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True Microcurrent 101

by Natarsha Bimson

At Violet Hour Skin, we're PRO-aging and have the expertise to ensure that you can age as gracefully as possible with techniques, tools, and modalities that serve you and your skin in a healthy, holistic, and nurturing way. One of the best tools for this is microcurrent. Hands up if you've heard of microcurrent? This is the treatment that puts the power in power nap — in The Microcurrent Ritual, you can relax while we do the work. You'll leave lifted, toned, firmed, and snatched — it's even beneficial for keeping breakouts at bay.

How on Earth can something this relaxing be this powerful? Read on, we're about to get nerdy! 

 

What is Microcurrent?

Microcurrent is commonly described as ‘complete facial fitness’ or ‘a natural facelift’ — and for good reason! Since the 1980s, it has been used in the medical field to treat Bell’s Palsy and muscle paralysis, but was quickly adopted into the aesthetics industry as a non-invasive solution to revitalize aging skin. 

Here’s how true microcurrent works: An extremely low-voltage electrical current, that mimics our own body’s electrical currents, stimulates the facial muscles through prongs that your esthetician strategically glides over your face and neck. Contrary to popular belief, true microcurrent does not cause muscle contraction; instead, your skin therapist will turn down the microcurrent device if twitching occurs. As sessions progress and the facial muscles strengthen, you’ll be able to receive a higher current, which is why microcurrent has been dubbed as ‘facial fitness.’ Oh, but there’s more… 

The real magic of microcurrent lies in its ability to work on a cellular level — increasing ATP (cellular energy) in the skin cells, which allows them to function at a higher level in order to address a variety of skin concerns such as the loss of collagen and elastin, dullness, and even acne. 

Remember: If you’re experiencing muscle contraction, you’re using ATP vs. increasing it; therefore, you’ll have less collagen and elastin-building potential. 

 

The Treatment Process

At Violet Hour Skin, we begin our microcurrent facial with our signature jojoba oil cleanse, gentle enzyme exfoliation if necessary, and a final cleanse before applying a soothing skincare cocktail of conduction products to allow the aforementioned prongs to glide effortlessly across the skin — after all, we’re trying to prevent wrinkles, not cause them! 

Throughout the treatment, your skin therapist will slide and glide the prongs over your skin working to deliver ‘micro currents’ (hey, funny that!) to your facial muscles, if only working out your glutes was this easy! Our treatment utilizes tailored features programmed into our microcurrent device to promote circulation and lymphatic drainage as well as address various concerns such as wrinkles and sagging skin. 

Are you shocked to hear that one treatment can do all this? Okay, we admit that was a bad pun because the treatment itself does not actually deliver a ‘shock’ in the traditional (or painful) sense. While you may experience a slight tingling or fizzy sensation, a metallic taste in your mouth, & small flashes in your vision (optical strobing as the microcurrent interacts with the optical nerve, 100% safe), true microcurrent remains completely painless and even relaxing. Your skin therapist will end the treatment by removing the conduction cocktail and applying age defying O Cosmedics products to hydrate and nourish the skin. 


Is Microcurrent Right for You?

  • Are you experiencing sagging skin due to loss of collagen and elastin? (Hint: we begin to lose collagen at the age of 20!) 

  • Are you interested in taking preventative measures against the premature signs of aging? 

  • Is your complexion dull and in need of a pick-me-up? 

  • Do you have adult acne? 

  • Are you considering getting a little surgical or injectable assistance? Microcurrent may be a great alternative to the more invasive procedures - not to mention no pain and zero downtime! 

If you answered yes to one — or all — of the questions above, then you’re the ideal candidate to receive a microcurrent treatment at Violet Hour Skin! That said, some individuals, such as those who are pregnant, have a heart condition, or are undergoing treatment for cancer should avoid microcurrent and instead opt for any level of The Ritual found in our Studio Menu. 

Microcurrent may not be for you if:

  • You have an electrical implant device such as a pacemaker

  • You have Epilepsy or a history of seizures

  • You have active cancer

  • You’re pregnant - this is simply a precautionary measure

We advise you consult with your physician if:

  • You have a heart condition

  • You have Diabetes

  • You have had recent facial surgery


How to Prepare for Your Upcoming Microcurrent Ritual

So you’ve decided to take the plunge and book yourself in for a 75 minute Microcurrent Ritual — this is going to be life changing. Dramatics aside, you may be curious how to best prepare for your upcoming treatment to ensure potentially life changing results. 

First, microcurrent works best on hydrated, balanced skin. That said, we suggest spending the days leading up to your appointment treating your skin to some extra hydration; drink plenty of water, oil cleanse, apply your favorite hydrating serums and moisturizers, and maybe even indulge in It’s The Sheet Mask. Not only will your skin (and your esthetician) thank you for the much-needed hydration, but you’ll experience visible, longer-lasting results. 

While we suggest this treatment to clients looking for botox alternatives, microcurrent beautifully complements Botox by preventing your muscles from becoming atrophied. Since Botox is known to reduce the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, microcurrent works to promote the regeneration and strength of those fibers, acting as a preventive measure against long-term damage. If an upcoming Botox appointment is on your schedule, we suggest booking your microcurrent treatment at least 2-4 weeks after to allow your Botox to settle. 


Benefits of Microcurrent

If you’ve made it this far, you’ve learned the what, read about the who, and discovered the how — now let’s discuss the why. 

Microcurrent offers a variety of dramatic benefits such as:

  • A smooth complexion, free of fine lines and wrinkles

  • An overall lifted appearance, especially to the jowls and eyebrows

  • Improved circulation that offers oxygenating benefits that aid in the treatment of acne

  • Greater product penetration 

  • An even skin tone

  • Increased hydration

  • An increase in natural collagen and elastin production 

  • Optimal skin cell function 

We previously mentioned that microcurrent is advertised as a treatment that promises instantly tighter, firmer skin. And while that can be true, long-term results are cumulative; just like going to the gym, results take time and consistency. We highly suggest an initial course of 6-12 weekly treatments prior to monthly maintenance. 


Aftercare

While microcurrent is non-invasive, it is stimulating so proper aftercare is essential. We suggest taking a gentle approach to your skincare routine: use mild, hydrating products, avoid any harsh friction against your skin, avoid any active ingredients, and as always, apply SPF! For more thorough, individualized instructions, consult with your skin therapist. 

To experience the treatment and extensive benefits firsthand, click here to book The Microcurrent Ritual at Violet Hour Skin. For more skincare tips, studio announcements, and the occasional dose of esthetician humor, follow us on Instagram @violethourskin and subscribe to our newsletter!

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