GoKawiilThere are many ways to take care of your skin at home with proper skincare. However, if you want to try out certain tools, such as microcurrent devices, it can be tricky to determine if it's worth the investment. Influencers often claim they give you firmer, smoother skin and a more lifted look. At-home options from brands like NuFace, ZIIP and Therabody promise similar results, but they don't come cheap.
If you're thinking of getting an at-home microcurrent device, we consulted with dermatologists about how these work, what benefits you can realistically get from them and more. We also looked at how at-home tools compare against in-office treatments, so you can decide whether a microcurrent device is worth it or not.
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 skin care routine, but they work best for mild improvements and maintenance, rather than dramatic changes," Kopelman said. "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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