At 33 years old, I'm proud to say that I have a pretty solid understanding of my skin and how to best maintain it. I've always had a very expressive face (thanks for passing on that trait, Dad), so baby Botox on my forehead, a seriously hydrating moisturizer, and a decent dose of retinol are all staples in my skincare arsenal. And while I'm at it mostly I accept and appreciate the lines and dips created by hyperactive eyebrows and a big, cheesy smile. I'm always looking for new ways to soften my smile lines and give my cheeks a little softness. So when I got the chance to try the NuFace Mini+ facial toning device, I jumped. Could using this coveted beauty tool for just five minutes a day actually help reduce and smooth cheek wrinkles? NuFace's smallest product (AhemThen buy the (cheapest) microcurrent device, get an expert's opinion on whether it's worth the hype, and get my personal opinion after using it for a month.
NuFace, Mini+ facial toning device from QVC — $241.00
colors: Midnight Black, Baby Blue, Sandy Rose
Comes with: Travel bag, charger, 3oz Aqua Gel Activator, application brush
everyone: Cordless—gives you two weeks of treatment on a full charge.
- Small size suitable for travel
- We charge 2 weeks of treatment fees.
- Instant firming and toning results
- The activator gel needs to be refilled.
- You will need to use it regularly for several months to see lasting results.
How does the NuFace Mini+ facial toning device work?
“NuFace is advertised as a toning device that uses microcurrent technology to firm and firm the skin of the face and neck with the ability to smooth wrinkles, contour cheeks, and lift eyebrows,” says Simran, founder and MBA. Dr. Sethi explains. He is the Medical Director of RenewMD Beauty & Wellness in Northern California.
How exactly does it work? According to Dr. Ashley Magovern, a dermatologist in Manhattan Beach, California, and founder of Manhattan Dermatology, microcurrent devices like the NuFace deliver low-level electrical currents to the skin to stimulate facial muscles. “The goal is to improve skin by tightening facial muscles, increasing blood circulation, and stimulating collagen production,” says Dr. Magovern.
You can use the NuFace, Mini+ facial toning device yourself or follow the guidance of the NuFace smart app to help you plan and schedule your treatment. And no matter how you use it, the wireless device can provide two weeks of treatment on a full charge.
How to use NuFace Mini+
Like other NuFace devices, the mini version is very easy to use. Again, it's wireless, so you can press and hold the power button to turn it on (you can't miss it; it's the only button on the device), then press it again to toggle between three intensity settings. After washing and drying your face, apply your brand of activating gel (which improves conductivity) and rub the electrodes against your neck, cheeks, and forehead. NuFace recommends completing three rounds with three swipes in each area for a total of nine swipes. Does this sound confusing? Do not worry. It's actually a lot simpler than you might think, and just like an electric toothbrush, the device vibrates and beeps when it's time to move on to the next swipe.
Applying activating gel may seem like a step you can skip, but it's actually very important. “Like the NuFace activating gel, we always recommend it to patients using at-home devices because the gel is the most effective conductor for microcurrents to reach the skin,” said Dr. Magovern. She also says you want to make sure your skin is completely clean before applying because oils or thick lotions can block the electrical current. “If there is any tingling that may occur, it may be a good idea to apply more gel activator to ensure the skin is fully prepared during treatment,” adds Dr. Magovern. And I can attest that when I use the device on dry skin, the tingling sensation is… kind of weird. For more information on this, check out the review below.
What are the advantages of NuFace?
“Although initially temporary, devices like NuFace can provide immediate results in a short period of time, from the comfort of your own home,” says Dr. Magovern. “You will experience a more sculpted and lifted appearance due to increased collagen production at the cellular level.”
However, NuFace, Dr. Sethi and Dr. Magovern all agree that dedicated use is absolutely necessary to truly benefit from a tool like this. “I generally recommend that patients use the device about five days a week, especially at first, to experience the most noticeable results,” says Dr. Magovern. And Dr. Sethi agrees: “It takes months of consistent use to see results, but if you have the discipline, it’s worth the investment,” she adds.
Who should (and shouldn't) try NuFace?
According to our experts and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, NuFace, Mini+ facial toning device is safe for use on all skin types and all skin tones. “This is an effective device and cannot damage the skin, regardless of skin color. It does not produce large amounts of heat, which can potentially worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones,” says Dr. Sethi. “that is “It is safe to use, but limit use to five minutes per day and be sure to apply a generous amount of massage gel when using the device to prevent excessive mechanical force that risks breaking down the skin barrier,” she continues.
Dr. Magovern adds that while the concept of electrical currents being introduced into the skin may sound intense, microcurrents can have quite a soothing effect on those suffering from inflammatory skin conditions such as acne or rosacea.
But both dermatologists say you should be especially careful if you have melasma or sensitive skin. “If you are using a home device, such as a microcurrent device, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before using on moles or other areas of concern. Spots such as moles or open acne sores may be more sensitive to the devices, so avoid using these devices. “It is recommended to avoid, if possible, local areas,” Dr. Magovern added, adding that those undergoing clinical skin treatments such as fillers or Botox are advised to avoid using the device on the day of the procedure.
Experience using NuFace Mini+ facial toning device
I started using the NuFace Mini+ about a month ago and did my best to stick to the recommended 5 minutes, 5 days a week (although I wasn't perfect). It was really easy to use, and the provided instructions were clear enough. As Dr. Magovern mentioned earlier, moles can be somewhat sensitive to microcurrent devices. I was a little surprised when I first used it because I have several large moles on my face. I didn't realize I had it on a high setting and the larger, fussier mole on my left cheek was tingling when a microcurrent passed over it. The first lesson I quickly learned was that I now avoid dots as much as I can as much as I swipe.
I won't say that the device is: comfortable It's definitely hassle-free to use (like gua sha) and it feels nice gliding along my cheeks and forehead. I don't like the feeling of applying activating gel, but one time I tried to use the NuFace without it, the current was rather stingy and surprised me a bit. The second lesson is to use sugar gels. Afterward, I dab it off and use Sunday Riley's Vitamin C Serum and Image Skincare's SPF Moisturizer.
Additionally, people with smaller faces like me may find the timer a bit long for the available skin space. I had to learn how to slip on the NuFace. really Each swipe moves slowly to synchronize with the timer. It's not a big deal, but it's something to be aware of!
Overall, I'd echo the experts' previous comments that NuFace provides very immediate results. I use the device on the medium setting, and immediately after using it, my cheeks felt plumper or more vibrant. (In fact, I recently saw a therapist right after using it and she told me about my glowing skin.) But the immediate benefits don't last for long. As experts note, lasting results require months of dedicated use. I guess I'll have to keep swiping to see if that's true. It's also worth noting that I don't think there's anything the larger (and more expensive) NuFace device can do than this little guy can't handle.
Where to Buy NuFace Mini+ Facial Toning Device
NuFace is sold from a number of suppliers, but I found some of the best deals at QVC, where you can find a starter kit (which includes the brand's activating gel, a brush, a cute travel bag, and a NuFace Mini+) for $9. Less than other sellers. It is also available for purchase on the Dermstore, Sephora, and NuFace websites. The device itself is available in a variety of colors, including black, baby blue, light pink, and dusty purple.
What else does it come with?
No matter where you purchase the NuFace Mini+, it comes with a power adapter. You also get a starting size of Aqua Activator Gel (with moisturizing hyaluronic acid) and an applicator brush. You can refill the gel through major beauty retailers like Dermstore.
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