Microcurrent treatments are popular non-invasive cosmetic treatments that use low-level electrical currents to stimulate the muscles beneath the skin's surface. This process promotes the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which drives cellular energy and promotes collagen and elastin production, key components for maintaining skin's elasticity and firmness. By effectively toning and lifting the facial muscles, microcurrent therapy can lead to visible improvements in the facial contour, reduction of wrinkles, and overall facial rejuvenation.
Often referred to as a "facial toning" or "non-surgical facelift," NuFACE® Microcurrent Facials are lauded for their anti-aging results without the need for invasive procedures or downtime, making it a preferred choice of professional aestheticians and dermatologists.
Microcurrent Treatments require two key products: an FDA-cleared Microcurrent Device (like the MINI+ Smart Device or TRINITY+ Smart Device) and a Microcurrent Activator. Perhaps you’re wondering what a microcurrent activator does or why you need a Microcurrent Activator for your treatments. Keep reading to learn what makes microcurrent activators a must-have for your facial toning treatments to get the best results.
What Is an Activator?
An Activator is a skincare product designed for use alongside a microcurrent device. These products are specially formulated to conduct the electrical current from the device to skin and facial muscles, so you can experience the full benefits of your microcurrent facial. Activators are also typically made with ingredients that can deliver benefits designed to complement your microcurrent facial - like tightening, smoothing, and hydrating skin.
NuFACE Microcurrent Activators are unique, as they are FDA-Cleared to conduct microcurrent with your NuFACE Microcurrent Facial Toning Device. This means they have been rigorously tested to safely and effectively conduct microcurrent to your skin and facial muscles to provide you with real sculpting, toning, and lifting results. Each NuFACE Activator is formulated with IonPlex®, a proprietary blend of glacial water and ions that enhance conduction deep down to the facial muscles for transformative microcurrent results.
You may hear claims that other products - like water or aloe - can conduct microcurrent for treatments. While these might glide on the skin with your device and provide a nice massage sensation, they are not proven to conduct microcurrent and could nullify your treatment efforts.
To make the most out of every treatment, make sure you’re using a device and activator that are FDA-Cleared to be safe and effective.
What Are Microcurrent Treatments?
As mentioned previously, Microcurrent Treatments send gentle electrical currents to the skin and facial muscles to promote ATP production and provide a lifted, sculpted appearance to the face and neck. Microcurrent has been used for decades by professional aestheticians, and has been thoroughly researched to be safe and effective at toning the face without pain or downtime.
Some of the benefits of microcurrent facials include:
- Sculpting the face
- Toning the facial muscles for a lifted, toned appearance
- Temporarily encouraging blood flow to the treatment area
- Minimizing visible signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles
- Supporting lymphatic drainage
- Helping the skin feel more firm and supple
While microcurrent treatments started in the dermatologist’s office, portable devices are available for those looking to experience these benefits from home. However, it’s essential to research the device that you use carefully. Remember to always look for an FDA-cleared, clinically proven device. NuFACE shares their clinical results, so you can see what real device users experience and select a device that is proven to work safely and effectively.
What Activators Are Available at NuFACE?
The skincare experts at NuFACE have developed three FDA-Cleared Microcurrent Activators to suit each unique skin type. These clean, aesthetician-created skincare formulas effectively conduct microcurrent with IonPlex while delivering other skin-loving benefits long after your lift.
Aqua Gel Activator
NuFACE Aqua Gel Activator provides lightweight 24-hour hydration, ideal for sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin. This feather-light gel formula glides on the skin and conducts microcurrent with IonPlex, while locking in moisture with hyaluronic acid for plump, soft-looking skin.
Silk Créme Activator
Silk Créme Activator is a more hydrating, rich serum-creme formula that nourishes skin for up to 48 hours. This luxurious texture is ideal for dry, dehydrated, or mature skin as it contains hyaluronic acid and eight phyto-actives to help the skin feel firm and plump while addressing visible signs of aging. Just like Aqua Gel, Silk Creme is packed with IonPlex to power your microcurrent treatments.
FIX® Serum Activator
The FIX® Serum Activator contains IonPlex alongside a triple peptide complex to plump skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while instantly hydrating skin. Additionally, FIX Line Smoothing Serum contains light reflecting pigments which illuminate skin and help blur the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
How To Use Activators
So, how do you use an activator during a microcurrent facial? Here are a few steps to help you get started.
Step One: PREP
The first step in any skincare routine, especially a microcurrent facial, is cleaning the skin. Use an oil-free cleanser or a NuFACE Prep-N-Glow® Towelette to wipe away any makeup or buildup that may hinder your treatment. While any oil-free cleanser will work, Prep-N-Glow Towelettes also contain exfoliating ingredients to help further cleanse the skin and prepare it for treatment. This means they can even take the place of your exfoliating step.
Next, gently hydrate your skin by spraying a fine layer of NuFACE Supercharged IonPlex® Facial Mist. This facial mist contains hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and niacinamide to help your skin stay moisturized, supple-looking, and supported during treatment.
Step Two: Boost
Next, apply 3-5 drops of your favorite NuFACE Super Booster Serum and massage into clean, dry skin. You can combine serum formulas or select the one that best suits your skin needs - from tightening and brightening to reducing visible discoloration.
Step Three: ACTIVATE
Next, apply your favorite NuFACE Microcurrent Activator in a mask-like layer in sections as you lift. Applying a mask-like layer allows your device to glide over skin without pulling, and lets the skin-nourishing ingredients penetrate skin during your facial.
Step Four: LIFT
Next, turn on your device and place both spheres on the skin on your chosen treatment area. Perform glides and holds on the skin, upward and outward, to lift, sculpt and tone the face.
If you’re still looking for a microcurrent device, consider the NuFACE TRINITY+ Smart Device. This handheld microcurrent device comes with all the benefits of at-home microcurrent technology and connects to the NuFACE Smart App. The Smart App allows you to access exclusive treatment modes, receive expert treatment advice, track your progress with the Selfie Tracker, and even set custom treatment reminders.
Step Five: Finish Your Skincare Routine
Wrap up your facial by blotting off any leftover Activator or gently massaging into your skin until fully absorbed. Then, you can continue with your skincare routine as usual. Apply any oil-based serums and finish with a moisturizer tailored to your skin type.
Finally, if you’re doing your morning skincare routine, apply sunscreen. Sun damage can quickly age the skin and negate the benefits of your treatment, so it’s crucial to ensure you’re protecting against UV damage. Experts recommend at least 30 SPF, although you can go higher if you’d like.
The Bottom Line
Activators are skincare products specifically formulated to help conduct electrical currents emitted by a microcurrent skincare device. They also contain ingredients that can help enhance the benefits of your treatment. Using a NuFACE Microcurrent Activator is absolutely essential to your Microcurrent Treatment, as these FDA-Cleared skincare products are the only activators proven to conduct current safely and effectively for optimal results.
Sources:
Sunscreen FAQs | American Academy of Dermatology
Know Your Skin Type Before Choosing Skin Care Products | Cleveland Clinic
