What is microcurrent technology?


July 30, 2021

By Matthew Pruitt

Are you noticing that your skin is aging – looking saggy and wrinkly? Have You considered cosmetic surgery only to be steered away after realizing surgery is kind of a big deal? With the potential for complications, pain, and extended recovery time, you think rejuvenated skin might not be worth the risks.


Enter microcurrent technology to save the day!

Microcurrent technology uses low-level electrical currents to tone, lift, and firm sagging facial muscles back to their original position and shape in a safe, painless, non-surgical, non-invasive procedure.

What is Microcurrent?

You may be thinking that the use of an electrical current on the face sounds crazy! However, it has been used for hundreds of years. The first documented account of electricity used to regenerate muscles was by a Swedish professor, Jean Jallabert, in 1748, who used a series of electric shocks (90-minute sessions over several months) to alleviate paralysis in the arm of a locksmith.


In 1980, Thomas W. Wing introduced a microcurrent instrument that effectively stimulated muscles in Bell’s Palsy and stroke patients with paralysis of the face, earning approval by the FDA.

In the early 1990s, microcurrent technology became a cosmetic procedure. Since then, it has begun to replace surgical procedures because of its non-invasive, safe, and pain-free nature with the added benefit of no recovery time. The microcurrent facial is one of the latest procedures in anti-aging protocols.

Still, to many, waves of electricity pulsing through their skin can seem quite scary. We might associate this electricity with that of a light bulb. However, the current is (micro) mild and mirrors the electrical current that your body generates on its own, making the treatment a soothing experience.

Micro-fact: It would take one million microcurrent machines to light a simple 40-watt light bulb!

How does microcurrent work?

A machine conducts mild electrical currents through probes placed on the face, stimulating the tissue between the probes. The probes work together to close the current and re-educate muscles by physically moving muscles into the desired position in a series to gain memory that maintains the new contour.

Youthful, radiant skin is just a microcurrent away!
In treating an injured or damaged area, the microcurrent restores the flow of energy that your tissues had lost, allowing them to heal and return to their former glory. When undergoing a microcurrent facial, your skin and facial muscles are stimulated, which further produces collagen and elastin – the skin’s main proteins essential to remain youthful and glowing. Production of these proteins naturally diminishes with age. Therefore this reproduction is highly beneficial in a quest for beautiful skin.

Studies have also found the microcurrent facial to generate the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). ATP transports energy within the body and, more specifically, provides the power for muscle contraction. The production of ATP accelerates the healing process that has been stimulated by the microcurrent, resulting in even better results!


What results does microcurrent produce?

  • Improve its health and appearance
  • Tighten and firm aging skin
  • Tone the muscles on the face and neck
  • Lift sagging eyebrows and jowls
  • It helps heal scars and blemishes
  • Reduce and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles
  • Stimulate the production of collagen and elastin
    Lymphatic drainage


Microcurrent is a celebrity favorite.


Microcurrent facials effectively give the face a more symmetrical appearance by stimulating one side of the face to match the other, resulting in defined cheekbones, a sculpted jawline, and refreshed eyes. The look generally appears more plump and toned.

There are rumors that it was Princess Diana’s beauty secret! Wow! With results like these, it’s no wonder these facials have become increasingly popular amongst celebrities—like JLO and Madonna.

Does microcurrent technology have other uses?


In addition to its cosmetic use, microcurrent technology has various applications. Medically, it rehabilitates face muscle in patients suffering from Bell’s Palsy and strokes and skin appearance in those with scarring, lymphoma, etc. Physical therapists commonly use it, especially in sports medicine, to help repair damaged or injured muscles.

Another medical application is pain relief. Microcurrent technology has been effective in relieving chronic pain when used on various parts of the body. Whether chronic back pain, arthritis, or carpal tunnel – microcurrent treatments can alleviate the pain! These treatments could eliminate the risk of drug side effects, dependability, and overdoses.

Is it safe for everyone?


Microcurrent facials are safe for skin young and aged; whether 20-year-old skin for prevention or 60-year-old skin to regain a youthful appearance. People who are not fit for undergoing treatment include a history of heart problems, epilepsy, thrombosis, high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or those who have implanted electrical devices. Pregnant women, people with skin diseases, or those who recently had facial surgery are also not suitable candidates for microcurrent treatment.

How do I get this treatment?

At Skin Bar NYC, microcurrent is one of our most popular services. Our microcurrent service is called the 4-D Facial , and it is available in our Clear Skin and Forever Young memberships. Single services are also available for purchase. 


Matthew Pruitt

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