Microcurrent facials are quickly picking up momentum in the beauty and aesthetics industry (and for good reason!). This non-invasive facial lifting and toning treatment has shown breathtaking anti-aging results time and time again but has also been known to improve acneic skin conditions, scarring reduction, and evening skin tone.
If you're getting ready to schedule a microcurrent facial with your esthetician, here are some things to keep in mind!
Skip the Retinol!
It is not recommend that you use retinol the night before a microcurrent treatment. This is because it will remain in the skin and when microcurrent is performed over the skin it pushes the Retinol in deeper. Retinol tends to irritate the skin and when it is driven deeper into the skin by microcurrent, it will cause more irritation after the treatment (usually the next day in the form of redness, puffiness, irritated skin).
It is also important not to use any type of chemical peel before a microcurrent treatment.
Microcurrent does not cause irritation on the skin, it is what is put on the skin "before" a treatment that can cause irritation.
This Won't Hurt a Bit!
Remember that True Microcurrent™ is sub-sensory and cannot cause a physical or visual contraction of the muscle. Twitching is a sign that you need to turn down the intensity. Twitching can cause a decrease in Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which is "the energetic currency of a cell, and it is required for the cell to perform work of any kind" (Science ABC, 2018). Twitching is also a sign of lactic acid build-up. Microcurrent treatments by estheticians using the right equipment and with the right knowledge should be relaxing.
Metallic Taste & Flashing Lights!
Some people experience a metallic taste in their mouth or the illusion of flashing lights. Both sensations are normal and not cause for concern. Microcurrent can stimulate the nerves governing taste and cause the metallic taste. This does not have anything to do with dental fillings or implants. And the perception of flashing lights is a common reaction because the current is stimulating the optic nerve.
Consistency is Key!
It's not unheard of to see visible results after a single treatment. However, it's important to keep in mind that microcurrent results are cumulative. For the best facial lifting and toning results, it is recommended that you schedule at least one treatment a month to maintain and increase the facial contouring results. Talk with your esthetician about the series of treatments they would recommend for your unique skin type, age, and other variables.
Take Before and After Photos!
This is the best way to track the benefits of microcurrent treatments is by taking a photo of your face prior to the treatment and after each facial. This will help you identify the facial muscles that are lifting the most and it will motivate you to stay committed to your anti-aging and skin care regimen.
Pat Yourself on the Back!
Getting a microcurrent treatment is one of the best things you can do for both preventative and corrective skincare. Like all the other muscles in our body, our facial muscles need to get a workout in to perform and feel their best. You're bound to leave your facial with healthier, happier skin!
Great article. A warning that should be included, though, is for those who have had cancerous lesions removed from areas that will receive microcurrent. Given that microcurrent stimulates cell growth and from what I have read, I believe a client should be cancer free for 6-12 months (depending on the type of cancer) before returning to microcurrent. What does your research show?