When I was in high school, the NuFace sat firmly at the top of my holiday wishlist. Never mind that my face was full of collagen or that my skin-care routine consisted of Glossier cleanser and Lush’s Mask of Magnaminty, making the need for one of the best microcurrent devices minimal. I simply knew I wanted to chisel my baby face into something a little more Greek-goddess adjacent. Years later, the NuFace has more than stood the test of time, even as a wave of new microcurrent devices have entered the market with equal fanfare.
Vogue’s Favorite Microcurrent Devices:
Part of that enduring appeal comes down to what the technology can actually do. According to board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, M.D. microcurrent devices are popular for “their ability to help shape and tone the muscles in the face. Many people like to use them because they’re an efficient way to address puffiness and target facial definition.” Esthetician Madalaina Conti agrees, noting that “it’s a tried-and-true technology that’s relatively easy to use and can be easily incorporated into an existing routine.”
At their best, microcurrent devices offer one of the quickest ways to depuff skin and deliver a subtle, visible lift before a night out. Esthetician Elizabeth Grace Hand breaks down the science: “Microcurrent therapy technology delivers low-level electrical currents to tone and shape the muscles in the face. These currents mimic the body’s natural electrical impulses, improving muscle tone and firmness, and aiding ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production for enhanced collagen production.”
Because microcurrent tools tend to sit on the higher end of the price spectrum, we did the work of narrowing down the standouts. Ahead, five of the best microcurrent devices for the face and body, along with expert insights on how they work, when to expect results, and what to keep in mind when shopping.
In This Story
- What is microcurrent?
- Do microcurrent devices really work?
- Do dermatologists recommend microcurrent devices?
- What gels can be used with microcurrent?
- What to Look For in a Microcurrent Device
- What is the most effective microcurrent device?
- Is it possible to overdo microcurrent?
- How to Choose a Microcurrent Device
- How We Tested
- Meet the experts
Best Overall: NuFace Trinity
- Why We Love It: If it’s your first foray into microcurrent devices, this facial toning tool from NuFace is one of the most intuitive options for lifting, toning, and smoothing both the face and neck. Hand loves the NuFace because it’s adjustable, easy to use, and compact, making it ideal for both home use and travel. “I make gentle upward strokes on my skin for 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the target areas and specific NuFace routine,” she explains. It can be used all over the face and in areas where Botox isn’t suitable, like smile lines, the jawline, the forehead, and the area between the eyebrows (which, in our case, tends to reside in a tense, worried state). It’s safe for daily use, both morning and night, and can be paired with the NuFACE Smart App, which walks you through guided treatments based on your goals. For anyone feeling hesitant, it’s worth noting that the device is FDA-cleared and considered low-risk, meaning adverse effects are highly unlikely when used as directed. Not to mention, the technology is also available in a NuFace mini size if that suits your fancy.
- Editor’s Experience: “I’m at the stage of life where someone I know gets married every weekend, and one of my go-to pre-event rituals is using the NuFace. I’m not disciplined enough to use it daily, which means I’m missing out on its long-term smoothing benefits. That said, for a visibly lifted look before a big event, one quick session makes an immediate difference. It feels a little zappy, but in a ‘this is working’ way, not a ‘mom, I’m scared’ way. It also fits comfortably in the hand, doesn’t cause cramping, and is easy to maneuver around the face and neck.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Conductive Gel Included: Yes
- Specs: 335 microamps at highest intensity
- FDA-Cleared: Yes
- Treatment Modes: Three to five settings with intensity ranges of microcurrent
- How to Use It: Cleanse your face with an oil-free cleanser, then apply a few drops of one of the Super Booster serums (sold separately) onto your fingertips. Massage the serum into clean, dry skin until fully absorbed. Apply a mask-like layer of your chosen microcurrent activator in sections as you use the device.
| Love It | Leave It |
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| Portable, interchangeable attachments, high intensity while still safe | Requires consistent daily use to see long-term results |
Best for Facial Toning: ZIIP Nanocurrent and Microcurrent Device
- Why We Love It: To supplement in-studio microcurrent facials, esthetician Kate O’Grady recommends the Ziip Halo device to all of her clients. “I love this device because it utilizes dual wavelengths: microcurrent and nanocurrent. The microcurrent contracts the muscles, helping to lift and create definition on the face,” she explains. “Ziip’s nanocurrent technology penetrates deeper into the skin to stimulate ATP, which is cellular energy that promotes collagen and elastin production.” Vogue contributor Veronica Cristino wrote in her Ziip Halo review that “after two continuous months of use, the skin appears more toned, fresh, bright, and contoured—particularly around the jaw and nasolabial area.” Cristino added that “the basic treatment takes only three minutes and is easy to incorporate into your existing skin-care routine.” Plus, “it’s low effort, simply having to pass the tool over your face.” While it does come with a higher price tag, the device is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles and fine lines by 28%, boost plumpness and firmness by 27%, reduce acne by 44%, and improve skin tone by 13%.
- Editor’s Experience: “The Ziip was the first microcurrent device I ever tried, so it holds a special place in both my heart and my bathroom shelf. Some of the guided treatments are a bit of a time commitment, clocking in at around 20 minutes, which is why I don’t reach for it as often as I’d like. It’s also fairly app-dependent, which can be mildly annoying if you prefer to listen to a podcast or music during your skin-care routine (I have a short attention span). That said, if you have the time and enjoy a more ritualistic approach, it absolutely delivers, and you can see results after just one session.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Conductive Gel Included: Yes
- Specs: 50 Hz frequency, 900 nanoamps to 400 microamps power levels
- FDA-Cleared: Yes
- Treatment Modes: 26 unique combinations of waveform and intensity
- How to Use It: Apply four to eight pumps of Electric Complex Gel on clean, dry skin, then activate your device by touching the globes or using the Ziip app. After your facial treatment, wipe and safely store your device, rinse off any excess gel, and continue with your skin-care routine. For optimal results, use three to five times per week for at least six weeks, and remember to conduct a sensitivity test before initial use.
| Love It | Leave It |
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| Beginner-friendly, ergonomic design, personalized treatment options via the app | Conductive gel can add to the overall cost |
| The device is app-depended, which can limit multitasking |
Best Quick Treatment: Foreo Bear
- Why We Love It: If you’re strapped for time, this is the tool for you—and O’Grady agrees. For a quick lift, the Foreo Bear offers a two-minute treatment and is FDA-cleared with third-party clinical trials showing that 90% of users noticed visible results in just one week, while 98% reported skin that looked healthier and less puffy. By stimulating and toning the facial muscles, the device delivers noticeable lift with minimal effort. It is also travel-friendly, thanks to its USB-rechargeable design and up to 90 uses per charge, making it easy to use, even on vacation. “Users sensitive to microcurrent can easily use this device as it comes with 10 levels of microcurrent,” she says. “I also love that it has a silicone ergonomic design and a two-year warranty, which is rare in the skin-care device world.” Another bonus is the silicone surface, which is bacteria-resistant and waterproof, making the device especially easy to clean after each use.
- Conductive Gel Included: No
- Specs: 10 microcurrent levels, 90 treatments per USB charge
- FDA-Cleared: Yes
- Treatment Modes: 10 microcurrent levels
- How to Use It: Cleanse your face and neck thoroughly to remove any residue. Apply a conductive gel and massage until absorbed. Activate the microcurrent device by pressing the universal button. Adjust intensity levels with quick presses of the button. Lightly press the spheres to your face and glide the device as desired.
| Love It | Leave It |
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| Ultra-fast treatments, automatically adjusts intensity, easy to clean | App can be finicky at times |
Best With Multiple Modalities: Therabody TheraFace Pro
- Why We Love It: With eight unique modalities in one compact device, it’s almost impossible to dislike the TheraFace Pro. The microcurrent therapy head, in particular, provides gentle stimulation that feels amazing on the skin, helping to firm and plump while enhancing muscle definition and sculpting the face and neck (yes, it’s safe to use on the neck area). The best part is that you can customize the experience and follow up with one of the many attachments. Dr. Camp also praises its versatility. “It has both hot and cold rings which offer different benefits. The hot ring is great for increasing blood flow and improving skin radiance, while the cold ring is used for depuffing and soothing the skin,” he explains. Despite how much the device offers, it is surprisingly easy to use, especially with the Therabody app, which provides guided routines and step-by-step videos. The device is FDA-cleared and TSA-approved, so it can travel with you without issue. According to the clinical studies, 88% of users saw a decrease in wrinkles and age spots when using it once daily for at least three months. Consistency is key here, no shortcuts.
- Editor’s Experience: “It took me a minute to try this device because the number of attachments initially felt overwhelming. However, once I actually sat down and used it, I realized how intuitive it is. If you’re looking to truly level up your morning skin-care regimen, this is the ultimate multi-use gadget. You can start with microcurrent, then follow up with the massager or cooling head to address multiple concerns in one session.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Conductive Gel Included: Yes
- Specs: 3-mm amplitude, three speeds (1750, 2100, 2400 PPMs)
- FDA-Cleared: Yes
- Treatment Modes: Percussive facial therapy, microcurrent therapy, LED red light therapy, LED blue light therapy, LED red + infrared light therapy, and deep cleansing
- How to Use It: The device beeps once every 15 seconds during facial therapy (excluding percussive attachments) to signal moving to a new area. The middle ring button adjusts the intensity for microcurrent, LED therapy, and hot/cold rings. Always use the microcurrent attachment with the included conductive gel!
| Love It | Leave It |
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| Eight-in-one device, sleek design that doesn’t take up much space, easy to travel with | Some attachments are sold separately |
Best For Body: NuFace NuBody Body Toning Device
- Why We Love It: Our hack for maintaining a gym-toned look? The NuBody microcurrent device. According to Worden, it’s safe to use on areas like your arms, upper legs, buttocks, and stomach to help tone and firm. “Just five minutes in each area can yield noticeable results,” she says. It’s especially helpful for anyone who has lost weight quickly and is dealing with loose skin that exercise alone can’t address. The device is clinically-proven and FDA-cleared, and it’s gentle enough for regular use as long as you apply the conductive gel and follow the instructions. It’s larger than the NuFACE Trinity, so treatments are quicker than you might expect. Like the facial device, it also pairs with the NuFACE app for guided tutorials and routines. The brand suggests using the device five days a week for 60 days initially, followed by two to three sessions per week to maintain results.
- Conductive Gel Included: Yes
- Specs: 900 microamps at the highest intensity
- FDA-Cleared: Yes
- Treatment Modes: One treatment mode
- How to Use It: Cleanse and apply Aqua Gel Activator in a mask-like layer to one area. Glide the device over treated areas as directed, focusing longer on stubborn dimples for up to five minutes until the device automatically powers off. Massage any remaining activator into your skin.
| Love It | Leave It |
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| Quick treatments, designed for larger areas, gentle yet effective therapy | Does not address fat loss on its own |
Everything You Need to Know
What is microcurrent?
According to celebrity esthetician Ian Michael Crumm, microcurrent therapy involves delivering low-level electrical currents to the skin and underlying muscles. This process aims to increase circulation, promote collagen production, and tone muscles. Often used in facial treatments, microcurrent therapy helps improve skin tone, reduce wrinkles, and lift sagging skin. “Microcurrent aims to mimic the body’s natural electrical current, which can decline with age, to support cellular rejuvenation,” he explains.
Do microcurrent devices really work?
At-home microcurrent devices are easy to use, painless, and increasingly popular in both professional settings and personal-use settings. Crumm explains that they’re known to enhance muscle tone, boost collagen production, and improve circulation, contributing to a more youthful appearance.
However, according to board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, they may not deliver the same results as in-office treatments or injectables like neurotoxins and fillers. Results from these devices are typically more subtle and accumulate over time rather than being immediate or dramatic. “These devices are best considered as a complement to a comprehensive skin-care routine,” he adds.
Do dermatologists recommend microcurrent devices?
Some dermatologists recommend microcurrent therapy as part of a broader skin-care regimen, highlighting its noninvasive nature and minimal downtime. According to Camp, “microcurrent devices may be suitable for patients seeking an at-home beauty tool to tone facial muscles for a sculpted and defined appearance.” However, Crumm emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations, noting that results are typically modest and do not match those of more invasive procedures like facelifts.
What gels can be used with microcurrent?
“A conductive gel must be used with microcurrent devices to ensure the current is effectively delivered into the skin without causing irritation,” emphasizes Crumm. “These gels are water-based to conduct electricity. Without enough gel, the current can sit on top of the skin and cause zapping,” he adds. Popular options include gels specifically formulated for microcurrent devices, hyaluronic acid gels for added hydration, or aloe vera gels for their soothing properties. Hand personally recommends 100% pure aloe vera gel for its calming effect and ability to reduce redness.
What to Look For in a Microcurrent Device
Camp suggests considering microcurrent devices that offer additional built-in features, such as LED treatments, massage therapy, and optional attachments for treating specific areas, like the eye area. He emphasizes that these devices can be expensive, so it’s important to commit to regular use to ensure effectiveness. “Before making the purchase, think about your dedication to using the product consistently,” he advises.
What is the most effective microcurrent device?
According to Dr. Camp, the most effective microcurrent device is one with proven results. “When considering any device, it’s important to research the product, read reviews, and make sure it is FDA-cleared,” he says. Ultimately, the best option depends on your individual skin concerns. If you are targeting fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, or texture, Dr. Camp notes that choosing a microcurrent device with added red light therapy can be especially beneficial.
Is it possible to overdo microcurrent?
According to Conti, the answer is yes. She explains that microcurrent works much like exercise for the facial tissues. “Of course, this may vary slightly by device, but my rule of thumb is no more than once per day to avoid strain or fatigue.”
How to Choose a Microcurrent Device
Microcurrent Strength
Many of the devices worth investing in skew pricier, and that’s usually because they actually deliver clinically-effective microcurrent. A lot of cheaper options simply don’t have the power, testing, or FDA clearance needed to properly stimulate facial muscles.
Adjustable Intensity Levels
According to Dr. Camp, adjustable intensity settings are a priority. “Everyone’s skin and tolerance level is different, so it’s best to use a device that allows you to customize the intensity,” he explains. This is especially important for beginners or those with sensitive skin.
FDA-Clearance
With so many microcurrent devices on the market, Dr. Camp recommends prioritizing options that are FDA-cleared. This ensures the device has been evaluated for safety and efficacy, helping deliver more reliable results while minimizing risk.
Additional Features
Some devices offer built-in LED therapy, massage modes, or interchangeable attachments designed for targeted areas like the eyes, jawline, or body. Dr. Camp suggests considering these added features, especially if you want a more comprehensive treatment experience at home. He also notes that because microcurrent devices can be expensive, it’s important to commit to regular use to see meaningful results. “Before making the purchase, think about your dedication to using the product consistently,” he advises.
Ergonomics and Ease of Use
Since some treatments can be lengthy, it’s important to choose a device that feels comfortable in the hand and isn’t too heavy to hold against the face. “Most microcurrent devices are handheld making them comfortable to use, similar to using a gua shua or roller to depute,” says Dr. Camp.
Technology and Credibility
When it comes to microcurrent, credibility matters. “A good microcurrent device is one that has proven results,” says Dr. Camp. He recommends researching the device, reading reviews, and making sure it is FDA-cleared before purchasing. Conti echoes the importance of substance over hype. “Research, technology, ease of use, and results are what I look for,” she says, adding that the best device is ultimately the one you will actually use. “I love continuity and knowing clients are using the same technology at home as they receive in the studio. I also never recommend anything I haven’t tried myself.”
How We Tested
When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue’s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to celebrity estheticians—to gain professional acumen on the industry’s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.
As it relates to microcurrent devices, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: microcurrent strenght, intensity levels, additional modalities, FDA-clearance, ergonomics, and the skin-care concerns they address. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.
Meet the Experts
- Brendan Camp, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York.
- Elizabeth Grace Hand is an esthetician and founder of New York facial studio Ställe Studios.
- Ian Michael Crumm is a celebrity esthetician and cohost of the educational beauty podcast, Beauty Curious.
- Taylor Worden is an esthetician and founder of Taylor Worden Skin.
- Kate O’Grady is an esthetician based in Saratoga Springs, New York.
- Madalaina Conti is a New York City based esthetician and the founder of Madalaina Conti Synergistic Skincare.
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