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The Science of Microcurrent: 20 Years of Lifting & Toning

Before "lifting and toning" became part of the everyday skincare convo, NuFACE was already doing it. Whether you're curious about the science or just want to know why your favorite...

Before "lifting and toning" became part of the everyday skincare convo, NuFACE was already doing it. Whether you're curious about the science or just want to know why your favorite aesthetician swears by it, you're in the right place. Let’s break it all down—no lab coat required. 

 Let’s Set the Tone (Literally) 

Twenty years ago, NuFACE launched a skincare revolution—one gentle current at a time. What started as a passion project in our founders’ garage became a movement in modern beauty: safe, effective, clinically-backed microcurrent technology that tightens, tones, and transforms skin at home. 

It all began in Carol’s treatment room, where clients came looking for that firm, lifted, fresh-from-a-facial glow. As a licensed aesthetician, Carol knew microcurrent worked wonders—but not everyone could make it in for regular treatments. 

So she took matters (and microcurrent) into her own hands.  With a vision to bring spa-grade results home, Carol and her daughters built NuFACE from the ground up—literally, in their garage. 

Now? We’re the leaders in at-home facial lifting. But before we get into the movement, let’s break down the science behind that signature NuFACE lift. 

 What Is Microcurrent, Anyway? 

Think of microcurrent as your skin’s personal trainer—sending low-level electrical currents into your facial muscles to tone and contour, no sweat required. These tiny currents mimic your body’s own natural energy (ATP), helping: 

    • Firm and lift facial muscles 

    • Smooth fine lines and wrinkles 

    • Sculpt your cheekbones, jawline, and brows 

    • Lift brows and hooded lids for a wide-awake look 

    • Boost radiance by promoting circulation 

 Let’s Get a Little Sciencey 

So, what’s really happening beneath the surface? Microcurrent works by delivering low-level electrical impulses—we’re talking micro levels, as in millionths of an ampere—that mimic your body’s natural electrical signals. These signals help stimulate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—aka your skin’s cellular energy source. 

ATP fuels pretty much everything your skin needs to look and feel its best, from collagen synthesis to muscle re-education. Yes, your face has muscles too—and just like the ones in your body, they respond to consistent, targeted training. 

In simpler terms? More ATP = more lift, more tone, more glow. 

Microcurrent doesn't just skim the surface—it works beneath it, targeting the foundational layers of skin and muscle to help: 

    • Re-energize facial muscles 
    • Improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage 
    • Enhance product absorption for better skincare benefits 

All that... with a gentle current you can barely feel. 

 The Evolution of Microcurrent Tech 

Twenty years ago, microcurrent wasn’t exactly a household word—it was a secret weapon tucked inside top-tier spas and elite skincare clinics. But we had a different vision: what if everyone could lift, tone, and contour on their own terms, without stepping foot in a treatment room? 

After years of hands-on experience in the treatment room, they knew exactly what worked—and what clients needed most. Inspired by those personal, transformative results, they set out to make microcurrent more accessible for everyone. 

That dream turned into reality with the launch of our very first handheld device- and we’ve been leveling up ever since. 

From a single powerhouse tool to a full suite of smart, sculpting devices, here’s how we’ve pushed microcurrent forward: 

The Classic: Our OG Trinity device brought toning into the palm of your hand, putting microcurrent on the map for skincare lovers everywhere. Engineered with three attachments including microcurrent and red light for total skin transformation. 

The Mini Moment: Same sculpting power, smaller size. Perfect for travel, beginners, or anyone who likes their glow on-the-go. 

FIX Classic: Small but seriously mighty. FIX Classic was our first pen-sized microcurrent device, made for quick touch-ups and targeted treatments. Designed to smooth fine lines, plump lips, and revive tired under eyes in just minutes, it became the go-to for on-the-go glow.

NuBODY: We took our signature microcurrent magic beyond the face—and created the first FDA-cleared device for the body. NuBODY was designed to target larger areas like the arms, abs, thighs, and booty with 4 treatment spheres that deliver gentle, effective microcurrent to visibly tone, firm, and smooth skin. 

MINI+ Gets Smarter: Our most advanced MINI yet. Same travel-friendly size, now with three customizable microcurrent depths, a soft-touch finish, and Smart App connectivity. Water-resistant and ready to sculpt whenever you are. 

TRINITY+ Upgrade: Meet our smartest device yet. Bluetooth-enabled, app-connected, and compatible with upgraded, magnetic LED red light and microcurrent attachments for effortless targeted treatments (hello, lip + eye contouring).

Smart Skincare: IonPlex® is our signature electrolyte blend of minerals and ions, designed to boost microcurrent conductivity and deliver deep hydration where your skin needs it most. Translation: better glide, better absorption, better results. 

Think of it as the perfect sidekick to your device—amplifying the current, energizing your skin, and helping every contouring session work even harder. Find it in our Power Patches, which visibly brighten, tighten, and hydrate under eyes in just minutes, to our Boosters and Activators, which prep and energize skin with microcurrent-activating ingredients—this is smart skincare that takes your results to the next level. 

FIX MicroWand: The next-gen FIX. FIX MicroWand takes everything you loved about the original and levels it up with more power, quicker treatments, and built-in modes for eyes, lips, and expression lines. This smart, sleek device was built for precision and ease, with advanced microcurrent tech that visibly smooths, plumps and depuffs in record time. 

Smart App Integration: Personalized treatment plans, guided tutorials, and a built-in progress tracker—for a data-driven sculpting routine.

 The Future of Microcurrent 

Two decades in, and we’re just getting started. As we continue to evolve, one thing stays the same: our commitment to giving you the tools to feel confident in your skin—today and for years to come.

 

Sources:

Physiological effects of microcurrent and its application for maximizing acute responses and chronic adaptations to exercise  

[Muscular aging and its involvement in facial aging: the Face Recurve concept] 

Why does skin wrinkle with age? What is the best way to slow or prevent this process? | Scientific American 

Effects of electrical stimulation on skin surface|PubMed  

 

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