plug it in and go, that’s it! Bear in mind, though, that the ClareBlend Mini is not cord-free. Plus, it doesn’t offer a mobile app to guide your facials. Fortunately, you can head over to my Facial Massage Lift Techniques playlist to learn some esthetician-approved tips for using your device at home!
Like the Clareblend Mini, the ZIIP Halo microcurrent device offers just one microcurrent frequency. Though not an adjustable or variable currency, the ZIIP Halo emits a combination of microcurrent and nanocurrent, an even lower-level energy current, to stimulate turnover at the cellular level. Likewise, the device will activate varying intensities through certain in-app treatments.
Up next in the battle of handheld microcurrent devices is the MyoLift QT Plus. Aside from a cute name, the MyoLift QT Plus offers two microcurrent frequencies, giving it an edge compared to tools like the ZIIP Halo. It also comes equipped with mobile app compatibility, so new users have an easier time deciphering which frequency to use, for how long, and where on the face.
A major drawback to point out about the MyoLift QT Plus is that it’s missing an Anti-Shock System. As a matter of fact, every device on this list is missing an Anti-Shock System aside from the FOREO BEAR 2. So, what’s an Anti-Shock System? As the name might suggest, this feature prevents a spike in the device’s voltage that results in a zapping (referred to as “sparking”) sensation to the face.
Last, but certainly not least, is the NuFace Trinity. Launched nearly 20 years ago, I can remember this device hitting the market around the same time I was building my esthetician career. While my personal skill set has expanded astronomically in the following decades, I can’t say the same for the NuFace Trinity. On the contrary, it’s remained largely unchanged over the past 20 years!
The NuFace Trinity offers three microcurrent frequencies, but it runs on a higher voltage of 400 microamps with no variation. What this means is that it’s more likely for your facial muscles to acclimate to the NuFace with continued use. Not to mention, the higher the voltage, the higher the likelihood of an unpleasant zap… and the NuFace does not include an Anti-Shock System.
Microcurrent is by far one of the best nonsurgical facial treatments, but that doesn’t mean that I advise my clients to jump right on the bandwagon without doing a bit of research first. Luckily, that’s what I’m here for! Take a look at the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about microcurrent devices, so you can be sure you’re using the optimal tool for your skin goals.
My short answer to this question is, “What isn’t one of microcurrent’s benefits?” However, a more realistic answer to the many benefits of microcurrent is:
I’m happy to report that microcurrent is considered a safe, non-invasive treatment with few side effects. However, there are still some microcurrent side effects to be wary of, namely that zapping sensation I mentioned earlier. One of my PRO Tips is to remain in a microcurrent range of 500 microamps or less, which can help avoid zapping the muscles and causing muscle fatigue.
Yes, your skin should be very well-hydrated for a microcurrent facial! For one, you must use a microcurrent device with a conducting serum, like the CBE Botanicals Hydrate + Conduct Gel & Mask, to protect the skin. Secondly, it’s vital to know that dry and dehydrated skin will not carry a microcurrent, and instead will create itchiness and uneven skin tone, and can even worsen fine lines.
PRO Tip: Check out my channel for tips on what to avoid with microcurrent devices!
There’s an entire world of microcurrent devices out there for you to explore — isn’t it time you get in on the fun? Just think, everything from a smoother complexion to a tighter jawline awaits with microcurrent. Even better, the Christine Byer Beauty Club is here to support you each step of the way! Sign up today for personalized support and exclusive savings on your skincare journey.
Trying to keep our skin healthy and glowing is a lifelong process. It protects us, shields us, and defines us in a lot of ways! But every layer of the skin acts as our armor in a different way. On the very top, we all have a "skin barrier" that requires its own care for long-term health.
