My Step-By-Step Microcurrent Device Routine
You have probably caught on to the fact that I love a good beauty device. While there are a few I love and use when I can, there are really only two devices I use almost everyday: my LED mask and my microcurrent device. While the use of LED is relatively self explanatory, I find microcurrent to be a little more nuanced. After using my device pretty much everyday (I also got so many good tips from Tera Peterson, herself during our podcast interview), I wanted to share with you the exact step-by-step routine I use for microcurrent-ing.
What is a Microcurrent Device?
For those of you not familiar with microcurrent, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. I actually have an entire blog comparing three popular microcurrent devices that I use on repeat and getting into the nitty gritty of microcurrent. For now, let’s focus on the basics.
Microcurrent devices deliver very small electrical currents that mimic your body’s natural signals. These currents stimulate your facial muscles, promoting a more toned and lifted appearance. They’re gentle, non-invasive, and safe to use at home. Most people of course use the device with hopes of targeting fine lines, sagging skin, or simply wanting a sharper jawline.
Preparing for Treatment
Now that we have gone in on the WHY, let’s get to the tutorial! I also should note that I always use my device in the morning to indulge in the immediate lift it provides. Here’s how I prep:
Cleanse Your Skin: Start with a cleanse using your favorite cleanser (I have been loving this one from Skinfix recently) to ensure the device’s currents can penetrate effectively. You don’t want any oil or leftover product on the skin that could block the device’s current.
Apply Gel Primer: This step is crucial. Each device will come with a gel primer. Microcurrent is gentle electrical current that needs a conductor to travel through for optimal results. I find people get a little obsessive about finding dupes for these gels because they don’t like them and many people tout using other serums as “conductors”, but other serums will not conduct current in the same manner if at all. If you’re investing in a microcurrent device, you want it to work, so just use the conductor gels! I will say I have used the activators from all the major microcurrent brands and the nuface gel is my favorite. That being said, I always rinse it (you don’t have to) as it tends to make my skin a bit sensitive when I leave it on. I personally apply the gel using the brush to each area right before using the device, which helps avoid uneven application.
According to Tera: “while you can’t use other serums or products in place of your activator, you can use your oil-free serums before applying activator and lifting; save any oil-based formulas for after your lift or [on off days] as oil will impede the flow of microcurrent.”
Step-by-Step Tutorial
For this tutorial, I’ll be using the NuFACE device. This post is not sponsored, this is simply the device I reach for most. But again I have used the 3 most popular devices and each have a place. Each device comes with an easy to use app as well so you can follow along with that!
Step 1: Turn on the device
Step 2: Choose Your Setting: As you press the start button, you will notice there are three intensity levels, allowing you to customize your treatment based on your comfort:
Low Setting: Ideal for beginners or those with sensitive skin.
Medium Setting: Great for daily use once you’re accustomed to the device.
High Setting: Perfect for those who are experienced with microcurrent treatments or want maximum intensity.
The Nuface specifically also has a “BOOSTER” button which I use with each treatment.
Step 3: Begin treatment. To make it simple, I will divide the areas into upper jaw/cheek region, and then forehead.
Upper Jaw/Cheeks Glides:
With both spheres of the device touching the lower cheek and upper jaw area, glide upward and wait for the beep (you're going to notice that “wait for the beep” is a big theme in this tutorial). Ideally you should be moving slowly from your start to end point gradually reaching the “beep” at the end point. In other words, don’t swipe quickly to your end point then hold until the beep sounds, work slowly.
Move to the middle cheek, glide upward, and wait for the beep.
Glide from the upper cheek/lower eye area upward and wait for the beep.
Repeat this sequence 3 times.
2. Upper Jaw/Cheeks Holds:
Shift the device to lay flat, starting at the lower cheekbone near the mouth. Gentle lift the skin with the device. Hold still and wait for the beep
Move laterally, closer to the ear. Hold still and wait for the beep.
Move to the middle of the cheekbone, gently lift, hold still, and wait for the beep.
Shift closer to the temple, gently lift, hold still, and wait for the beep.
Turn the device back to its side. Position it between the cheekbone and jawline, gently lift, hold still, and wait for the beep.
Move closer to the upper cheekbone, gently lift, hold still, and wait for the beep.
Forehead: Divide the forehead into two halves and work on one half at a time.
Start at the center of the forehead and glide upward, wait for the beep.
Move slightly to the side and glide upward again, wait for the beep.
Move to the area near the hairline, glide upward, and wait for the beep.
Repeat this sequence 3 times. Then switch to the opposite side of the forehead and repeat the process.
Aftercare Tips
After finishing, I rinse off the gel and continue with my skincare routine. Some people like to leave the gel on, but I prefer to cleanse it off and apply the rest of my morning skin routine to fresh skin. So if you’re like me, simply rinse off the gel primer and follow up with your regular skincare routine. This is roughly what mine looks like!
Pro Tip: Just like anything else, to see the best results, consistency is crucial. I recommend starting with 4-5 sessions per week for the first three months. Once you’ve established a routine, you can reduce the frequency if you prefer.
Final Facts
Do I really need the gel primer?
Yes! The primer ensures the current is delivered effectively and prevents discomfort. Without it, you might feel sparks instead of a smooth glide and most importantly may not be getting an effective treatment.
What if I miss a session?
Don’t stress. Just pick up where you left off and aim for consistency going forward!
Why do I feel tingling?
This usually means you need more gel. Apply a thicker layer and try again.
I hope this provides some help when using your microcurrent device! If you are liking these step-by-step tutorials, make sure to take a peek at my Dyson one! Let me know what you want to read on the blog next!
**Disclaimer: This post does not constitute medical device. Please speak to your Dermatology provider before adding any at home procedures or products into your routine!
