NuFace is a line of at-home devices that emit microcurrents, to improve facial contours and skin firmness.
This extremely low-voltage (and painless) electricity is intended to rejuvenate skin in two ways, one that produces cumulative benefits and another that yields more immediate results:
- It boosts the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy-carrying molecule found in the cells of all living things, by as much as 500%, according to one study performed on animals. ATP drives the creation of key structural proteins, such as skin-firming collagen and elastin, slowly over time.
- The increased ATP stimulates facial musclesâsimilarly to how exercise energizes the muscles of our bodies, according to the manufacturer. Since the facial muscles are directly connected to the skin, the result is an instant tightening and lifting effect that lasts three to four hours. The company calls the treatment the â5-Minute Facial-Lift.âÂ
Some experts say the results are subtle, at best. âNuFace and other nonsurgical microcurrent devices may create a temporary appearance of âlifting,â often by causing temporary swelling,â says Dr. Brian Coan, a plastic surgeon in Cary, North Carolina. âThese devices donât provide the long-term results that fillers like Sculptra or a surgical facelift can offer.â
Nashville dermatologic surgeon Dr. Michael Gold concurs. âMicrocurrents probably have a minimal effect on the skin and even less of an effect on the collagen under the skin. While these are used quite commonly in spas, we know that if you need collagen stimulation or enhancement, something more significant will be needed.â