If you've spent any amount of time scrolling through skin care content, you have probably seen microcurrent devices pop up again and again. Influencers often credit them with everything from firmer skin and sharper facial contours to smoother texture and a more lifted look. At-home options from brands like NuFace, ZIIP and Therabody promise similar results, but they come with price tags that can easily run into the hundreds.
So are these devices actually worth the investment? To get a clearer answer, we spoke with dermatologists about how microcurrent technology works, what benefits it can realistically deliver and where its limits are. We also looked at how at-home tools stack up against in-office treatments, so you can decide whether a microcurrent device makes sense for your routine or if your money is better spent elsewhere.
Do microcurrent devices work?
At-home microcurrent devices aren't cheap -- costing hundreds of dollars. If you're thinking about investing in one, you might be wondering whether they actually work. What do the experts say?
"Yes, at-home microcurrent devices can provide noticeable benefits, though they're generally less powerful than professional-grade treatments," said Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery. "These devices deliver low-level electrical currents designed to stimulate facial muscles and boost circulation. Over time, this can create a temporary lifting effect and provide mild improvement in skin tone."
While the effectiveness of at-home microcurrent devices hasn't been thoroughly tested, some research studies show that they can provide real results. In a 2024 study, 56 people were instructed to use the Slendertone Face microcurrent device and 52 people were placed in a control group. After using the Slendertone Face device five days per week for 12 weeks, participants reported significantly better skin tone, radiance and fewer wrinkles compared to the control group.
But before you start using an at-home microcurrent device, it's important to set realistic expectations.
"At-home microcurrent devices can be a beneficial part of your skincare routine, but they work best for mild improvements and maintenance, rather than dramatic changes," said Kopelman. "For individuals looking for more immediate or pronounced results, professional treatments remain the gold standard."
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Wellness editor Anna Gragert's results using the NuFace Trinity Plus, before, during and after. Anna Gragert/CNET
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